Embarking on a career or passion in maritime activities often begins with the right credentials. For those aspiring to captain smaller vessels carrying passengers, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) license, often called the Six-Pack Captain’s License, is your essential first step. This license empowers you to operate uninspected vessels up to 100 gross tons – typically vessels ranging from 75 to 90 feet – carrying up to six paying passengers. Think charter fishing expeditions, SCUBA diving trips, or scenic tour cruises; these are the realms of the Six-Pack Captain. Let’s navigate the types of OUPV licenses and how Mariners Learning can guide you through the process.
Decoding the Types of OUPV Licenses: Tailoring Your License to Your Waters
The OUPV/Six-Pack Captain’s License isn’t a one-size-fits-all credential. It comes in three distinct forms, each tailored to specific operational areas based on your documented boating experience. Regardless of the type you choose, mariners learning resources and online courses provide a consistent and comprehensive preparation for your examination.
OUPV Inland License: Mastering Inland Waterways
If your maritime aspirations are focused on rivers, bays, and shorelines (excluding the Great Lakes), the OUPV Inland License is your target. This license restricts operations to shoreward of the designated boundary line.
- Experience Requirement: A minimum of 360 days of documented experience operating vessels is required, with at least 90 of those days occurring within the last three years.
- Upgrade Path: The Inland License is a stepping stone. By accumulating 90 days of experience seaward of the U.S. Boundary Line, you can upgrade to the more versatile Near Coastal License.
OUPV Great Lakes & Inland: Conquering the Great Lakes and Beyond
For those drawn to the majestic Great Lakes in addition to inland waterways, the OUPV Great Lakes & Inland License is the ideal choice. This license expands your operational area to include the Great Lakes while still covering inland waters.
- Experience Requirement: This license demands 360 days of documented vessel operation experience, with a crucial 90 days specifically on the Great Lakes. Furthermore, 90 of the total 360 days must be within the last three years.
OUPV Near Coastal: Expanding Your Horizons to the Open Sea
For captains seeking broader horizons, venturing beyond inland waters and up to 100 nautical miles offshore, the OUPV Near Coastal License is the ultimate goal. This license grants access to U.S. inland waterways and extends your reach to near coastal zones.
- Experience Requirement: Achieving this license requires 360 days of documented experience operating vessels, with at least 90 days gained seaward of the boundary line. Similar to the other licenses, 90 of the 360 days must be recent, within the last three years.
Important Note on Sea Service: Your qualifying experience isn’t limited to commercial vessels. Time spent operating your own boat counts as sea service. You’ll need to provide a Small Vessel Sea Service Form and proof of ownership. Experience on other vessels is also valid, requiring a Sea Service Form signed by the vessel owner to verify your claimed experience and vessel details. Remember, experience gained before the age of 16 cannot be counted.
Beyond Sea Service: Essential Additional Requirements
Obtaining your OUPV license involves more than just logging sea days. Here are the additional prerequisites:
- Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC Card): Security is paramount in maritime operations. A TWIC card is a mandatory requirement.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old and legally authorized to work in the U.S.
- Physical Fitness: Passing a physical examination ensures you meet the health standards for operating vessels.
- Drug Testing: A DOT drug test is required unless you are already enrolled in a USCG-approved random drug testing program for the past 185 days with a clean record.
- CPR and First Aid Certification: Adult CPR/Basic First Aid training is essential for passenger safety.
- Mariners Learning System™ Course Completion: Successful completion of a USCG-approved OUPV/Six-Pack online course, like those offered by mariners learning, and passing the final exam are mandatory.
- USCG Application Package: You must complete and submit a USCG Original License Application Package.
Streamlined Testing Process with Mariners Learning System™: Forget about traveling to USCG Regional Exam Centers. Mariners learning simplifies the process. All testing is conducted ONLINE through your MLS account, offering convenience and flexibility.
Upon successfully navigating the Mariners Learning System™ online OUPV/Six-Pack captain’s license course and exam, you’ll receive a certificate recognized by the United States Coast Guard. Within one year of receiving this certificate, submit it along with your application package and fees to the USCG Regional Exam Center. Once your application is approved, your coveted captain’s license will be mailed to you, setting sail on your maritime adventures.
