Do I Need a TWIC to Renew My MMC?

No. You do not need a TWIC to renew your USCG License. But, if you need it for work, then you need one for work. If you don't need a TWIC for work then you should not waste your money on renewing!

How do I know if I need a TWIC?

If the vessel you are working on requires a Vessel Security Plan (VSP), you are required to have a TWIC. If the vessel is not required to have a VSP, than you do not need a TWIC to work on the vessel. You may still need a TWIC for other reasons.

Do I need a TWIC for my initial MMC?

A mariner applying for his/her initial MMC will need to enroll for a TWIC and pay the applicable fees at an enrollment center. This is necessary because the TWIC enrollment center is the only location where the Coast Guard can obtain biometric and personal information from the applicant, used by TSA to screen the mariner, and which the Coast Guard uses to issue the MMC.

Can I renew my MMC without a TWIC?

Absolutely! You do not need a TWIC to renew your MMC.

All you need is a TWIC exemption memo that states " I am claiming exemption from the requirement to hold a valid TWIC under Coast Guard Policy Letter 11-15. I certify that I do not need a TWIC.

I understand that a name-based safety and suitability check could significantly delay the processing of my Merchant Mariner Credential Application."

mmseas.com will create a perfect TWIC Exemption memo for you. Signing to your account and click on TWIC in the renewal checklist, then click the red "Generate TWIC Exemption" button.

We hope this made your life a little easier and if you have other questions the MM-SEAS team is always here to help!

MM-SEAS is free to use on your own and if you need some more personalized help you can upgrade to MM-SEAS Pro inside of the site.

No matter what, when you are ready to submit your application, you can choose to have the MM-SEAS staff create a perfect application, handle the USCG application fees and work with the USCG on your behalf to resolve any issues for a flat fee of $349 or you can choose to submit on your own.

Pro MM-SEAS members get access to unlimited live 1 on 1 calls with one of our USCG Licensing Specialists. We've found that answering questions live with screen sharing in a video call makes both of our lives easier. Pro MM-SEAS members can access these features inside of MM-SEAS under License Guidance.