USCG Merchant Mariner Credential Officer and Rating endorsement Names Have Changed

At 7 AM ET on January 18th, 2025, the Coast Guard's official Merchant Mariner Credential verification tool, HOMEPORT, began displaying new officer and rating endorsement names. This change means that mariners, employers, and Coast Guard inspectors will need to understand the differences between what is written on a hard copy Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and what is found in HOMEPORT, the Coast Guard's official online portal for verifying Merchant Mariner Credentials. This is part of the USCG’s policy to use gender-neutral language wherever possible.

‍What Mandated This Name Change?

The Coast Guard has begun enforcing the CFR updates from the Final Rule Changes to Endorsement Titles 2024-24271 (89 FR 93040). This means the official US Coast Guard verification tool used by inspectors, employers, and mariners will now display different names for certain officer and rating endorsements than what is written on your existing hard-copy Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMCs). Note: The USCG will not be reprinting existing credentials with these new names until a mariner applies for renewal.

‍Understanding the USCG Endorsement Changes and Why They Matter

Starting January 18th, 2025, any newly printed MMCs (upon renewal) will reflect these updated endorsement names. This means that for the next 5 years or so, you will likely be dealing with two sets of endorsement names:

• The old names: As they appear on your existing physical MMC.
• The new names: As they appear on the official US Coast Guard verification tool, HOMEPORT.

This change is significant because Coast Guard inspectors, employers, and mariners all rely on the official verification tool when conducting inspections and planning vessel operations. If you aren't aware of these changes, there can be potential delays or confusion when verifying credentials and planning crew.

‍Here's a quick reference guide to help you navigate the updates

• Apprentice mate (steersman) is now Apprentice Mate of Towing Vessels
• Able Seaman - Unlimited is now Able Seafarer-Unlimited
• Able Seaman - Limited is now Able Seafarer-Limited
• Able Seaman - Special is now Able Seafarer-Special
• Able Seaman - OSV is now Able Seafarer-Special (OSV)
• Able Seaman - Sail is now Able Seafarer-Sail
• Able Seaman - Fishing is now Able Seafarer-Fishing Industry
• Lifeboatman is now Lifeboat Operator
• Lifeboatman - Limited is now Lifeboat Operator-Limited
• Tankerman is now Tank Vessel-PIC
• Tankerman-PIC (Barge) is now Tank Barge-PIC
• Tankerman Assistant is now Tank Vessel-Assistant
• Tankerman Engineer is now Tank Vessel-Engineer
• Fireman is now Boiler Technician
• Hospital corpsman is now Medical Technician
• Pumpman is now Pump Technician
• Ordinary Seaman is now Ordinary Seafarer

You can also download the United State Coast Guard announcement as a PDF of these changes for easy reference HERE.

‍What This Means for You

• Mariners: Be aware that the names on your existing physical MMC may not match what is shown in HOMEPORT, the Coast Guard's official online portal for verifying Merchant Mariner Credentials, until it is time for renewal. It's crucial to know the new equivalent names and be prepared to explain these differences when asked. Are you confused by the new names? MM-SEAS will keep you up to date.
• Employers: When verifying mariner credentials, use HOMEPORT for the most up-to-date information and be aware of both old and new endorsement names when reviewing submitted documents. Are you ready for a simple MMC Compliance Tool? MM-SEAS provides easy access to crew credentials and progress.
• Coast Guard Inspectors: You'll need to use both HOMEPORT and a translation guide as the positions listed on the safe manning documents and the Certificates of Inspection for vessels may differ.

Ensure your documents are up-to-date and accurate. Sign up for a free MM-SEAS account to track your credential changes and easily view and manage your endorsements.

‍MM-SEAS: Helping You Navigate the Changes

MM-SEAS USCG Licensing Software is committed to keeping you updated with the latest changes to USCG regulations. We'll continue to integrate these updates into our platform to ensure that you always have access to the most accurate information. With MM-SEAS you’ll see the new endorsement titles directly on your progress dashboards as well as access a tool to translate your current credentials.

‍Key Takeaway

For the next five years, both old and new endorsement names will be relevant. This is a significant shift in how MMC data is presented, and all stakeholders should be aware of these changes.

Do you have questions or want more information on how MM-SEAS USCG Licensing Software can help you manage your credentials and stay on top of USCG updates? Create a free account by clicking the sign-in button above!

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