The Future of Maritime Education
How to Obtain a US Coast Guard 6 Pack License
10 October 2024
A US Coast Guard (USCG) 6-pack license, officially called the Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) license, is an essential credential for anyone who wants to captain a small passenger vessel in U.S. waters. Commonly known as the 6-pack captain’s license, it allows the holder to operate a boat carrying up to six passengers for hire. This is a great option for those looking to run small charters, fishing trips, or sightseeing tours.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 6-pack license requirements and help you understand the process of obtaining this important certification.
What Is a 6-Pack License?
The 6-pack license, or OUPV captain’s license, is designed for those who want to operate vessels under 100 gross tons, carrying no more than six passengers. This makes it ideal for smaller boats used in activities like sportfishing, charter boat operations, and even scuba diving expeditions. The license also allows you to run an uninspected passenger vessel, which means your boat doesn’t require a formal USCG inspection.
There are two primary versions of this license:
- OUPV Inland: limited to inland waters like lakes, rivers, and bays.
- OUPV Near Coastal: valid up to 100 nautical miles offshore.
6-Pack License Requirements
To qualify for the USCG 6-pack license, you’ll need to meet several requirements:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Sea Service Time: You must log at least 360 days of boating experience, with 90 days of experience within the last three years. If you’re applying for the OUPV Near Coastal license, 90 of these days must be in offshore waters.
- Physical Examination: You need to pass a USCG-approved medical exam to ensure you’re physically capable of performing the duties of a captain.
- Drug Testing: Proof of participation in a USCG-compliant random drug testing program is required.
- First Aid and CPR Certification: You’ll need a valid First Aid and CPR certification from a recognized provider.
- TWIC Card: A Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card is required for all mariner credential applications.
- Exam: You must pass the USCG OUPV exam, which tests your knowledge of navigation, rules of the road, and safety procedures.
For more details on specific USCG 6-pack requirements, visit the Northeast Maritime Institute’s OUPV career path page here.
Course and Training Options
Many aspiring captains choose to complete a 6-pack captain’s license course. Courses are available both online and in-person, often at maritime training schools or community colleges. If you’re searching for a six-pack captains license course near me, make sure the program is USCG-approved and covers the full scope of topics needed to pass the uscg six-pack captain’s license exam.
The course typically covers the following areas:
- Navigation and Plotting: Learning how to read and plot charts.
- Rules of the Road: Understanding the laws that govern vessel operations to avoid collisions.
- Safety Protocols: Ensuring passenger and vessel safety.
- Boat Handling: Maneuvering in various conditions and scenarios.
Preparing for the 6-Pack License Exam
The USCG 6-pack license exam is divided into several parts:
- Navigation General: Testing your knowledge of charts and plotting.
- Deck General: Focusing on vessel operation, anchoring, and docking.
- Rules of the Road: Covering the navigational rules for preventing collisions.
- Safety: Assessing your knowledge of lifesaving equipment, fire safety, and more.
Study materials and prep courses can help you get familiar with the content and exam format. Completing a six-pack license course is often the best way to ensure you’re ready to pass on your first attempt.
Renewing Your OUPV License
Once you’ve obtained your 6-pack captain’s license, it’s important to keep it current. The license is valid for five years, after which you’ll need to apply for an OUPV renewal. The renewal process requires evidence of ongoing sea service or completion of a refresher course, along with updated medical and drug test documentation.
Start Your Journey as a Boat Captain
The 6-pack captains license is the first step toward a rewarding career on the water. Whether you’re looking to operate a small charter boat or expand into larger maritime operations, obtaining this license opens doors to exciting opportunities. If you’re interested in taking the next step, Northeast Maritime Institute offers a variety of captain’s license 6-pack courses and can guide you through the process of meeting the coast guard six-pack license requirements.
To learn more about the career path and how Northeast Maritime Institute can assist you, visit our OUPV career path page here.
