The Mariner Credentialing Program (MCP) Transformation represents a comprehensive reform of U.S. merchant mariner credentialing. It aims to meet the needs of the maritime industry by removing obsolete requirements, integrating modern training technology, and introducing digital-first tools to serve stakeholders more efficiently. Process improvements such as the Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP) and the emailing of medical certificates have already provided improvements.
At the core of the MCP Transformation is the development of Navita™, a modern, streamlined credentialing system essential to supporting the maritime workforce, the U.S. Marine Transportation System and the national economy. In addition to Navita™, the Coast Guard MCP Transformation focuses efforts on modernizing mariner examinations, the use of maritime simulators in training, and deregulatory actions to reduce undue burdens on the maritime industry.
The Coast Guard is committed to building a more effective, modern, and user-friendly MCP in support of America’s Maritime Action Plan and the maritime industry. We encourage all mariners and maritime stakeholders to stay informed on our progress by visiting the National Maritime Center website for the latest updates and announcements. Continue reading to learn more about MCP Transformation initiatives.
Maritime Simulator Study
The Coast Guard partnered with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Volpe National Transportation Center to study how simulator-based training and assessments of competence may be applied to meet certain sea service requirements. This research helps the Coast Guard evaluate the feasibility of additional methods for mariners to meet requirements and reforming maritime workforce education and training.
Modernization of Mariner Examinations
The Coast Guard completed a comprehensive job task analysis to ensure credentialing examinations reflect the mariner duties and responsibilities required on modern U.S. vessels. By evaluating the level of difficulty, frequency, and importance of daily shipboard tasks, we are building a more relevant and robust examination system. Furthermore, the Coast Guard is planning a transition from a paper-based examination process to an electronic format. This transition will create a modern, efficient, and effective examination system aligning with evolving industry standards and technology and providing additional locations for completing required examinations.
Deregulatory Actions
In alignment with Executive Order 14192, “Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation”, the Coast Guard is considering deregulatory actions and policy changes to reduce burdens on mariners and the maritime industry. Areas of consideration include alternate methods for meeting sea service requirements, eliminating excessive training requirements for certain endorsements, streamlining processes and requirements for maritime training and course approvals, and reducing administrative burdens. The Coast Guard aims to reduce administrative barriers and expand pathways to build a robust maritime workforce.
Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP)
In January 2026, the National Maritime Center (NMC) launched the online ASAP to improve customer service until Navita™ becomes operational. This portal is the primary method for submitting and tracking MMC and medical certificate applications, replacing outdated paper, email, and fax processes. Designed to give mariners more direct control over their credential transactions, ASAP simplifies the submission process and minimizes wait times. It also reduces the administrative burden on Coast Guard personnel, allowing the NMC to continue focusing efforts to reduce the inventory of applications on hand.
E-Mail Delivery of Medical Certificates
The Coast Guard has changed the way mariners receive their medical certificates, transitioning to e-mail delivery in April 2026. The previous process of printing and mailing medical certificates was prone to postal delays and administrative issues. Delivering medical certificates directly to a mariner’s inbox simplifies the process, eliminates mailing delays, and provides mariners with fast, reliable access to their medical certificate.
Moving Forward
Modernizing the MCP is an ongoing process. We understand the need to update the program to meet stakeholder requirements and are working diligently to deliver improvements, like Navita™ and the initiatives listed above. We appreciate your patience as we build a better MCP.