On April 22, 2025, the National Maritime Center announced the cancellation of Marine Safety Information Bulletin 06-23 titled “Merchant Mariner Credentialing Delays”. According to the statement, there are no longer any delays in the issuance of merchant mariner credentials (MMC). Consequently, the verification of authority outlined in MSIB 06-23 is now unnecessary. Mariners should ensure that they possess a valid MMC and medical certificate while sailing.
Mariners are reminded to apply for any credentials at least 90 days before they are needed. Moreover, an MMC can be renewed anytime, with the option to post-date the new credentials up to eight months in advance without a gap between expiration and renewal.
For more information regarding application status or credential verification, the National Maritime Center referred to their bulletin released on April 14, 2025. The announcement was signed by Bradley W. Clare, Captain of the U.S. Coast Guard and Commanding Officer.
