While it represents a temporary step back for employers and mariners, the U.S. Coast Guard has canceled Marine Safety Information Bulletin 06-23, effective April 22, 2025. This action requires all mariners to physically possess their valid MMC and medical certificate for all work, ending the popular digital verification allowance for domestic voyages.
The cancellation was officially attributed to the National Maritime Center having resolved all issuance delays. However, this policy change also coincides with the permanent shutdown of the USCG Homeport portal and its essential Credential Verification Tool on April 12, 2025. Consequently, the mechanism enabling the digital verification outlined in MSIB 06-23 is no longer available.
Although requiring physical documents feels like a return to older methods, it is important to view this within the context of the USCG's broader commitment to modernizing the mariner credentialing system. The previous MSIB 06-23 policy was a successful step, demonstrating the value and efficiency of digital verification. While the underlying infrastructure is gone, the need for such a system remains clear.
The maritime industry needs a simple and efficient way to confirm mariner qualifications electronically. A robust digital verification system is vital for everyone involved. For mariners, it means getting back to work faster after credential issuance, reducing financial hardship caused by waiting for mail delivery. It streamlines their career progression and provides greater certainty. For employers, it allows for quicker, more efficient crewing, ensures compliance with regulations, reduces administrative burdens, and helps keep vessels operating without unnecessary delays. For the USCG, it enhances maritime safety and security by ensuring only properly credentialed mariners are operating vessels and frees up valuable resources from manual verification tasks.
Until a new digital solution is implemented, the industry must adapt to the current procedures. Physical documents are mandatory, so mariners must always carry their valid MMC and medical certificate. Employers and crewing coordinators needing official verification beyond inspecting the physical documents must now email the NMC directly at [email protected], using the subject line 'Credential Verification', while anticipating potential delays. Similarly, they can also directly contact the NMC via phone at 1-888-427-5662 or through Live Chat during business hours. Credential verification via all methods is limited to verification of five mariners at a time.
The USCG continues to advise mariners to apply for credentials at least 90 days in advance and notes that renewals can be post-dated up to eight months.
While the current situation requires patience and adherence to physical document requirements, the progress made with MSIB 06-23 demonstrated the potential. We are looking forward to the next generation of digital tools to further simplify and secure the credentialing process for the benefit of all stakeholders in the Marine Transportation System.
