The main goal of Pathfinder Maritime Training is to make earning a professional maritime licensing process as simple as possible. In this blog and the short video below, I’ll walk you through how to earn an Able Seaman license in three easy steps.
Before we talk about these steps, I want to point out the National Maritime Center’s (NMC) checklist which provides detailed information on applying for your Able Seaman license. It’s also worth noting that the official term for an Able Seaman license is actually an Able Seafarer credential, but for the most part, people use these terms interchangeably. In this blog, I’ll be referring to it as an AB credential.
Step 1: Enroll in and Complete a Licensing Course
Perhaps the hardest part of this step is determining which course provider is right for you. There are a host of training providers that offer AB courses, and choosing the right one for you is crucial. Make sure you choose the course that will fit your schedule, timeline, and provide you with the learning support you need.
Also, to earn an AB credential you are required to qualify for either a Lifeboat Operator or a Lifeboat Operator-Limited. Pathfinder Maritime’s online course includes both AB and Lifeboat Operator-Limited credentials so you can complete both of these requirements at the same time.
Step 2: Complete the National Maritime Center License Application
Perhaps the most challenging part of earning your AB credential is completing the National Maritime Center (NMC) application. Pathfinder Maritime Training’s AB course includes a subscription to MMSeas Expert Access so you’ll have plenty of support completing the NMC paperwork correctly the first time.
In addition to completing the NMC application form, you will need:
- A valid health certificate (form CG-719k)
- A DOT-5 panel drug screen within the past six months
- Proof of sea service
Although this may seem like a lot of paperwork, none of these are challenging if you use the NMC application checklist or MMSeas and pay attention to the details.
Note on Sea Service Requirements: To learn more about Sea Service requirements check out Pathfinder’s AB Sea Service blog. In short, you need a minimum of 180 days of sea service to qualify for an AB license. This sea service requirement may be higher depending on the level of AB you want. You can check out the NMC’s Frequently Asked question page to learn more.
Step 3: Submit Your Application to the National Maritime Center
Once you complete the NMC application checklist, simply use the NMC’s website to submit your application and all required documents.
Summary
The journey to becoming an Able Seaman is straightforward once you have the right guidance. In summary, to earn an Able Seaman credential you need to:
- Complete an approved course including a Lifeboat Operator-Limited course.
- Complete your application and all other requirements using the NMC Able Seafarer checklist.
- Submit your application to the NMC.
Earning an AB credential can be life changing given the job opportunities that exist, and Pathfinder Maritime Training would love to help you become an AB! Visit pathfindercaptain.com to learn more about our online Able Seaman course or to enroll today.
Visit MMSeas.com to learn more about their application assistance.
