How to Join the Merchant Navy

Last Updated: October 25, 2021 References

Are you looking for a new adventure? If so, a career in the merchant navy might be for you. In the merchant navy, also known as as the merchant marine, you’ll spend time transporting shipments to other countries and making sure day-to-day life on the ship goes smoothly. While being a mariner involves a lot of hard work, it can be a really rewarding career path. We’ve answered all you frequently asked questions, so you can know if this job is a good match for you.

Question 1

Question 1 of 8:
What are the age limits for the merchant navy?

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The minimum age is 16 to 18 depending on the company. Some places let 16-year-olds join the merchant navy, while others require you to be at least 18. Certain jobs on the ship may come with an age limit, too; for instance, some companies require lifeboat crew members to be at least 21, and third mates to be 19 or older.^{[1]
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There is no retirement age limit. You can be in the merchant navy for as long as you’d like. However, many people choose to leave the merchant navy at some point and try a different career.^{[2]
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Question 2

Question 2 of 8:
What kinds of jobs are available?

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Maintain the ship in the engine department. If you have an engineering background, you might be a good fit for the engine department. In this department, you might work as a mechanic, engineer, electrician, or oiler who helps keep the ship up and running.^{[3]
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- When you first join the merchant navy, the Coast Guard will label you as “licensed” or “unlicensed.” Licensed mariners are more experienced, and will fill leadership roles on the ship. Unlicensed mariners are the newer, inexperienced recruits. Don’t worry—regardless of your title or label, all mariners play an important role on the ship.^{[4]
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Keep the ship running smoothly in the deck department. As a member of the deck department, you’ll help manage the cargo and steer the ship.^{[5]
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Research source} Similar to the engine department, you’ll help the ship run as smoothly and efficiently as possible.^{[6]
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Serve food and clean living spaces in the steward’s department. In this department, you’ll prepare and serve meals to the other crew members. You may also tidy up the officer’s sleeping quarters, and help plan the meals and grocery budget for the ship.^{[7]
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Question 3

Question 3 of 8:
What documents and certifications do you need to join the merchant navy?

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Apply for a Transportation Worker’s Identity Credential (TWIC). Fill out an application online at the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) website, or visit a TWIC application center in person. Pay $125.15 for your application, and wait for your TWIC to get mailed to you.^{[8]
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U.S. Transportation Security Administration
U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols
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- You need a TWIC to legally work as a merchant mariner.
- A TWIC is basically a background check that proves your eligibility to be a merchant mariner.
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Submit the proper paperwork and a drug test to the nearest Regional Examination Center (REC). Collect your Transcript of Sea Service, along with your History of Assignments and a transcript of your history in the military.^{[9]
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Research source} Also, include the results of a Department of Transportation (DOT) 5-panel drug test.^{[10]
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Research source} You’ll also need to pass a physical exam, which proves that you’re healthy enough to work on a ship.^{[11]
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Research source} Then, pick up a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) from the Coast Guard. Submit these forms and MMC to your local REC, which will process your application.^{[12]
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- This checklist outlines everything you’ll need to get your MMC: https://www.dco.uscg.mil/Portals/9/NMC/pdfs/forms/application_acceptance_checklist.pdf.
- You don’t have to have military experience to join the merchant navy.^{[13]
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Complete the required training program. Being a merchant mariner is pretty similar to being in the military. With this in mind, you’ll need to be certified by the Coast Guard.^{[14]
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Research source} If you were in the Navy or Coast Guard before, you might not need to go through this extra training.^{[15]
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Question 4

Question 4 of 8:
How long does it take to become a merchant mariner?

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It takes several months to join the engine department. To work in this department, you’ll need at least 180 days of work experience under your belt. Some companies will count approved training programs toward this 180-day requirement.^{[16]
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It can take weeks and months to join the deck department. Specific education and experience requirements ultimately depend on the shipping company you apply for; however, most companies prefer applicants who either have past work experience or a certificate from a Coast Guard-approved school.^{[17]
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You can join the steward’s department with the proper paperwork. Officially, you don’t need a degree to apply for a job in the steward’s department. However, you can really set yourself apart as a candidate by having past experience as a cook and/or in the Coast Guard or Navy.^{[18]
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Question 5

Question 5 of 8:
How can I get a head-start?

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Sign up for an apprenticeship program. A merchant marine apprenticeship is a great way to get both hands-on and classroom experience. The apprenticeship lasts a little over 2 years, and gives you lots of at-sea experience. By the time you finish, you’ll be qualified for a higher-ranking position in the deck department, instead of starting at an entry-level job.^{[19]
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- You can sign up for an apprenticeship here: https://www.mitags.org/maritime-apprenticeship-programs.

Question 6

Question 6 of 8:
What is the salary for the merchant navy?

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Merchant mariners make around $54,000 a year. There isn’t a set pay scale, but some mariners make around $400 each day.^{[20]
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Question 7

Question 7 of 8:
Is the merchant navy a good career?

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Yes, it is. The merchant navy allows you to build close friendships with your fellow mariners while traveling all over the world. You’ll also learn valuable skills, like how to communicate with others, discipline yourself, and be resourceful.^{[21]
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Question 8

Question 8 of 8:
Are tattoos allowed in the merchant navy?

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Yes, they are. There are no rules against having tattoos or body piercings. As a general rule of thumb, try to keep your tattoos mostly covered while you’re working, especially if you’re in a different country.^{[22]
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Community Q&A

Question

If I am overweight, can I join the Merchant Navy?

Nouraos67

Community Answer

It will be hard to join because they want you to be physically fit for the job. I recommend getting in shape before you join.