USCG captain's license exams are scheduled through Regional Exam Centers (RECs) — physical testing locations operated by the Coast Guard nationwide.
Apply at homeport.uscg.milApply through the NMC
Submit your application at homeport.uscg.mil. You'll need sea service documentation, a physical (MMLD), references, and your course completion certificate. Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks.
Receive your approval letter
The NMC sends an approval letter authorizing you to take the exam. It includes a list of the specific exam modules you're scheduled for.
Contact your nearest REC
Call or email the REC closest to you to schedule your exam date. RECs set their own scheduling — some can accommodate you within days, others may have a wait.
Take the exam
Arrive early with your approval letter and valid photo ID. Exams are computer-based at most RECs. You'll receive your results immediately.
Receive your license
If you pass, your credential is issued by the NMC and typically arrives within a few weeks. Some RECs issue a temporary certificate on the spot.
Call your REC to confirm their specific requirements before you go.
NMC approval letter (required — the exam cannot proceed without it)
Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
Exam fee payment (check, money order, or credit card — varies by REC)
Any additional documentation specified in your approval letter
Pencils and scratch paper are typically provided — no calculators unless specified
Arrive at least 15 minutes early
Call ahead to confirm hours and verify your specific exam modules are offered.
REC Boston
REC New York
1 South Street, New York, NY 10004
Mon–Thu 6:30 AM–5:30 PM · Fri 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
REC Baltimore
40 S. Gay Street, Room 420, Baltimore, MD 21202
REC Charleston
196 Tradd Street, Charleston, SC 29401
REC Miami
REC New Orleans
4250 Highway 22, Suite F, Mandeville, LA 70471
Mon–Thu 7:30 AM–3:30 PM · Fri 7:30 AM–1:15 PM
REC Houston
Contact NMC for current address and hours.
REC Memphis
REC St. Louis
813 N 2nd Street, St. Louis, MO 63102
REC Long Beach
REC Oakland
1301 Clay Street, Room 180N, Oakland, CA 94612
REC Portland
911 NE 11th Avenue, Room 637, Portland, OR 97232
REC Seattle
REC Anchorage
800 E. Dimond Blvd., Suite 3-227, Anchorage, AK 99515
REC Juneau
REC Honolulu
Contact NMC for current address and hours.
REC San Juan
Contact NMC for current address and hours.
⚠ REC addresses, hours, and phone numbers change. Always verify with the official NMC REC directory or call the NMC at 1-888-427-5662 before making the trip.
Aim for 80%+ on a full exam simulation before scheduling. It's the best predictor of exam-day performance.