Due to the ongoing government shutdown, the United States Coast Guard National Maritime Center (NMC) staff have returned to work under alternative funding arrangements and have resumed processing applications for MMCs, medical certificates, and course approvals on a first-in, first-out basis.
RECs remain closed to walk-in customers. Mariners with scheduled future examination appointments will be able to test as long as REC staff remain in an exempted status. Mariners with appointments cancelled between February 17 and April 18, 2026 will be contacted by their REC to reschedule once continued funding is confirmed.
A significant backlog is expected. Applications will be handled in the order they were received, meaning delays will continue for some time.
If you currently hold a credential:
You may qualify for an extension through August 31, 2026 if your MMC or Medical Certificate expires between January 1 and May 31, 2026.
To remain compliant:
If you are applying for your first credential:
Your application can now be submitted and will be processed on a first-in, first-out basis. However, a significant backlog exists, contact us today to ensure your application is submitted correctly and promptly.
The maritime industry is a critical part of the U.S. economy and supply chain.
Mariners support the movement of:
Delays in credential processing impact:
While the NMC has resumed processing applications under alternative funding arrangements, a significant backlog has accumulated and the funding situation remains uncertain. Mariners and employers are urged to act now to avoid further delays.
If you want to support the maritime workforce and help push for a resolution:
Step 1: Find your elected officials
👉 https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials
Step 2: Copy the email message below
Step 3: Send it to your representatives
A coordinated voice from mariners across the country can help highlight the real-world impact of the ongoing funding uncertainty and push for a permanent resolution.
Dear [Senator/Representative Name],
I am writing as a member of the U.S. maritime workforce to respectfully urge continued action toward resolving the ongoing government funding situation and its impact on maritime credentialing.
While the National Maritime Center has recently resumed processing applications under alternative funding arrangements, the situation remains uncertain. Funding is not guaranteed, operations could be disrupted again at any time, and a significant backlog has already accumulated.
This ongoing instability is directly impacting mariners across the country who depend on timely credential processing to legally work. Many mariners are currently facing:
- Delays in receiving new or renewed credentials due to the accumulated backlog
- Uncertainty around continued NMC operations given the temporary nature of current funding
- Difficulty meeting employer deadlines for upcoming work
- Regional Examination Centers that remain closed to walk-in customers
The maritime industry is a foundational part of the U.S. economy and supply chain, supporting the movement of fuel, essential goods, and commercial freight across the nation. Ensuring stable, fully funded maritime credentialing services is critical to keeping vessels operating and the supply chain moving.
I respectfully urge you to support a full appropriations resolution that provides the National Maritime Center and the U.S. Coast Guard with the stable funding needed to fully resume operations and clear the existing backlog.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[City, State]
We use cookies to analyze website traffic. We only use this for Google Analytics, which requires cookies. We do not sell, give away, or share any of your information, we respect your privacy.