About Us
Portside Credentials provides individualized credential and consulting services. Our assistance caters to experienced mariners seeking credential renewals or upgrades and new mariners navigating the credentialing process. We offer guidance on requirements, conduct document reviews, and ensure that your information aligns with the regulations and policies of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and National Maritime Center (NMC).
Mission Statement
Our mission is to guide you through the credentialing process, ensuring compliance with United States Coast Guard (USCG) regulations. We offer one-on-one assistance for obtaining, renewing, upgrading, or reinstating credentials, submitting STCW endorsements, evaluating military sea service, and requesting approval to test. Our dedicated team reviews documents for compliance, assists with application forms and fee payments, submits applications electronically, and monitors the process to ensure timely issuance of your credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I am not a U.S. Citizen?
You can still be considered for an MMC, provided you submit documentation showing you are a permanent resident with an Alien Registration Card from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Additionally, you must provide proof of your foreign citizenship. If any documents are not in English, they must be accompanied by a notarized translation.
How do I document military sea service?
To provide satisfactory evidence of U.S. military service, you need a Transcript of Military Sea Service or a certified History of Assignments (a DD-214 alone is not sufficient). If you do not already have proof, you must complete a Request Pertaining to Military Records (Form SF-180) to obtain your official Transcript of Military Sea Service. Submit the request with your name and return address clearly printed to the address of the record custodian for your service branch, as indicated on the back of the form.
What kind of work can I do with an MMC?
Having an MMC allows you to serve in the deck, engineering, or steward's departments of a ship. Your specific roles and responsibilities will be determined by the endorsements you possess:
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The deck department primarily handles ship navigation and operations.
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The engineering department focuses on propulsion and machinery maintenance.
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The steward's department manages supplies and food services onboard the ship.
How old must I be?
To obtain a Merchant Mariner’s Credential (MMC), you must be at least 16 years old. If you are between 16 and 18, you must provide a notarized consent form from a parent or legal guardian granting you permission to go to sea.