AB to MATE Program
This section contains official references to help you find information on training requirements and the U.S. Coast Guard Checklists that detail the requirements for issue of documents or licenses. It also outlines the courses offered at MITAGS that satisfy these requirements.
Since the full implementation of the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping Code (STCW-95) on February 1st, 2003, Able-Bodied Seaman upgrading to Mate must complete the training outlined in U.S. Coast Guard Policy Letter 01-02. Policy 01-02 requires completion of the following:
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Three-years of approved sea service.
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Six-months of documented watchkeeping.
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Thirteen-weeks of formal training.
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Seventy-eight practical assessments of skill.
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Successful completion of the U.S. Coast Guard examination at the Mate level.
After completing these requirements, the individual will be issued a Mate's license. However, the tonnage limitation will be based on the size of the vessels upon which the individual served (500 GRT, 1,600 GRT, Unlimited). The oceans license will also be issued if the individual successfully completes the Celestial module of the U.S. Coast Guard examination.
To upgrade from 3rd Mate to 2nd Mate, the individual must have 360-days sea service as an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch while holding a 3rd Mates license as per 46 CFR, Part 10.406. Upon successful completion of these requirements, no further testing is required.
References
Most of the general requirements for AB to Mate level mariners can be found in 46 CFR, Part 10 (Licensing of Maritime Personnel).
Specific training requirements can be found in the U.S. Coast Guard Policy Letters and Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVIC'S), which are available online. For your convenience, there is also a link at the bottom of this page in the "Useful Links" section.
Assessments
U.S. Coast Guard Policy Letter 01-02 lists 78 assessments that must be completed in accordance with the "Control Sheets" (standards) contained in the applicable Policy Letter. For reference, an assessment is defined as a practical demonstration of skill that shows an individual can perform a specific task or duty to an acceptable standard. The "Control Sheets" define the task, performance condition, performance behavior, and the performance standard. Assessments may be completed onboard a vessel, in a simulator, or as part of an approved training program.
Downloads:
AB to Mate Brochure Rev 7/13?07
AB to Mate Information Rev 10/08/07
AB to Mate Program/Course Schedule Rev 12/6/07
AB to Mate Information Rev 10/08/07
AB to Mate Program/Course Schedule Rev 12/6/07
Practical Assessments by Course Rev 01/02
Assessment Control Sheets Rev 01/02
MITAGS Checklist
Tug Training Information Rev 3/21/07
U.S. Coast Guard Checklists Rev 3/04
NMC Policy Letter 06-03
AB to Mate Training for MSC Mariners (2007)
Useful Links:
