Getting your USCG captain’s license Massachusetts is essential for operating charter fishing boats, tour vessels, or any commercial passenger boat in Boston Harbor, Cape Cod Bay, or Massachusetts coastal waters. This guide covers OUPV 6-pack and Master license requirements, costs ($1,070-$2,045), exam preparation, Massachusetts DMF permits, and Boston REC application procedures.
Table of Contents
- What is a Captain's License?
- Types of Captain's Licenses
- OUPV 6-Pack License
- Master License (25/50/100/200 Ton) & Upgrades
- License Renewals
- Massachusetts State-Specific Requirements
- Comparison Table (Massachusetts Captain's Licenses)
- Massachusetts Training Providers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Considerations for Massachusetts Captains License
- Contact Information
- Final Recommendations
What is a Captain’s License?
A USCG captain’s license in Massachusetts is federally mandated for anyone carrying paying passengers on charter boats, tour vessels, or commercial fishing operations. Whether operating in Boston Harbor, Stellwagen Bank, Cape Cod waters, or offshore routes up to 200 miles, this credential proves seamanship, safety knowledge, and legal compliance with both federal USCG and Massachusetts state regulations.
Why You Need a Captain’s License:
- Required for all for-hire passenger operations
- Charter fishing boats in Massachusetts waters
- Tour and sightseeing vessels
- Water taxi and ferry services
- Commercial vessel operations
Types of Captain’s Licenses
Available License Types:
- OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) – “6-Pack License”
- Master 25 Ton – Small commercial vessels
- Master 50 Ton – Medium charter operations
- Master 100 Ton – Large vessels and ferries
- Master 200 Ton – Commercial and offshore operations
- Upgrades – OUPV to Master progression
- Renewals – Every 5 years
OUPV 6-Pack License
The OUPV license (commonly called a “6-pack license”) allows you to carry up to 6 paying passengers on uninspected vessels up to 100 gross tons in Massachusetts waters.
OUPV Eligibility Requirements
Basic Requirements:
- Age: Minimum 18 years old
- Sea Service: 360 days on water since age 16; 90 days in past 3 years
- Near Coastal Route: Requires 90 days on ocean/coastal waters
- TWIC Card: Transportation Worker Identification Credential required
- Medical Exam: Form CG-719K by USCG-approved physician
- Drug Testing: DOT 5-panel urinalysis (within 6 months)
- CPR & First Aid: Current certification within 12 months (Red Cross or USCG-approved)
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
Sea Service Documentation Tips:
- Each qualifying day = minimum 4 hours on water; full day = 8+ hours
- Maintain detailed logbooks: vessel name, dates, owner contact, activity
- Recreational boating counts when properly documented
- Owner or licensed captain must sign CG-719S sea service forms
- Keep records of all time on Massachusetts waters (Boston Harbor, Cape Cod, etc.)
OUPV Education and Exam
Training Options in Massachusetts:
- USCG-approved classroom courses (Boston, Cape Cod, Newburyport)
- Blended online/in-person programs
- Fully online with proctored exams at Boston REC
Exam Modules and Passing Scores:
- Rules of the Road: 90% required
- Navigation General: 70% required
- Chart Plotting: 90% required
- Deck General/Safety: 70% required
Exam Preparation:
- All USCG-approved schools provide complete study materials
- Practice tests available through Massachusetts training providers
- Chart plotting requires hands-on practice with parallel rulers and dividers
- Failed modules can be retaken individually
- Passing scores remain valid for 1 year
- Massachusetts waters knowledge beneficial for practical application
OUPV Documentation Required
Complete Application Package:
- Sea service forms (CG-719S) with vessel details
- TWIC card (apply at https://universalenroll.dhs.gov)
- Application form (CG-719B)
- Medical examination (CG-719K)
- DOT drug test results
- CPR/First Aid certification
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
OUPV Application Process
Step-by-Step:
- Gather all required documentation
- Complete application and sea service forms
- Register for USCG-approved course and exam (strongly recommended)
- Pay USCG evaluation fees (~$145)
- Submit package to National Maritime Center or Boston REC
Processing Timeline:
- Application review: 4-8 weeks typical
- No expedited processing for initial applications
- Check status at NMC website using application number
- License valid immediately upon issuance by USCG
- Boston REC can answer Massachusetts-specific questions
OUPV Total Cost Breakdown
| Line Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| USCG-Approved Course | $600–$1,495 |
| USCG Evaluation Fees | ~$145 |
| TWIC Card | $125 |
| Medical Exam | $100–$150 |
| Drug Test | $50–$100 |
| CPR/First Aid | $50–$130 |
| Total Investment | $1,070–$2,045 |
Costs for Massachusetts training providers vary by location (Boston, Hyannis, Newburyport) and course format.
Master License (25/50/100/200 Ton) & Upgrades
Master licenses allow operation of inspected passenger vessels with unlimited passengers (up to vessel certificate) and command of crew members. Essential for Massachusetts ferry operations, large charter boats, and commercial vessels.
Master License Eligibility
Age and General Requirements:
- Age: Minimum 19 years old
- TWIC/Medical/Drug/CPR/Citizenship: Same as OUPV requirements
Sea Service by License Level:
- 25-Ton Master: 360 days total (any vessel size); 90 days in last 3 years
- 50-Ton Master: Requires 90 days on vessels ≥26 GRT (Gross Register Tons)
- 100-Ton Master (Inland/Great Lakes): Requires 180 days on vessels ≥34 GRT
- 100-Ton Master (Near Coastal): 720 days total (360 on near coastal waters); 90 in last 3 years
- 200-Ton Master: 720+ days with substantial time on large vessels
Understanding Tonnage Requirements:
- GRT (Gross Register Tons) ≠ vessel length or displacement weight
- Verify vessel GRT from documentation or registration
- Many Massachusetts charter boats fall in 26-50 GRT range
- Large ferries (Boston, Cape Cod) require 100-200 ton credentials
Route Endorsements for Massachusetts Waters:
- Inland: Rivers, bays, sounds (Massachusetts Bay, Cape Cod Canal)
- Great Lakes: Five Great Lakes and connecting waters
- Near Coastal: Within 200 miles of shore (most Massachusetts charter operations)
- Oceans: Unlimited worldwide (requires extensive offshore service)
Master License Education and Exam
Training Requirements:
- USCG-approved upgrade courses mandatory (available in Boston, New Bedford, Cape Cod)
- Online options with proctored exams at Boston REC
- Advanced course material beyond OUPV level
Exam Modules:
- Advanced Deck General & Safety
- Vessel Inspection procedures
- Advanced Navigation/Chartplotting
- Rules of the Road (comprehensive)
- Radar Observer certification (some upgrades)
Master License Benefits:
- Operate Coast Guard inspected passenger vessels
- Carry unlimited passengers (per vessel certificate)
- Command licensed and unlicensed crew members
- Required for Massachusetts ferry operations
- Higher earning potential in charter and commercial sectors
- Expanded job opportunities in New England maritime industry
Master License Documentation
Required for Application/Upgrade:
- Detailed sea service forms with vessel tonnage and routes
- Proof of USCG-approved course completion
- Current medical examination (CG-719K)
- Recent drug test results
- CPR/First Aid certification
- Valid TWIC card
- Proof of citizenship
Master License Application Process
Upgrade Steps:
- Document all qualifying vessel service with GRT and routes
- Enroll in and complete USCG-approved upgrade course
- Compile all medical, testing, CPR, and TWIC documentation
- Pay USCG fees ($145 base; additional for route endorsements)
- Submit complete package to National Maritime Center or Boston REC
Master License Upgrade Costs
| Line Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Master Upgrade Course | $400–$995 |
| USCG Evaluation Fees | $145+ |
| Medical/Drug/CPR/TWIC | Same as OUPV |
| Total Upgrade Investment | $1,000–$1,400 |
Additional costs if adding multiple route endorsements or tonnage increases.
License Renewals
USCG captain’s licenses in Massachusetts must be renewed every 5 years to remain valid for charter and commercial operations.
Renewal Requirements
Mandatory Elements:
- Renewal Interval: Every 5 years from issue date
- Sea Service: 360 days in last 5 years (or must retest)
- Medical Exam: Current CG-719K form
- Drug Test: Recent DOT 5-panel results
- CPR/First Aid: Current certification
- TWIC Card: Must remain valid throughout license period
- Application: Submit new CG-719B with renewal package
Renewal Streamlining Strategy:
- Begin renewal process 8-12 months before expiration
- TWIC renewal alone takes 4-6 weeks; start early
- Medical exams valid only 12 months for renewal purposes
- Many Massachusetts schools offer 1-2 day renewal courses
- Renewal courses satisfy retest requirement if sea service insufficient
Renewal Application Process
Submission:
- Complete package to National Maritime Center via mail or email
- Processing time: 3-8 weeks typical
- Boston REC can assist with Massachusetts-specific questions
- Do not let license lapse; expired license requires full retest
Massachusetts State-Specific Requirements
Beyond the federal USCG captain’s license, Massachusetts requires additional permits and compliance for charter boat operations.
Required Massachusetts Permits
Charter & Head Boat Endorsement:
- Required by Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF)
- Applies to for-hire fishing operations (not sightseeing tours)
- Application requires copy of USCG license
- Submit to DMF with required fee
- Contact: (617) 626-1520
Saltwater For-Hire Fishing Permit:
- Mandatory for all saltwater charter fishing in Massachusetts
- Separate from captain’s license
- Requires valid USCG credential
- Apply at: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/buy-a-saltwater-for-hire-fishing-permit
Massachusetts Boater Safety Requirements:
- New boater safety card required for all motorboat/PWC operators starting April 2026
- Applies to recreational and some commercial operations
- Check Massachusetts Environmental Police for updates
Massachusetts Vessel Compliance
Registration and Documentation:
- All charter vessels must be registered unless federally documented
- Annual safety inspections required for documented charter vessels
- Compliance with state and federal inspection schedules
- Reporting requirements to Massachusetts DMF and Environmental Police
Additional Massachusetts Requirements:
- Insurance: Most charter operations require minimum $300,000 liability coverage
- Environmental Regulations: Discharge, waste, and protected species compliance in state waters
- Commercial Fishing Licenses: Separate from captain’s license if harvesting for sale
- Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary: Special regulations for operations in sanctuary waters
Comparison Table (Massachusetts Captain’s Licenses)
| License Type | Age | Sea Service | Max Passengers | Vessel Type | Tonnage | Route Options | Typical Massachusetts Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OUPV 6-Pack | 18 | 360 days | 6 | Uninspected | ≤100 | Inland/Coastal/GL | Charter fishing, tours, sightseeing |
| Master 25 | 19 | 360 days | Unlimited* | Inspected/Uninspected | ≤25 | Various | Small tour boats, water taxi |
| Master 50 | 19 | 90-180 days ≥26 GRT | Unlimited* | Inspected/Uninspected | ≤50 | Various | Medium charter boats |
| Master 100 | 19 | 180 days ≥34 GRT | Unlimited* | Inspected/Uninspected | ≤100 | Various | Large charters, small ferries |
| Master 200 | 19+ | 720+ days large vessel | Unlimited* | Inspected/Uninspected | ≤200 | Various | Commercial ferries, offshore |
Unlimited passengers per vessel’s Coast Guard certificate of inspection
Massachusetts Training Providers
Classroom Training Options
New England Maritime Academy
- Location: Hyannis, Cape Cod
- USCG-approved OUPV and Master courses
- Local Cape Cod waters knowledge
- Website: https://www.nemaritime.com
Atlantic Captains Academy
- Location: Newburyport, North Shore
- In-person OUPV classes
- Boston area access
- Website: https://atlanticcaptainsacademy.com
Maritime Institute
- Multiple New England locations
- Comprehensive licensing and certification
- Website: https://maritimeinstitute.com
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
- Professional training division
- Advanced credentials available
- Website: https://www.maritime.edu/professional-training
Online/Hybrid Training Options
Mariners Learning System
- Online courses with Boston exam proctoring
- Comprehensive study materials
- Website: https://marinerslearningsystem.com
MITAGS-PMI
- Blended learning format
- USCG-approved curriculum
- Website: https://www.mitags.org
Sea School
- Online courses
- Proctored exams at Boston REC
- Flexible scheduling
Selecting a Training Provider
Evaluation Criteria:
- USCG approval verification (check National Maritime Center website)
- First-time exam pass rates
- Instructor experience in Massachusetts and New England waters
- Course schedule flexibility for seasonal workers
- Exam proctoring location (Boston REC accessibility)
- Cost comparison for identical credentials
- Reviews from Massachusetts charter captains
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a captain’s license in Massachusetts?
Complete timeline: 3-6 months. Course completion takes 1-2 weeks; USCG application processing takes 4-8 weeks. Start gathering sea service documentation and scheduling TWIC appointment immediately.
Can I use recreational boating time for sea service?
Yes. Recreational boating counts toward the 360-day requirement if properly documented with vessel details, dates, and owner signatures on CG-719S forms.
Do I need a captain’s license for a private boat in Massachusetts?
No. USCG captain’s licenses are only required when carrying paying passengers or operating commercial vessels. Recreational boating requires no federal license (Massachusetts boater safety card required starting April 2026).
What’s the difference between OUPV and Master license?
OUPV (“6-pack”) limits you to 6 passengers on uninspected vessels. Master licenses allow unlimited passengers (per vessel certificate) on inspected vessels and authorize commanding crew members.
Which license do I need for charter fishing in Massachusetts?
OUPV 6-pack license covers most charter fishing operations (up to 6 passengers). Also required: Massachusetts DMF Charter & Head Boat Endorsement and Saltwater For-Hire Fishing Permit.
How much does a captain’s license cost in Massachusetts?
Initial OUPV: $1,070-$2,045. Master upgrade: $1,000-$1,400. Costs include training, USCG fees, TWIC, medical exam, drug test, and CPR/First Aid certification.
Where do I take the captain’s license exam in Massachusetts?
Exams can be taken at USCG REC Boston or through USCG-approved training schools offering proctored testing in Boston, Cape Cod, and Newburyport.
Can I operate in Boston Harbor with an Inland license?
Yes. Boston Harbor falls under Inland waters designation. For operations beyond Massachusetts Bay or offshore (Stellwagen Bank, etc.), Near Coastal endorsement required.
What happens if my license expires?
Expired licenses require complete retest of all exam modules. Renew before expiration to avoid retesting. Processing takes 3-8 weeks; start early.
Do I need additional permits for Stellwagen Bank operations?
USCG Near Coastal license covers navigation. Comply with Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary regulations for whale watching and protected species. Massachusetts DMF permits required for fishing charters.
Key Considerations for Massachusetts Captains License
Strategic License Planning
Initial License Selection:
- Start with OUPV 6-pack if uncertain about career trajectory
- Near Coastal endorsement recommended for Massachusetts (opens offshore charter opportunities)
- Inland-only restricts you to protected waters (Boston Harbor, Cape Cod Canal, inland bays)
- Consider future vessel size when documenting sea service
Sea Service Documentation:
- Document every day on water from age 16 onward
- Undocumented time cannot be retroactively recovered
- Keep detailed logbooks with vessel GRT for future upgrades
- Verify vessel tonnage from documentation (not length or weight)
Seasonal Considerations:
- Massachusetts charter season: April-October peak
- Schedule courses during off-season (November-March)
- Account for processing times before spring season
- Renewal timing to avoid high-season expiration
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Documentation Errors:
- Self-signed sea service forms (must be signed by vessel owner or licensed captain)
- Incorrect or missing vessel GRT on forms
- Confusing GRT (Gross Register Tons) with vessel length or displacement
- Insufficient detail on vessel routes and activities
Compliance Issues:
- Operating charter without Massachusetts DMF for-hire permit
- Carrying >6 passengers on OUPV license
- Operating on lapsed/expired license
- Missing state-specific fishing permits for charter operations
- Letting TWIC expire during license validity period
Renewal Problems:
- Insufficient sea service documentation for 5-year renewal
- Expired medical exam at time of renewal submission
- Missing CPR/First Aid certification
- Not starting TWIC renewal early enough (4-6 week process)
Contact Information
Federal USCG Resources
National Maritime Center (NMC)
- Website: https://www.dco.uscg.mil/nmc/
- Phone: 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662)
- Email: iasknmc@uscg.mil
- Function: Application processing, credential issuance, general inquiries
USCG REC Boston
- Website: https://www.dco.uscg.mil/nmc/recs/#Boston
- Email: recbos@uscg.mil
- Address: 427 Commercial Street, Boston, MA 02109
- Function: Local application submission, exam proctoring, Massachusetts-specific guidance
USCG Sector Boston
- Phone: (617) 223-5900
- Function: Licensing questions, vessel inspections, maritime safety
TWIC Program
- Website: https://universalenroll.dhs.gov
- Phone: 1-855-347-8371
- Function: Transportation Worker Identification Credential enrollment
Massachusetts State Resources
Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF)
- Website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/division-of-marine-fisheries
- For-Hire Permits: (617) 626-1520
- Function: Charter & Head Boat Endorsement, Saltwater For-Hire Fishing Permit
Massachusetts Environmental Police
- Phone: (800) 632-8075
- Function: Boating regulations, vessel registration, enforcement
Massachusetts Port Authority
- Phone: (617) 568-5000
- Function: Boston Harbor operations, commercial vessel permits
Final Recommendations
For New Massachusetts Captains:
- Obtain OUPV with Near Coastal endorsement as foundation
- Complete all Massachusetts DMF permit requirements before first charter
- Budget $1,500-$2,000 for initial licensing and permits
- Choose training provider with strong Massachusetts waters focus
- Document all sea time meticulously from start
For License Upgrades:
- Verify vessel GRT requirements before committing to upgrade
- Near Coastal 100-Ton opens most Massachusetts commercial opportunities
- Time upgrades during off-season to minimize lost charter revenue
- Ensure sufficient qualifying sea service before enrolling in upgrade course
For Massachusetts Charter Operations:
- USCG license alone insufficient; obtain all state permits
- Maintain liability insurance (minimum $300,000 recommended)
- Stay current on Stellwagen Bank and protected species regulations
- Join Massachusetts charter captain associations for networking and regulatory updates
- Plan renewals 12 months in advance to avoid seasonal disruptions
This complete guide provides everything needed to obtain, upgrade, or renew your USCG captain’s license in Massachusetts, including all federal requirements and Massachusetts-specific permits for successful charter boat operations in Boston Harbor, Cape Cod, and New England coastal waters.