Mariners Learning System logo
Mariners Learning System logo
All articles

Medical Certificate IssuedUpdated a month ago

What to Expect After Your Medical Certificate Is Issued

The National Maritime Center (NMC) began issuing most medical certificates electronically by email on April 1, 2026. For mariners, this means medical certificates are now typically delivered faster and more directly than under the previous mailing process. Medical certificates without a medical waiver are now sent by email as the standard delivery method.

Here is an example of the new e-medical certificate: 


Will my medical certificate be mailed to me or emailed?

For most new medical certificates without a medical waiver, the National Maritime Center now sends them by email as the standard delivery method. This change took effect on April 1, 2026. Mariners should make sure the NMC has a current and valid email address on file so the certificate can be delivered electronically.


Are emailed medical certificates valid?

Yes. Emailed medical certificates are valid, but they must be signed to be valid. The NMC recommends printing the certificate and keeping a signed copy for your records and use. Certificates are delivered as standard 8.5-inch by 11-inch PDF documents, making them easy to print and store. 

How to e-Sign Your Medical Certificate (Mobile Phone)

With the right electronic signature app, you can digitally sign your certificate on a mobile device (iPhone or Android) easily, legally, and securely.  Several free electronic signature services exist that offer legally binding e-signatures for documents.  Examples include  OpenSign (unlimited free), SignWell (limited free docs), DigiSigner, and Adobe Acrobat Fill & Sign. 


Will I receive both an emailed copy and a mailed copy?

No. Mariners should generally expect one delivery method, not both. Medical certificates are emailed when possible. A certificate would be mailed instead only when email delivery is not possible, when there is no valid email address on file, or when the certificate falls under a category that is still being handled through the current mailing process. This helps streamline delivery and avoid duplicate issuance.


Do I get to choose my delivery preference?

No. Medical certificates are now generally sent by email as the standard delivery method. To receive your certificate electronically, you should provide a valid email address with your CG-719K or CG-719K/E application. If no valid email address is provided, the certificate will be mailed in accordance with standard procedures.


Are there any new features to the new medical certificates?

New medical certificates include a QR code as a built-in security feature.  Once the code is scanned, users will be directed to the National Maritime Center Credential Verification tool to confirm the validity of the certificate.


What if my medical certificate shows as issued, but I have not received it?

First, use the NMC online status tool to confirm your certificate shows as “Issued.” If it does, you should contact the NMC Customer Service Center and request that the certificate be resent. The NMC states that you do not need to submit a new application or affidavit in order to have an issued certificate resent.


What should I do if I do not see the email?

The National Maritime Center recommends taking a few simple troubleshooting steps before contacting customer service.

  • Allowing time for delivery
  • Checking your spam or junk folder
  • Try a personal device or email if your organization blocks PDF attachments
  • Using a PDF reader, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader, if the file will not open


Are certificates with medical waivers emailed, too?

Not yet. The March 26, 2026, announcement explains that email delivery for medical certificates that include medical waivers is still in development. The April 8, 2026, guidance confirms that these certificates will continue to be mailed for now until electronic delivery for waiver cases is implemented.


Where can I read all the announcements and stay up to date?

To read the full National Maritime Center announcements, click on the following links: 

You can keep up-to-date on future announcements by going to the National Maritime Center's homepage and scrolling down to its announcements section.

Was this article helpful?
Yes
No