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Is Mariners Learning System Coast Guard-Approved?Updated a month ago

Mariners Learning System: Officially Coast Guard-Approved Since 2002

How can I verify that you are Coast Guard-approved?

Mariners Learning System is officially approved by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to satisfy the written examination requirement for obtaining a United States captain’s license.

After you successfully complete our online course and pass the final exam, you have fulfilled the Coast Guard’s written testing requirement. You do not need to take an additional exam at a Coast Guard Regional Exam Center (REC).

Instead, you will submit your Mariners Learning System certificate along with the rest of your application materials to the National Maritime Center (NMC) for license issuance.

If you would like to independently verify our approval status, please follow the steps below:

  1. Visit the official U.S. Coast Guard-approved course list here
  2. Page numbers may vary daily as the document updates, but typically you can find us around pages 330–350
  3. Look for the listing under: Mariners School 
  4. Confirm the affiliated details:


Why does it matter that Mariners Learning System is Coast Guard-approved? 

It matters because Coast Guard approval determines whether your course completion will actually count toward earning your Captain’s License.

Here’s why that’s important:

1. Your Course Meets Federal Standards

A Coast Guard-approved course must meet strict requirements for:

  • Curriculum content

  • Instruction standards

  • Testing procedures

  • Record keeping and compliance

This ensures you are learning the exact material required by the National Maritime Center (NMC).

2. You Do Not Have to Test at a Regional Exam Center (REC)

When you complete a Coast Guard-approved course and pass the final exam, you have satisfied the Coast Guard’s written testing requirement.

That means:

  • No additional testing at an REC

  • No separate Coast Guard proctored exam

  • No duplicate testing

Your certificate replaces the need to test at a Coast Guard facility.

3. Your Certificate Is Accepted by the National Maritime Center

Only certificates from Coast Guard-approved schools are accepted as proof that you completed the required written examination.

Without approval, you would still be required to test directly with the Coast Guard.

4. You Protect Your Time and Investment

Choosing a non-approved course could mean:

  • Paying twice

  • Studying twice

  • Delaying your license

Coast Guard approval ensures your effort counts the first time.

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