The U.S. Coast Guard Mariner Credentialing Program (MCP) Transformation is a comprehensive reform of merchant mariner credentialing aimed at meeting the needs of the maritime industry by removing obsolete requirements, integrating modern training technology, and introducing digital-first tools.
At the core of the MCP Transformation is the development of Navita™, a modern, streamlined credentialing system. In addition to Navita™, the MCP Transformation focuses efforts on modernizing mariner examinations, the use of maritime simulators in training, and deregulatory actions to reduce undue burdens on the maritime industry.
Mariners and maritime stakeholders can stay informed on progress by visiting the National Maritime Center (NMC) website for updates and announcements.
Maritime Simulator Study
The Coast Guard partnered with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Volpe National Transportation Center to study how simulator-based training and assessments of competence may be applied to meet certain sea service requirements.
Modernization Of Mariner Examinations
The Coast Guard completed a job task analysis to ensure credentialing examinations reflect the mariner duties and responsibilities required on modern U.S. vessels. The Coast Guard is also planning a transition from a paper-based examination process to an electronic format.
Deregulatory Actions
The Coast Guard is considering deregulatory actions and policy changes to reduce burdens on mariners and the maritime industry. Areas of consideration include alternate methods for meeting sea service requirements, eliminating excessive training requirements for certain endorsements, and streamlining processes and requirements for maritime training and course approvals.
Application Submission And Additional Information Portal
In January 2026, the NMC launched the online ASAP to improve customer service until Navita™ becomes operational. This portal gives mariners more direct control over their credential transactions, simplifying the submission process, and minimizing wait times.
E-Mail Delivery Of Medical Certificates
The Coast Guard transitioned to e-mail delivery in April 2026, simplifying the process, eliminating mailing delays, and providing mariners with faster, reliable access to their medical certificate.