What's the new postdating of Merchant Mariner Credentials all about?

The Department of Homeland Security issued a rule in late 2013 that gave the U.S. Coast Guard the authority to postdate Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC)

up to eight months from the date of application.

When is the rule applicable?

This new rule became effective March 24, 2014. MMC renewal applications processed on or after March 24, 2014 may be issued a postdated MMC. Because of the new rule, the issue date of the each applicant’s credential will be postdated to the day following the date of expiration of his or her current MMC, but no more than eight months in the future.

These new rules regarding postdated MMCs apply to you if you are applying for an MMC renewal (not an original MMC and not if any other credential activity is requested).

Postdating MMC Details

In the National Maritime Center’s (NMC) memo, Postdating of Merchant Mariner Credentials, USCG Captain J. P. Novotny goes over some of the important facts about the new rule:

• The NMC will automatically postdate MMCs with the appropriate future date (that is, unless, you send in a written request asking for immediate issuance).
• MMCs will be valid from the date of issuance, and remain effective for five years.
• The NMC cannot postdate an MMC more than eight months from the time of application. If your current credential will still be valid in eight months, your new MMC postdate will be eight months from the day your application is accepted.
• The new rules only apply to applications sent in on or after March 24, 2014. Those sent in prior to that date will be processed according to the old delayed issuance procedures.

The memo also explains that “any transactions initiated after a postdated MMC has been approved and mailed will result in endorsement labels being printed and mailed for both the mariner’s active MMC and the postdated MMC. Mariners must ensure that the endorsement labels are properly placed in the appropriate MMC.”

Mariner’s Responsibilities

When you receive a postdated MMC, keep in mind that it doesn’t become valid until the printed issue date not the actual day that you receive your MMC documentation. You have to carry your current credential until the date printed on your new MMC.

It’s your responsibility to put your new postdated MMC in safekeeping. If you happen to lose it, you’ll need to go through the USCG’s procedures for obtaining a duplicate, a process covered in 46 CFR Part 10.231.

These new rules regarding postdated MMC renewals essentially nullify the need for mariners to request delayed issuance. Therefore, as of March 24, 2014, the USCG will no longer accept requests for delayed issuance.

Keeping Your Documents in Order

As mentioned, it’s important to keep your postdated MMCs in safekeeping, along with all your other vessel documentation.

Ensure you keep accurate, detailed logbooks to meet the USCG’s regulations and keep those safe, as well. If you’re in need of logbooks for your vessel, My Vessel Logs is your go-to shop; we have been supplying mariners with top-quality supplies since 1970. If you’re not sure which logbooks you need, check out our free reference guide.

Feel free to peruse our selection of premium logbooks that meet the USCG’s standards. Order online or contact us at (888) 468-3757 to place an order.