US Coast Guard will track mariner training electronically, ending paper forms

The US Coast Guard now requires training providers to submit student course completion data electronically within five business days. This means the Coast Guard can quickly verify mariner qualifications when people apply for a Merchant Mariner Credential.

For years, verifying a mariner's training involved paper records and manual checks, which slowed down the credentialing process. This shift to electronic submission removes a major bottleneck, making it faster for qualified mariners to get their credentials. It also means the Coast Guard can more easily audit training providers and ensure compliance.