The Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing has clarified key details regarding its policy exempting eligible military personnel from Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) fees, providing necessary information for applicants navigating the process. The underlying policy, CG-MMC Policy Letter 03-24, became effective Nov. 4, 2024, and eliminates standard MMC application fees, including evaluation, examination, and issuance costs, for qualifying service members.
This Military Fee Exemption applies to members currently serving on Active Duty in any Uniformed Service (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, Coast Guard, NOAA Corps, USPHS) and members of the Selected Reserve components as defined in the policy letter. The exemption directly supports historic and new executive orders aimed at easing the pathway for military personnel into the maritime industry.
To qualify, applicants must submit documentation with their MMC application package that verifies their eligible status. The policy letter lists several acceptable documents, including Active Duty Orders citing Titles 10 or 14, a History of Assignments (HOA), a Transcript of Sea Service (TOSS), or a valid Active Duty Military ID, such as a Common Access Card (CAC). Utilizing these standard documents simplifies the process, as applicants no longer need to obtain a specific, separate fee waiver memo from their command, which could previously be difficult for some personnel to acquire.
The Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing clarified the timing requirements associated with these documents. For most standard forms of proof like orders, CACs, or HOAs, the document's original issue date is not critical; the document simply needs to effectively demonstrate the applicant holds the required qualifying status at the time they submit their application. The policy only imposes a specific recency requirement on one type of document: if an applicant uses a letter or memo from their command or personnel office as proof of status (as outlined in paragraph 5.c.8 of the policy letter), that specific letter must be dated within 180 days prior to the application submission date.
The policy also clearly defines the eligibility window based on the applicant's service status. An individual qualifies for the exemption if they hold the required Active Duty or Selected Reserve status on the date their MMC application is submitted. Additionally, the policy includes a provision for recently separated individuals: those whose qualifying status ended can still receive the Military Fee Exemption if they submit their MMC application within 180 days following their date of separation. This 180-day lookback period provides a practical timeframe for veterans transitioning out of service to apply and benefit from the exemption. Understanding these documentation and timing rules allows eligible military members and recent veterans to accurately prepare their applications and take advantage of this cost-saving measure.
