Study guide
The six-pack captain's license
The OUPV endorsement lets you operate uninspected passenger vessels carrying six or fewer passengers. Here's what the regulations ask for, in plain words.
What it covers
- Vessels of less than 100 GRT with propulsion machinery of any type, carrying six or fewer passengers (46 CFR 11.467(a)).
- A near-coastal endorsement covers domestic near-coastal waters not more than 100 miles offshore, the Great Lakes and all inland waters (11.467(b)).
- An inland endorsement covers all inland waters except the Great Lakes (11.467(b)).
- No OUPV endorsement is valid for international voyages (National Maritime Center).
What you need
| Requirement | What the regulation says | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 18 or older | 46 CFR 11.201(e)(2)(v) |
| Near-coastal service | At least 12 months of experience operating vessels, including at least 3 months on ocean or near-coastal waters | 11.467(c) |
| Great Lakes and inland service | 12 months on Great Lakes or inland waters, including at least 3 months on Great Lakes waters | 11.467(d) |
| Inland service | At least 12 months of experience operating vessels | 11.467(e) |
| Recent service | At least 3 months of required service within the 3 years before you apply, or the uniformed services alternative | 11.201(c)(1) |
| English | Able to speak and understand English as found in the navigation rules and related instructions. Puerto Rico has a Spanish-language exception | 11.201(b), 11.467(h) |
| Other qualifications | Experience, character, physical health, citizenship, approved training, professional competence, and a test for dangerous drugs | 11.201(a) |
How to apply
- Work out which route your service supports: near-coastal, Great Lakes and inland, or inland.
- Read the checklist for your endorsement on the National Maritime Center’s Charter Boat Captain page.
- Gather your documents. The center warns that missing information delays or rejects applications.
- Apply through your local Regional Exam Center.
- Prepare for the exam. Your Approval to Test letter sets the modules and marks.
Limited and restricted endorsements
A limited OUPV endorsement is for people employed by organizations such as formal camps, yacht clubs, educational institutions and marinas, and is limited to that activity and locality (11.467(f)). A restricted endorsement limits you to specific bodies of inland navigable water approved by the local Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (11.467(g)).
Common questions
Why is it called a six-pack license?
Because the OUPV endorsement covers carrying six or fewer passengers. OUPV stands for Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels.
How old do you have to be?
An OUPV endorsement may be granted at 18 (46 CFR 11.201(e)(2)(v)). Experience gained before age 16 generally doesn't count (46 CFR 11.201(c)(5)).
How much sea time do you need?
The regulation says a minimum of 12 months of experience in the operation of vessels, including 3 months on ocean or near-coastal waters for a near-coastal endorsement. Sea service is documented under 46 CFR 10.232, so check how yours counts before you apply.
Can I use an OUPV license on an international trip?
No. The National Maritime Center states that no OUPV endorsement is valid for international voyages.
Do you have to be a U.S. citizen?
Officer endorsements generally require citizenship, with an exception for operators of uninspected passenger vessels that are not documented under U.S. law (46 CFR 11.201(d)).
Start with the exam
Sea time takes as long as it takes. Studying doesn’t have to. Try the free practice test, then start Helm when you’re ready.
Start freeKeep studying
- Free OUPV practice testReal sample questions, each with its rule. No sign-up.
- Sound signalsEvery horn, bell and fog signal, with audio and citations.
- Lights and shapesWhat each vessel shows at night and by day.
- What the exam coversThe modules, and what to confirm in your letter.
- Rules of the roadWho gives way, and how Inland differs.
- BuoysRed right returning, and what each mark means.
Sources
- 46 CFR 11.467, OUPV requirements
- 46 CFR 11.201, general officer requirements
- 46 CFR 10.232, sea service documentation
- National Maritime Center, Charter Boat Captain
Helm is an independent study aid, not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Coast Guard or the National Maritime Center. This page is for study, not navigation guidance or legal advice. Check the current rules before you rely on anything here.