Main Boilers..............  P-T         ..........  P-T         ..........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Auxiliary Boilers.........  ..........  P-T         ..........  P-T         .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        P          P          .........  P          P-T        P-T
    Feedwater Systems.........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P          P          P-T        .........  P-T        P
    Condensate Systems........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P           P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T        .........  P-T        P
    Recovery Systems..........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P           P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P          P          P-T        .........  P-T        P
    Fuel......................  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P-T        P-T
    Fuel Systems..............  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P-T        P-T
    Boiler Water..............  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P-T        P          P          P          P-T        .........  P-T        P
    Control Systems...........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P          P          P-T        P-T

    Automation Systems........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P          P          P-T        .........  P-T
    Safety....................  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P          P-T        P          P-T        P
    Casualty Control..........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P          P-T        P          P-T        P
Steam Engines:
    Main Turbine..............  P-T         ..........  P-T         ..........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Auxiliary Turbine.........  P-T         P           P-T         P           P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Reciprocating Machines....  P-T         ..........  P-T         ..........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Governor Systems..........  P-T         P           P-T         P           P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Control Systems...........  P-T         P           P-T         P           P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Automation Systems........  P-T         ..........  P-T         ..........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Lubrication Systems.......  P-T         P           P-T         P           P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Drive Systems.............  P-T         ..........  P-T         ..........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Safety....................  P-T         P           P-T         P           P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
    Casualty Control..........  P-T         P           P-T         P           P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        .........  P-T        .........  .........  .........  P-T
Motor:
    Main Engines..............  ..........  P-T         ..........  P-T         .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T
    Auxiliary Engines.........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P
    Starting Systems..........  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        P-T        P
    Lubrication Systems.......  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P
    Fuel......................  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P
    Fuel Systems..............  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P
    Combustion Systems........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        P          P
    Intake Systems............  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        P          P
    Exhaust Systems...........  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        P          P
    Cooling Systems...........  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        P          P
    Supercharging Systems.....  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T
    Drive Systems.............  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        .........  P-T        .........  P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        P          P
    Control Systems...........  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        P          P-T
    Automation Systems........  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        P-T        P-T
    Governors.................  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-T        P          P
    Turbines..................  P           P-T         P           P-T         P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P          P-T        P-T        P-T        .........  P-         P          P
    Safety....................  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T
    Casualty Control..........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T
Safety:
    Fire......................  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T
    Fire Prevention...........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T
    Fire Fighting.............  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T
    Flooding..................  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
    Dewatering................  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
    Stability and Trim........  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
    Damage Control............  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
Emergency Equipment and
 Lifesaving Appliances:
    General Safety............  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
    First Aid.................  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
    Dangerous Materials.......  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
    Pollution.................  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
    Inspections and Surveys...  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
    US Rules and Regulations..  P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
    International Rules and     P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T         P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P-T        P          P          P-T        P-T
     Regulations.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
P=Practical Knowledge.
T=Theoretical Knowledge.

Sec. Sec.  11.1001-11.1005 (Subpart J)  [Removed and Reserved]

    133. Remove and reserve subpart J, consisting of Sec. Sec.  11.1001
through 11.1005.

Sec. Sec.  11.1101-11.1105 (Subpart K)  [Removed and Reserved]

    134. Remove and reserve subpart K, consisting of Sec. Sec.  11.1101
through 11.1105.
    135. Revise part 12 to read as follows:

PART 12--REQUIREMENTS FOR RATING ENDORSEMENTS

Subpart A--General
Sec.
12.101 Purpose.
12.103 Incorporation by reference.
12.105 Paperwork approval.
Subpart B--General Requirements for Rating Endorsements
12.201 General provisions respecting rating endorsements and STCW
endorsements.
12.203 Examination procedures and denial of rating and STCW
endorsements.
Subpart C--Approved and Accepted Training
12.301 Coast Guard-accepted training other than approved courses.
Subpart D--Deck Ratings
12.410 Categories of able seaman (A/B) endorsements.
12.412 General requirements for able seaman (A/B) endorsements.
12.414 Service or training requirements for able seaman (A/B)
endorsements.
12.416 Examination and demonstration of ability for able seaman (A/
B) endorsements.
12.418 General provisions respecting endorsements for service as
able seaman.
12.420 General requirements for rating forming part of a
navigational watch (RFPNW).
Subpart E--Engineering Ratings
12.510 General requirements for qualified member of the engine
department (QMED).
12.512 Physical and medical requirements.
12.514 Service or training requirements.
12.516 Examination requirements.
12.518 General provisions respecting an endorsement as qualified
member of the engineering department (QMED).
12.520 Deck engine mechanic.
12.522 Engineman.
12.530 General requirements for rating forming part of an
engineering watch (RFPEW).
Subpart F--Specialty Ratings
12.610 Qualification requirements for a lifeboatman endorsement.
12.620 Certificates of proficiency in fast rescue boats.
12.630 Qualification requirements for survivalman.
12.640 Required documentary evidence as persons designated to
provide medical care onboard ship.
12.650 Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) at-sea
maintainer.
Subpart G--Entry Level and Miscellaneous Ratings
12.702 Credentials required for entry level and miscellaneous
ratings.
12.704 General requirements.
12.706 Physical and medical requirements.
12.710 Members of the Cadet Corps of the U.S. Merchant Marine
Academy.
12.720 Student observers.
12.730 Apprentice engineers.
12.740 Apprentice mate.
Subpart H--Non-Resident Alien Unlicensed Members of the Steward's
Department on U.S.-Flag Large Passenger Vessels
12.801 Purpose.
12.803 General requirements.
12.805 Employer requirements.
12.807 Basis for denial.
12.809 Citizenship and identity.
12.811 Restrictions.
12.813 Alternative means of compliance.

    Authority:  31 U.S.C. 9701; 46 U.S.C. 2101, 2103, 2110, 7301,
7302, 7503, 7505, 7701, and 70105; Department of Homeland Security
Delegation No. 0170.1.

Subpart A--General

Sec.  12.101  Purpose.

    The purpose of this part is to provide--
    (a) A comprehensive and adequate means of determining and verifying
the professional qualifications an applicant must possess to be
eligible for certification to serve on merchant vessels of the United
States; and
    (b) A means of determining that an applicant is qualified to
receive the endorsement required by the STCW Convention.

Sec.  12.103  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice of
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to
the public. All approved material is available for inspection at the
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call<PHONE_NUMBER> or go to
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_
regulations/ibr_locations.html. Also, it is available for inspection
at the Coast Guard, Office of Operating and Environmental Standards
(CG-5221), 2100 Second Street SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001, and is
available from the sources indicated in this section.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO), 4 Albert Embankment,
London SE1 7SR, England:
    (1) The International Convention on Standards of Training,
Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (the
STCW Convention), incorporation by reference approved for Sec. Sec.
12.620, and 12.640.
    (2) The Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Code as
amended (the STCW Code), incorporation by reference approved for
Sec. Sec.  12.420, 12.530, 12.602, and 12.640.

Sec.  12.105  Paperwork approval.

    (a) This section lists the control numbers assigned by the Office
of Management and Budget under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980
(Pub. L. 96-511) for the reporting and record keeping requirements in
this part.
    (b) The following control numbers have been assigned to the
sections indicated:
    (1) OMB 1625-0079-46 CFR 12.217 and 12.301.
    (2) [Reserved]

Subpart B--General Requirements for Rating Endorsements

Sec.  12.201  General provisions respecting rating endorsements and
STCW endorsements.

    (a) An MMC issued to a deck or engineer officer will be endorsed
for all entry level ratings and any other ratings for which they
qualify.
    (b) The authorized holder of any valid rating endorsement may serve
in any capacity in the staff department of a vessel, except in those
capacities requiring a staff officer; except that whenever the service
includes the handling of food, no person may be so employed unless his
or her credential bears the food handler's endorsement ``(F.H.)''.
    (c) When an applicant meets the requirements for certification set
forth in this part, the Coast Guard will issue the appropriate
endorsement. The Coast Guard will also issue an STCW endorsement to
qualified applicants for any of the following ratings or
qualifications:
    (1) Rating forming part of a navigational watch (RFPNW);
    (2) Rating forming part of a watch in a manned engine room or
designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned engine room
(RFPEW);
    (3) Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats, other than fast
rescue boats;
    (4) Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than
lifeboats and fast rescue boats;

    (5) Proficiency in fast rescue boats;
    (6) Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) operator;
    (7) GMDSS at-sea maintainer;
    (8) Medical first aid provider; or
    (9) Person-in-charge of medical care.
    (d) Basic safety training or instruction. Applicants serving on
seagoing vessels must meet the requirements of Sec.  15.1105 of this
subchapter.
    (e) Except as otherwise noted in this part, applicants for a rating
and/or associated STCW endorsement must be at least 16 years of age.

Sec.  12.203  Examination procedures and denial of rating and STCW
endorsements.

    (a) Upon receipt of application for a rating endorsement, the Coast
Guard will give any required examination as soon as practicable after
determining that the applicant is otherwise qualified for the
endorsement.
    (b) An applicant for a rating endorsement who has been duly
examined and refused the endorsement by the Coast Guard may seek
reexamination at any time after the date of the initial examination.
The Coast Guard sets the time of reexamination based on the applicant's
performance on the initial examination. However, the maximum waiting
period after the initial failure will be 30 days, and the maximum
waiting period after a second or subsequent failure will be 90 days.
    (c) Upon receipt of an application for an STCW endorsement, the
Coast Guard will evaluate the applicant's qualifications. The Coast
Guard will issue the appropriate endorsement after determining that the
applicant satisfactorily meets all requirements for any requested STCW
rating or qualification.

Subpart C--Approved and Accepted Training

Sec.  12.301  Coast Guard-accepted training other than approved
courses.

    Coast Guard-accepted training for other than approved courses must
meet the requirements found in 46 CFR part 10 subpart C.

Subpart D--Deck Ratings

Sec.  12.410  Categories of able seaman (A/B) endorsements.

    The following categories of able seaman endorsements are
established:
    (a) Able seaman--any waters, unlimited.
    (b) Able seaman--limited.
    (c) Able seaman--special.
    (d) Able seaman--special (OSV).

Sec.  12.412  General requirements for able seaman (A/B) endorsements.

    To qualify for an endorsement as able seaman an applicant must:
    (a) Be at least 18 years of age;
    (b) Pass the prescribed physical and medical examination
requirements specified in Sec.  10.215 of this subchapter;
    (c) Present evidence of having passed a chemical test for dangerous
drugs or of qualifying for an exemption from testing described in Sec.
16.220 of this subchapter;
    (d) Meet the sea service or training requirements set forth in this
part;
    (e) Pass an examination demonstrating ability as an able seaman;
    (f) Hold or be qualified to hold an endorsement as lifeboatman or
survivalman; and
    (g) Speak and understand the English language as would be required
in performing the general duties of able seaman and during an emergency
aboard ship.

Sec.  12.414  Service or training requirements for able seaman (A/B)
endorsements.

    (a) The minimum service required to qualify an applicant for the
various categories of endorsement as able seaman is:
    (1) Able seaman--any waters, unlimited. Three years of service on
deck on vessels operating on the oceans or the Great Lakes.
    (2) Able seaman--limited. Eighteen months of service on deck on
vessels of 100 GRT/250 GT or over which operate in a service not
exclusively confined to the rivers and smaller inland lakes of the
United States.
    (3) Able seaman--special. Twelve months of service on deck on
vessels operating on the oceans or the navigable waters of the United
States including the Great Lakes.
    (4) Able seaman--special (OSV). Six months of service on deck on
vessels operating on the oceans or the navigable waters of the United
States including the Great Lakes.
    (b) Training programs approved by the Coast Guard may be
substituted for the required periods of service on deck as follows:
    (1) A graduate of a school ship may be rated as able seaman upon
satisfactory completion of the course of instruction. For this purpose,
school ship is interpreted to mean an institution which offers a
complete approved course of instruction, including a period of at sea
training, in the skills appropriate to the rating of able seaman.
    (2) Training programs, other than those classified as a school
ship, may be substituted for up to one-third of the required service on
deck. The service/training ratio for each program is determined by the
Coast Guard, which may allow a maximum of 3 days on deck service credit
for each day of instruction.

Sec.  12.416  Examination and demonstration of ability for able seaman
(A/B) endorsements.

    (a) Before an applicant is issued an endorsement as an able seaman,
he or she must prove to the satisfaction of the Coast Guard by oral or
other means of examination, and by actual demonstration, his or her
knowledge of seamanship and the ability to carry out effectively all
the duties that may be required of an able seaman, including those of a
lifeboatman or survivalman.
    (b) The examination, whether administered orally or by other means,
must be conducted only in the English language and must consist of
questions regarding:
    (1) The applicant's knowledge of nautical terms; use of the compass
for navigation; running lights, passing signals, and fog signals for
vessels on the high seas, inland waters, or Great Lakes depending upon
the waters on which the applicant has had service; and distress
signals; and
    (2) The applicant's knowledge of commands in handling the wheel by
obeying orders passed to him or her as wheelsman, and knowledge of the
use of engine-room telegraph.
    (c) The applicant must demonstrate knowledge of the principal
knots, bends, splices, and hitches in common use by actually making
them.
    (d) The applicant must demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the
Coast Guard, knowledge of pollution laws and regulations, procedures
for discharge containment and cleanup, and methods for disposal of
sludge and waste material from cargo and fueling operations.

Sec.  12.418  General provisions respecting endorsements for service as
able seamen.

    (a) The holder of an MMC or MMD endorsed for the rating of able
seamen may serve in any rating in the deck department without obtaining
an additional endorsement, provided:
    (1) That the holder possesses an endorsement showing that he or she
is qualified for the survival equipment installed on the vessel; and
    (2) That the holder possesses the appropriate STCW endorsement when
serving as an RFPNW on a seagoing ship of 200 GRT/500 GT or more.
    (b) After [EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS FINAL RULE] any MMC endorsed as
able seaman (A/B) will also be endorsed

as lifeboatman or survivalman, as appropriate.
    (c) The A/B endorsement will clearly describe the type of rating
which it represents (See Sec.  12.410 of this subpart).

Sec.  12.420  General requirements for ratings forming part of a
navigational watch (RFPNW).

    To qualify for an STCW endorsement as an RFPNW on a seagoing vessel
of 200 GRT/500 GT or more, an applicant must:
    (a) Meet the medical and physical requirements found in Sec.
10.215 of this subchapter;
    (b) Provide evidence of having passed a chemical test for dangerous
drugs or of qualifying for an exemption from testing described in Sec.
16.220 of this subchapter;
    (c) Provide evidence of service as follows:
    (1)(i) Six months of approved, seagoing service that includes
training and experience associated with navigational watchkeeping
functions and involving the performance of duties carried out under the
supervision of an OICNW or a qualified deck rating; and
    (ii) At least one-half of the required experience must be obtained
on vessels of at least 200 GRT/500 GT; or
    (2) Proof of successful completion of a course approved or accepted
as special training required by the STCW Convention and a period of
approved seagoing service. The length of approved seagoing service will
be specified as part of the course's approval; and
    (d) The applicant must receive training and satisfactorily complete
assessments necessary to meet the standards of competence prescribed in
table A-II/4 of the STCW Code (incorporated by reference in Sec.
12.103). The assessment criteria is published by the Coast Guard, and
the training must include:
    (1) Steering the ship and complying with helm orders;
    (2) Keeping a proper look-out by sight and hearing;
    (3) Contributing to monitoring and controlling a safe watch; and
    (4) Operating emergency equipment and applying emergency
procedures.

Subpart E--Engineer Ratings

Sec.  12.510  General requirements for a qualified member of the engine
department (QMED).

    (a) A qualified member of the engine department (QMED) is any
person below officer and above the rating of coal passer or wiper who
holds an MMC or MMD endorsed as QMED by the Coast Guard.
    (b) For purposes of administering this part, the rating of
assistant electrician is considered a rating equal to coal passer or
wiper.
    (c) To be eligible for an endorsement as QMED, an applicant must be
able to speak and understand the English language relevant to the
duties of a QMED or in an emergency aboard ship.
    (d) An applicant for QMED seeking an STCW endorsement as RFPEW must
also meet the standards of competence as required in Sec.  12.530 of
this part.

Sec.  12.512  Physical and medical requirements.

    The physical and medical requirements for an endorsement as QMED
are found in Sec.  10.215 of this subchapter.

Sec.  12.514  Service or training requirements.

    (a) An applicant for an endorsement as QMED must furnish the Coast
Guard proof of qualification based on 6 months of service in a rating
at least equal to that of wiper or coal passer.
    (b) Training programs approved by the Coast Guard, may be
substituted for the required sea service for QMED such as:
    (1) A graduate of an approved training program aboard a school ship
may qualify for a rating endorsement as QMED without further service
upon satisfactory completion of the appropriate training program.
    (2) Approved courses other than those classified as a school ship
may be substituted for up to one-half of the required sea service.

Sec.  12.516  Examination requirements.

    (a) Each applicant for endorsement as a QMED in the rating of
oiler, watertender, fireman, deck engineer, refrigeration engineer,
junior engineer, electrician, or machinist must be examined orally or
by other means and only in the English language on the subjects listed
in paragraph (b) of this section. The applicant's general knowledge of
the subjects must be sufficient to satisfy the examiner that the
applicant is qualified to perform the duties of the rating for which he
or she makes application.
    (b) List of subjects required:

                                                                     Table 12.516(b)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     Refrigerating       Fireman/
             Subjects                 Machinist         engineer       watertender         Oiler         Electrician    Junior engineer   Deck engineer
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Application, maintenance, and                X                X                X                X                X                X                X
 use of hand tools and measuring
 instruments.....................
2. Uses of babbitt, copper,                     X                X                X                X                X                X                X
 brass, steel, and other metals..
3. Methods of measuring pipe,                   X                X                X                X                X                X                X
 pipe fittings, sheet metal,
 machine bolts and nuts, packing,
 etc.............................
4. Operation and maintenance of                 X   ...............               X                X                X                X                X
 mechanical remote control
 equipment.......................
5. Precautions to be taken for                  X                X                X                X                X                X                X
 the prevention of fire and the
 proper use of firefighting
 equipment.......................

6. Principles of mechanical        ...............               X   ...............               X   ...............               X   ...............
 refrigeration; and functions,
 operation, and maintenance of
 various machines and parts of
 the systems.....................
7. Knowledge of piping systems as  ...............               X   ...............  ...............  ...............               X   ...............
 used in ammonia, freon, and CO2,
 including testing for leaks,
 operation of bypasses, and
 making up of joints.............
8. Safety precautions to be                     X                X                X                X                X                X                X
 observed in the operation of
 various refrigerating systems,
 including storage of
 refrigerants, and the use of gas
 masks and firefighting equipment
9. Combustion of fuels, proper     ...............  ...............               X                X   ...............               X   ...............
 temperature, pressures, and
 atomization.....................
10. Operation of the fuel oil      ...............  ...............               X                X   ...............               X                X
 system on oil burning boilers,
 including the transfer and
 storage of fuel oil.............
11. Hazards involved and the                    X                X                X                X                X                X
 precautions taken against
 accumulation of oil in furnaces,
 bilges, floorplates, and tank
 tops; flarebacks, leaks in fuel
 oil heaters, clogged strainers
 and burner tips.................
12. Precautions necessary when     ...............  ...............               X                X   ...............               X
 filling empty boilers, starting
 up the fuel oil burning system,
 and raising steam from a cold
 boiler..........................
13. The function, operation, and                X                X                X                X                X                X
 maintenance of the various
 engineroom auxiliaries..........
14. Proper operation of the                     X                X                X                X                X                X                X
 various types of lubricating
 systems.........................
15. Safety precautions to be                    X                X                X                X                X                X                X
 observed in connection with the
 operation of engineroom
 auxiliaries, electrical
 machinery, and switchboard
 equipment.......................

16. The function, operation, and                X                X                X                X   ...............               X                X
 maintenance of the bilge,
 ballast, fire, freshwater,
 sanitary, and lubricating
 systems.........................
17. Proper care of spare machine                X                X                X                X                X                X                X
 parts and idle equipment........
18. The procedure in preparing a   ...............  ...............               X                X   ...............               X
 turbine, reciprocating, or
 Diesel engine for standby; also
 the procedure in securing.......
19. Operation and maintenance of   ...............  ...............               X                X   ...............               X
 the equipment necessary for the
 supply of water to boilers, the
 dangers of high and low water
 and remedial action.............
20. Operation, location, and                    X   ...............               X                X   ...............               X
 maintenance of the various
 boiler fittings and accessories.
21. The practical application and  ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............               X                X                X
 solution of basic electrical
 calculations (Ohm's law, power
 formula, etc.)..................
22. Electrical wiring circuits of  ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............               X                X                X
 the various two-wire and three-
 wire D.C. systems and the
 various single-phase and
 polyphase A.C. systems..........
23. Application and                ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............               X                X                X
 characteristics of parallel and
 series circuits.................
24. Application and maintenance    ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............               X                X                X
 of electrical meters and
 instruments.....................
25. The maintenance and            ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............               X                X                X
 installation of lighting and
 power wiring involving testing
 for, locating and correcting
 grounds, short circuits and open
 circuits, and making splices....
26. The operation and maintenance  ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............               X                X                X
 of the various types of
 generators and motors, both A.C.
 and D.C.........................
27. Operation, installation, and   ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............               X                X                X
 maintenance of the various types
 of electrical controls and
 safety devices..................

28. Testing and maintenance of     ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............               X                X
 special electrical equipment,
 such as telegraphs, telephones,
 alarm systems, fire-detecting
 systems, and rudder angle
 indicators......................
29. Rules and Regulations and      ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............               X                X                X
 requirements for installation,
 repair, and maintenance of
 electrical wiring and equipment
 installed aboard ships..........
29a. Pollution laws and                         X                X                X                X                X                X
 regulations, procedures for
 discharge containment and
 cleanup, and methods for
 disposal of sludge and waste
 from cargo and fueling
 operations......................
30. Such further examination of a               X                X                X                X                X                X                X
 nonmathematical character as the
 Officer in Charge, Marine
 Inspection, may consider
 necessary to establish the
 applicant's proficiency.........
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (c) Each applicant for an endorsement as a QMED in the rating of
pumpman must be examined to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the
subjects peculiar to that rating. The examination must be given only in
the English language.
    (d) An applicant for endorsement as QMED in the rating of deck
engine mechanic or engineman, who has proved eligibility for such
endorsement under either Sec.  12.520 or Sec.  12.522 of this part,
will not be required to take a written or oral examination for such
ratings.

Sec.  12.518  General provisions respecting an endorsement as a
qualified member of the engineering department (QMED).

    Each QMED rating must be endorsed separately, unless the applicant
qualifies for all QMED ratings, in which case the endorsement will read
``QMED--any rating.'' The ratings are:
    (a) Refrigerating engineer.
    (b) Oiler.
    (c) Deck engineer.
    (d) Fireman/Watertender.
    (e) Junior engineer.
    (f) Electrician.
    (g) Machinist.
    (h) Pumpman.
    (i) Deck engine mechanic.
    (j) Engineman.

Sec.  12.520  Deck engine mechanic.

    (a) An applicant for an endorsement as deck engine mechanic must
hold an MMC or MMD endorsed as junior engineer and furnish one of the
following:
    (1) Satisfactory documentary evidence of sea service of 6 months in
the rating of junior engineer on steam vessels of 4,000 HP/3,000 kW or
more; or,
    (2) Documentary evidence from an operator of an automated vessel
that the applicant has satisfactorily completed at least 4 weeks
indoctrination and training in the engine department of an automated
steam vessel of 4,000 HP/3,000 kW or more; or
    (3) Evidence of satisfactory completion of an approved training
course as deck engine mechanic.
    (b) When the applicant meets the requirements specified in this
section, the Coast Guard will add this rating endorsement to the
applicant's MMC.
    (c) Any holder of an MMC or MMD endorsed for any rating in the
engine department or QMED--any rating is qualified as a deck engine
mechanic, therefore, that endorsement will not be entered on his or her
credential.

Sec.  12.522  Engineman.

    (a) An applicant for an endorsement as engineman must hold an MMC
or MMD endorsed as fireman/watertender and oiler, or junior engineer.
The applicant will be eligible for such endorsement upon furnishing one
of the following:
    (1) Satisfactory documentary evidence of 6 months of sea service in
any one or combination of the following capacities on steam vessels of
4,000 HP/3,000 kW or over: junior engineer; fireman/watertender; or
oiler.
    (2) Documentary evidence from an operator of a partially automated
steam vessel that the applicant has satisfactorily completed at least 2
weeks of indoctrination and training in the engine department of a
partially automated steam vessel of 4,000 HP/3,000 kW or over; or
    (3) Proof of satisfactory completion of an approved training course
for engineman.
    (b) When an applicant for the rating of engineman meets the
requirements specified in this section, the Coast

Guard will add this rating endorsement to his or her MMC.
    (c) Any holder of an MMC or MMD endorsed for any rating in the
engine department, QMED--any rating or deck engine mechanic is
qualified as an engineman and that endorsement will not be entered on
his or her credential.

Sec.  12.530  General requirements for a rating forming part of an
engineering watch (RFPEW).

    (a) A rating forming part of an engineering watch (RFPEW) is any
person employed in the engine department, below the position of
licensed officer, who is responsible for standing a watch in a manned
engine room or who is designated to perform duties in a periodically
unmanned engine room on seagoing vessels with main propulsion machinery
of 1,000 HP/750 kW or more. It does not include a rating under training
and a rating whose duties are of an unskilled nature, such as a wiper
or other unskilled entry-level rating.
    (b) To qualify for an STCW endorsement as an RFPEW, an applicant
must meet the following requirements:
    (c) All applicants for an RFPEW endorsement must meet the medical
and physical requirements of Sec.  10.215 of this subchapter.
    (d) Applicants must have completed:
    (1) Six months of approved, seagoing service that includes training
and experience associated with engine room watchkeeping functions and
involves the performance of duties carried out under the supervision of
an engineer officer or a rating holding an RFPEW endorsement; or
    (2) A course approved, or accepted, as special training required by
the STCW Convention, and a period of approved seagoing service. The
length of approved seagoing service will be specified as part of the
course's approval.
    (e) Assessments. The applicant must satisfactorily complete
assessments prescribed in table A-III/4 of the STCW Code (incorporated
by reference Sec.  12.103). The assessment criteria is published by the
Coast Guard. The assessments include:
    (1) Carrying out a watch routine;
    (2) Understanding orders and being understood in matters relevant
to watchkeeping duties;
    (3) Maintaining the correct water levels and steam pressures
(required for certification to serve on steam vessels); and
    (4) Operating emergency equipment and applying emergency
procedures.

Subpart F--Specialty Ratings

Sec.  12.610  Qualification requirements for a lifeboatman endorsement.

    To qualify for a lifeboatman endorsement, and for an STCW
endorsement showing proficiency in survival craft including rescue
boats other than fast rescue boats, the applicant must:
    (a) Be at least 18 years of age;
    (b) Be able to speak and understand the English language as would
be relevant to the duties of a lifeboatman and for an emergency aboard
ship; and
    (c) Meet the following:
    (1) Pass the lifeboatman written exam; including questions on:
    (i) Lifeboats and liferafts, the names of their essential parts,
and a description and use of the required equipment;
    (ii) The clearing away, swinging out, and lowering of lifeboats and
liferafts, and handling of lifeboats under oars and sails, including
questions relative to the proper handling of a boat in a heavy sea; and
    (iii) The operation and functions of commonly used types of davits;
    (2) Participate in 24 abandon ship drills, eight of which must
include the boat being placed in the water and the mariner being
exercised in all means of propulsion;
    (3) In the presence of a designated examiner, demonstrate
knowledge, understanding, and proficiency in the following
competencies:
    (i) Taking charge of a survival craft and rescue boat during and
after launch;
    (ii) Operating a survival craft engine;
    (iii) Demonstrating the ability to row by actually pulling an oar
in the boat;
    (iv) Managing a survival craft and survivors after abandoning ship;
and
    (v) Using locating and communication devices;
    (4) Provide evidence of at least 6 months of sea service; and
    (5) Complete the first aid and personal survival technique elements
of BST, found in Sec.  15.1105(c)(1) of this subchapter; or
    (d) In lieu of the requirements in paragraph (c) of this part, an
applicant may successfully complete an approved training program that
includes a prescribed period of sea service.

Sec.  12.620  Certificates of proficiency in fast rescue boats.

    To be eligible for an MMC endorsed for proficiency in fast rescue
boats, an applicant must:
    (a) Be qualified as a lifeboatman with proficiency in survival
craft and rescue boats, other than fast rescue boats, under this
subpart;
    (b) Furnish satisfactory proof that he or she has met the
requirements for training and competence of STCW Regulation, VI/2,
paragraph 2, and the appropriate requirements of Section A-VI/2 of the
STCW Code (incorporated by reference in Sec.  12.103);
    (c) Participate in six drills that include a fast rescue boat being
placed in the water and the applicant performing man-overboard recovery
drills; and
    (d) Be successfully assessed in the demonstrations of the following
competencies before a designated examiner:
    (i) Taking charge of a fast rescue boat during and after launch;
and
    (ii) Operating a fast rescue boat engine.

Sec.  12.630  Qualification requirements for survivalman.

    To qualify as survivalman, and for an STCW endorsement showing
proficiency in survival craft except for lifeboats and fast rescue
boats, the applicant must:
    (a) Be at least 18 years of age;
    (b) Be able to speak and understand the English language as would
be relevant to the duties of a survivalman and for an emergency aboard
ship; and
    (c) Meet the following:
    (1) Pass the written exam for survivalman including questions on:
    (i) Liferafts, rescue boats and other survival craft except
lifeboats, the names of their essential parts, and a description and
use of the required equipment;
    (ii) The clearing away, launching, and handling of rescue craft
except lifeboats; and
    (iii) The operation and functions of commonly used launching
devices;
    (2) Participate in twelve rescue boat, liferaft, or other drills
involving lifesaving apparatus, four that include a rescue boat being
placed in the water and the mariner being exercised in rescue boat
drills;
    (3) In the presence of a designated examiner, demonstrate
knowledge, understanding, and proficiency in the following competences:
    (i) Taking charge of a rescue boat, liferaft, or other lifesaving
apparatus during and after launch;
    (ii) Operating a rescue boat engine;
    (iii) Managing a rescue boat and survivors; and
    (iv) Using locating and communication devices.
    (4) Obtain at least 6 months of sea service; and
    (5) Complete the first aid and personal survival technique elements
of BST as required in Sec.  15.1105(c)(1) of this subchapter.
    (d) In lieu of the requirements in paragraph (c) of this section,
an

applicant may successfully complete an approved training program,
including a prescribed period of sea service.

Sec.  12.640  Required documentary evidence for persons designated to
provide medical care onboard ship.

    (a) The Coast Guard will issue an STCW endorsement for medical
first aid provider or person-in-charge of medical care to an applicant
who provides evidence that establishes that he or she meets the
standards of competence set out in Section A-VI/4 of the STCW Code
(incorporated by reference in Sec.  12.103).
    (b) An applicant holding any of the following credentials is
qualified for an endorsement as person-in-charge of medical care:
    (1) A valid professional license listed in Sec.  11.807 (a)(5) or
(6) of this subchapter, without restriction or limitation placed upon
it by the issuing State, or
    (2) A rating listed in Sec.  11.807 (a)(7) or (8) of this
subchapter.

Sec.  12.650  Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) at-sea
maintainer.

    An applicant may qualify for an STCW endorsement as GMDSS at-sea
maintainer if he or she presents evidence of:
    (a) Passing a course specializing in the maintenance and repair of
radio electronics completed within five years of the date of
application, with additional documentation demonstrating that the
course is equivalent to the guidance in section B-IV/2 of the STCW
Code; or,
    (b) Passing an approved GMDSS at-sea maintainer course; and
    (c) Possessing a valid Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
certificate as GMDSS at-sea maintainer.

Subpart G--Entry Level and Miscellaneous Ratings

Sec.  12.702  Credentials required for entry level and miscellaneous
ratings.

    Every person employed in a rating other than able seaman (A/B) or
QMED aboard U.S.-flag vessels requiring such persons must produce an
MMC or MMD with the appropriate endorsement to the master or person in
charge (PIC), if appropriate, before signing shipping articles.

Sec.  12.704  General requirements.

    Rating endorsements will be issued without professional examination
to applicants in capacities other than able seaman, lifeboatman,
tankerman, or QMED--for example, ordinary seaman--wiper--steward's
department (F.H.). Holders of MMCs or MMDs endorsed as ordinary seaman
may serve in any unqualified rating in the deck or steward's department
except as a food handler. Holders of MMCs or MMDs endorsed as wiper may
serve in any unqualified rating in the engine or steward's department
except as a food handler. Only MMCs or MMDs endorsed as steward's
department (F.H.) will authorize the holder's service in any capacity
in the steward's department, including food handler. (See Sec.
12.201(b) of this part for unqualified ratings in the staff
department.)

Sec.  12.706  Physical and medical requirements.

    The physical and medical requirements for this subpart are found in
Sec.  10.215 of this subchapter.

Sec.  12.710  Members of the Cadet Corps of the U.S. Merchant Marine
Academy.

    No ratings other than cadet (deck) or cadet (engine), as
appropriate, and lifeboatman will be shown on an MMC issued to a member
of the U.S. Merchant Marine Cadet Corps. The MMC will also indicate
that it is valid only while the holder is a cadet in the U.S. Maritime
Administration training program. The MMC must be surrendered upon the
holder leaving the cadet corps, being endorsed in any other rating, or
upon being issued an officer's endorsement.

Sec.  12.720  Student observers.

    Students in technical schools who are enrolled in courses in marine
management and ship operations, and who present a letter or other
documentary evidence that they are enrolled, will be issued an MMC
endorsed as a student observer--any department and may be signed on
ships as such. Students holding these endorsements will not take the
place of any of the crew, or replace any of the regular required crew.

Sec.  12.730  Apprentice engineers.

    (a) Persons enrolled in an apprentice engineer training program
approved by the Coast Guard, and who present a letter or other
documentary evidence that they are enrolled, may be issued an MMC
endorsed as apprentice engineer and may be signed on ships as such. The
endorsement as apprentice engineer may be in addition to other
endorsements; however, this endorsement does not authorize the holder
to replace any of the regular required crew.
    (b) Persons holding the endorsement as apprentice engineer are
deemed to be seamen.

Sec.  12.740  Apprentice mate.

    (a) A person enrolled in an apprentice mate training program
approved by the Coast Guard who presents a letter or other documentary
evidence that he or she is enrolled may be issued an MMC endorsed as
apprentice mate and may be signed on a vessel as apprentice mate. The
endorsement as apprentice mate may be in addition to other
endorsements; however, this endorsement does not authorize the holder
to replace any of the regular required crew.
    (b) Persons holding the endorsement as apprentice mate are deemed
to be seamen.

Subpart H--Non-Resident Alien Unlicensed Members of the Steward's
Department on U.S.-Flag Large Passenger Vessels

Sec.  12.801  Purpose.

    The rules in this subpart implement 46 U.S.C. 8103(k) by
establishing requirements for the issuance of merchant mariner's
documents, valid only for service in the steward's department of U.S.-
flag large passenger vessels, to non-resident aliens.

Sec.  12.803  General requirements.

    (a) Unless otherwise expressly specified in this subpart, non-
resident alien applicants for Coast Guard-issued merchant mariner's
documents are subject to all applicable requirements contained in this
subchapter.
    (b) No application from a non-resident alien for a merchant
mariner's document issued pursuant to this subpart will be accepted
unless the applicant's employer satisfies all of the requirements of
Sec.  12.805 of this part.

Sec.  12.805  Employer requirements.

    (a) The employer must submit the following to the Coast Guard, as a
part of the applicant's merchant mariner's document (MMD) application,
on behalf of the applicant:
    (1) A signed report that contains all material disciplinary actions
related to the applicant, such as, but not limited to, violence or
assault, theft, drug and alcohol policy violations, and sexual
harassment, along with an explanation of the criteria used by the
employer to determine the materiality of those actions;
    (2) A signed report regarding an employer-conducted background
check. The report must contain:
    (i) A statement that the applicant has successfully undergone an
employer-conducted background check;
    (ii) A description of the employer-conducted background check,
including

all databases and records searched. The background check must, at a
minimum, show that the employer has reviewed all information reasonably
and legally available to the owner or managing operator, including the
review of available court and police records in the applicant's country
of citizenship, and any other country in which the applicant has
received employment referrals, or resided, for the past 20 years prior
to the date of application; and
    (iii) All information derived from the employer-conducted
background check.
    (3) The employer-conducted background check must be conducted to
the satisfaction of the Coast Guard for an MMD to be issued to the
applicant.
    (b) If an MMD is issued to the applicant, the report and
information required in paragraph (a)(2) of this section must be
securely kept by the employer on the U.S.-flag large passenger vessel,
or U.S. flag large passenger vessels, on which the applicant is
employed. The report and information must remain on the last U.S. flag
large passenger vessel on which the applicant was employed until such
time as the MMD is returned to the Coast Guard in accordance with
paragraph (d) of this section.
    (c) If an MMD or a transportation worker identification credential
(TWIC) is issued to the applicant, each MMD and TWIC must be securely
kept by the employer on the U.S. flag large passenger vessel on which
the applicant is employed. The employer must maintain a detailed record
of the seaman's total service on all authorized U.S. flag large
passenger vessels, and must make that information available to the
Coast Guard upon request, to demonstrate that the limitations of Sec.
12.811(c) of this part have not been exceeded.
    (d) In the event that the seaman's MMD and/or TWIC expires, the
seaman's visa status terminates, the seaman serves onboard the U.S.
flag large passenger vessel(s) for 36 months in the aggregate as a
nonimmigrant crewman, the employer terminates employment of the seaman,
or, if the seaman otherwise ceases working with the employer, the
employer must return the MMD to the Coast Guard and/or the TWIC to the
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) within 10 days of the
event.
    (e) In addition to the initial material disciplinary actions report
and the initial employer-conducted background check specified in
paragraph (a) of this section, the employer must:
    (1) Submit an annual material disciplinary actions report to update
whether there have been any material disciplinary actions related to
the applicant since the last material disciplinary actions report was
submitted to the Coast Guard.
    (i) The annual material disciplinary actions report must be
submitted to the satisfaction of the Coast Guard in accordance with the
same criteria set forth in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, except
that the period of time examined for the material disciplinary actions
report need only extend back to the date of the last material
disciplinary actions report; and
    (ii) The annual material disciplinary actions report must be
submitted to the Coast Guard on or before the anniversary of the
issuance date of the MMD.
    (2) Conduct a background check each year that the merchant
mariner's document is valid to search for any changes that might have
occurred since the last employer-conducted background check was
performed.
    (i) The annual background check must be conducted to the
satisfaction of the Coast Guard in accordance with the same criteria
set forth in paragraph (a)(2) of this section, except that the period
of time examined during the annual background check need only extend
back to the date of the last background check; and
    (ii) All information derived from the annual background check must
be submitted to the Coast Guard on or before the anniversary of the
issuance date of the MMD.
    (f) The employer is subject to the civil penalty provisions
specified in 46 U.S.C. 8103(f) for any violation of this section.

Sec.  12.807  Basis for denial.

    In addition to the requirements for a merchant mariner's document
established elsewhere in this subchapter, and the basis for denial
established in Sec. Sec.  10.209, 10.211, and 10.213 of this
subchapter, an applicant for a merchant mariner's document issued
pursuant to this subpart must:
    (a) Have been employed, for a period of at least 1 year, on a
foreign flag passenger vessel, or foreign flag passenger vessels, that
are under the same common ownership or control as the U.S. flag large
passenger vessel, or U.S. flag large passenger vessels, on which the
applicant will be employed upon issuance of an MMD under this subpart.
    (b) Have no record of material disciplinary actions during the
employment required under paragraph (a) of this section, as verified in
writing by the owner or managing operator of the U.S. flag large
passenger vessel, or U.S. flag large passenger vessels, on which the
applicant will be employed.
    (c) Have successfully completed an employer-conducted background
check to the satisfaction of both the employer and the Coast Guard.
    (d) Meet the citizenship and identity requirements of Sec.  12.809
of this part.

Sec.  12.809  Citizenship and identity.

    (a) In lieu of the requirements of Sec.  10.221 of this subchapter,
a non-resident alien may apply for a Coast Guard-issued merchant
mariner's document, endorsed and valid only for service in the
steward's department of a U.S. flag large passenger vessel as defined
in this subpart, if he or she is employable in the United States under
the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101, et seq.), including
an alien crewman described in section 101 (a)(15)(D)(i) of that Act.
    (b) To meet the citizenship and identity requirements of this
subpart, an applicant must present an unexpired passport issued by the
government of the country of which the applicant is a citizen or
subject; and either a valid U.S. C-1/D Crewman Visa or other valid U.S.
visa or authority deemed acceptable by the Coast Guard.
    (c) Any non-resident alien applying for a merchant mariner's
document under this subpart may not be a citizen of, or a temporary or
permanent resident of, a country designated by the Department of State
as a ``State Sponsor of Terrorism'' pursuant to section 6(j) of the
Export Administration Act of 1979 (50 U.S.C. App. 2405(j)) or section
620A of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2371).

Sec.  12.811  Restrictions.

    (a) A merchant mariner's document issued to a non-resident alien
under this subpart authorizes service only in the steward's department
of the U.S.-flag large passenger vessel(s), that is/are under the same
common ownership and control as the foreign flag passenger vessel(s),
on which the non-resident alien served to meet the requirements of
Sec.  12.807(a) of this part:
    (1) The merchant mariner's document will be endorsed for service in
the steward's department in accordance with Sec.  12.704 of this part;
    (2) The merchant mariner's document may also be endorsed for
service as a food handler if the applicant meets the requirements of
Sec.  12.706 of this part; and
    (3) No other rating or endorsement is authorized, except
lifeboatman, in which case all applicable requirements of this
subchapter and the STCW

Convention and STCW Code must be met.
    (b) The following restrictions must be printed on the MMD, or be
listed in an accompanying Coast Guard letter, or both:
    (1) The name and official number of all U.S. flag vessels on which
the non-resident alien may serve. Service is not authorized on any
other U.S. flag vessel;
    (2) Upon issuance, the MMD must remain in the custody of the
employer at all times;
    (3) Upon termination of employment, the MMD must be returned to the
Coast Guard within 10 days in accordance with Sec.  12.805 of this
part;
    (4) A non-resident alien issued an MMD under this subpart may not
perform watchstanding, engine room duty watch, or vessel navigation
functions; and
    (5) A non-resident alien issued an MMD under this subpart may
perform emergency-related duties, provided:
    (i) The emergency-related duties do not require any other rating or
endorsement, except lifeboatman as specified in paragraph (a)(3) of
this section;
    (ii) The non-resident alien has completed familiarization and basic
safety training (BST), as required in Sec.  15.1105 of this subchapter;
    (iii) That if the non-resident alien serves as a lifeboatman, he or
she must have the necessary lifeboatman's endorsement; and
    (iv) The non-resident alien has completed the training for
crewmembers on passenger ships performing duties involving safety or
care for passengers, as required in Sec.  15.1103 of this subchapter.
    (c) A non-resident alien may only serve for an aggregate period of
36 months actual service on all authorized U.S. flag large passenger
vessels combined under the provisions of this subpart:
    (1) Once this 36-month limitation is reached, the MMD becomes
invalid and must be returned to the Coast Guard under Sec.  12.805(d)
of this part, and the non-resident alien is no longer authorized to
serve in a position requiring a merchant mariner's document on any U.S.
flag large passenger vessel; and
    (2) An individual who successfully adjusts his or her immigration
status to become either an alien lawfully admitted for permanent
residence to the United States, or a citizen of the United States, may
apply for an MMD, subject to the requirements of Sec.  10.221 of this
subchapter, without any restrictions or limitations imposed by this
subpart.

Sec.  12.813  Alternative means of compliance.

    (a) The owner or managing operator of a U.S. flag large passenger
vessel, or U.S. flag large passenger vessels, seeking to employ non-
resident aliens issued MMDs under this subpart may submit a plan to the
Coast Guard, which, if approved, will serve as an alternative means of
complying with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) The plan must address all the elements contained in this
subpart, as well as the related elements contained in Sec.  15.530 of
this subchapter, to the satisfaction of the Coast Guard.

PART 15--MANNING REQUIREMENTS

    136. The authority citation for part 15 continues to read as
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2101, 2103, 3306, 3703, 8101, 8102, 8104,
8105, 8301, 8304, 8502, 8503, 8701, 8702, 8901, 8902, 8903, 8904,
8905(b), 8906, 9102, and 70105; and Department of Homeland Security
Delegation No. 0170.1.

Subpart A--Purpose and Applicability

Sec.  15.101  [Amended]

    137. In Sec.  15.101 introductory text, remove the words ``the
regulations in'' and ``, parts E & F,''.
    138. Revise Sec.  15.103 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.103  General.

    (a) The regulations in this part apply to all vessels that are
subject to the manning requirements contained in the navigation and
shipping laws of the United States, including uninspected vessels (46
U.S.C. 7101-9308).
    (b) The navigation and shipping laws state that a vessel may not be
operated unless certain manning requirements are met. In addition to
establishing a minimum number of officers and rated crew to be carried
onboard certain vessels, they establish minimum qualifications
concerning licenses and MMC endorsements, citizenship, and conditions
of employment. It is the responsibility of the owner, charterer,
managing operator, master, or person in charge or in command of the
vessel to ensure that appropriate personnel are carried to meet the
requirements of the applicable navigation and shipping laws and
regulations.
    (c) Inspected vessels are issued a Certificate of Inspection (COI)
which indicates the minimum complement of officers and crew (including
lifeboatmen) considered necessary for safe operation. The COI
complements the statutory requirements but does not supersede them.
    (d) Uninspected vessels operating on an international voyage may be
issued a safe manning certificate indicating the minimum complement of
qualified mariners necessary for safe operation.
    (e) The regulations in subpart J of this part apply to seagoing
vessels subject to the STCW Convention, except those vessels noted
below:
    (1) Fishing vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(11)(a);
    (2) Fishing vessels used as fish-tender vessels as defined in 46
U.S.C. 2101(11)(c);
    (3) Barges as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(2), including non-self-
propelled mobile offshore-drilling units; and
    (4) Vessels operating exclusively on the Great Lakes and other
inland waters.
    (f) Owners and operators, and personnel serving on the following
small vessels engaged exclusively on domestic, near-coastal voyages are
in compliance with subpart J and are, therefore, not subject to further
obligation for the purposes of the STCW Convention:
    (1) Small passenger vessels subject to subchapter T or K of title
46, CFR;
    (2) Vessels of less than 200 GRT/500 GT, other than passenger
vessels subject to subchapter H of title 46 CFR;
    (3) Uninspected passenger vessels (UPVs) as defined in 46 U.S.C.
2101(42)(B).
    (g) Personnel serving on vessels identified in paragraphs (f)(1)
and (2) of this section may be issued, without additional proof of
qualification, an appropriate STCW endorsement on their license or MMC
when the Coast Guard determines that such an endorsement is necessary
to enable the vessel to engage on a single international voyage of a
non-routine nature. The STCW endorsement will be expressly limited to
service on the vessel or the class of vessels and will not establish
qualification for any other purpose. All personnel on the specified
vessels must comply with the requirements of Sec.  15.1105 of this part
when the vessel is engaged on an international voyage.
    139. Revise Sec.  15.105(b) to read as follows:

Sec.  15.105  Incorporation by reference.

* * * * *
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO), 4 Albert Embankment,
London, SE1 7SR, England:
    (1) The International Convention on Standards of Training,
Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW
Convention), incorporation approved for Sec. Sec.  15.403, 15.1103,
15.1105, and 15.1109.
    (2) The Seafarer's Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Code,
as amended (STCW Code), incorporation

by reference approved for Sec. Sec.  15.1105, and 15.1109.

Subpart B [Removed and Reserved]

    140. Revise part 15, subpart C, to read as follows:
Subpart C--Manning Requirements; All Vessels
Sec.
15.401 Employment and service within restrictions of credentials.
15.403 When credentials are required.
15.404 Requirements for serving onboard a vessel.
15.405 Familiarity with vessel characteristics.
15.410 Credentialed individuals for assistance towing vessels.

 Subpart C--Manning Requirements; All Vessels

Sec.  15.401  Employment and service within restrictions of
credentials.

    (a) A person may not employ or engage an individual, and an
individual may not serve, in a position in which an individual is
required by law or regulation to hold a license, certificate of
registry, merchant mariner's document, TWIC and/or MMC, unless the
individual holds all credentials required, as appropriate, authorizing
service in the capacity in which the individual is engaged or employed,
and the individual serves within any restrictions placed on the
credential. An individual holding an active license, certificate of
registry, MMD, or MMC issued by the Coast Guard must also hold a valid
TWIC issued by the Transportation Security Administration under 49 CFR
part 1572.
    (b) Each individual referred to in paragraph (c) of this section
must hold an MMD or MMC that serves as identification, with an
appropriate endorsement for the position in which the seaman serves,
and must be presented to the master of the vessel at the time of
employment or before signing Articles of Agreement.
    (c) Each individual employed on any merchant vessel of the United
States of 100 GRT/250 GT or more must possess a valid MMD or MMC issued
by the Coast Guard, except as noted below:
    (1) Mariners on vessels navigating exclusively on rivers and lakes,
except the Great Lakes, as defined in Sec.  10.107 of this subchapter;
or
    (2) Mariners below the rank of licensed officer employed on any
non-self-propelled vessel, except seagoing barges and certain tank
barges.
    (d) Every person employed on a vessel with dual tonnages (both
domestic and international) must hold a credential authorizing service
appropriate to the tonnage scheme under which the vessel is operating.

Sec.  15.403  When credentials are required.

    (a) Every seaman, as referred to in paragraph (a) of this section,
must produce a valid MMC or MMD with all applicable rating endorsements
for the position sought, and a valid TWIC, to the master of the vessel
at the time of his or her employment before signing Articles of
Agreement. Seamen who do not possess one of these credentials may be
employed at a foreign port or place.
    (b)(1) Every person below the grades of officer and staff officer
employed on any U.S. flag merchant vessel of 100 GRT/250 GT and upward,
except those navigating rivers exclusively and the smaller inland
lakes, must possess a valid MMC or MMD with all appropriate
endorsements for the positions served.
    (2) No endorsements are required of any person below the rank of
officer employed on any barges except seagoing barges and certain tank
barges.
    (3) No endorsements are required of any person below the rank of
officer employed on any sail vessel of less than 500 net tons while not
carrying passengers for hire and while not operating outside the line
dividing inland waters from the high seas. 33 U.S.C. 151.
    (c) Each person serving as an able seaman or an RFPNW on a seagoing
ship of 200 GRT/500 GT or more must hold an STCW endorsement certifying
him or her as qualified to perform the navigational function at the
support level, in accordance with the STCW Convention (incorporated by
reference in Sec.  15.105).
    (d) Each person serving as a QMED or an RFPEW, on a seagoing ship
driven by main propulsion machinery of 1,000 HP/750 kW of propulsion
power or more, must hold an STCW endorsement certifying him or her as
qualified to perform the marine-engineering function at the support
level, in accordance with STCW (incorporated by reference in Sec.
15.105).
    (e) Notwithstanding any other rule in this part, no person subject
to this part serving on any of the following vessels needs an STCW
endorsement:
    (1) Fishing vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(11)(a);
    (2) Fishing vessels used as fish-tender vessels as defined in 46
U.S.C. 2101(11)(c);
    (3) Barges as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(2), including non-self-
propelled mobile offshore-drilling units; or
    (4) Vessels operating exclusively on the Great Lakes.
    (5) Vessels not subject to further obligation under the STCW
Convention due to their special operating conditions as small vessels
engaged in domestic, near-coastal voyages, including:
    (i) Small passenger vessels subject to subchapter T or K of title
46 CFR;
    (ii) Vessels of less than 200 GRT/500 GT (other than passenger
vessels subject to subchapter H of title 46 CFR); or
    (iii) Uninspected passenger vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C.
2101(42)(B).

Sec.  15.404   Requirements for serving onboard a vessel.

    (a) RFPNW. Each person serving as a rating forming part of a
navigational watch on a seagoing vessel of 200 GRT/500 GT or more,
subject to the STCW Convention, must hold an STCW endorsement attesting
to his or her qualifications to perform the navigational function at
the support level.
    (b) Able Seaman. Each person serving as a rating as able seaman on
a U.S. flag vessel must hold an MMC endorsed as able seaman, except
that no credential as able seaman is required of any person employed on
any tug or towboat on the bays and sounds connected directly with the
seas, or on any barges except seagoing barges or tank barges.
    (c) RFPEW. Each person serving as a rating forming part of a watch
in a manned engine room or designated to perform duties in a
periodically unmanned engine room, on a seagoing vessel driven by main
propulsion machinery of 1,000 HP/750 kW of propulsion power or more,
must hold an STCW endorsement attesting to his or her qualifications to
perform the marine-engineering function at the support level.
    (d) QMED. (1) The holder of an MMD or MMC endorsed with one or more
QMED ratings may serve in any unqualified rating in the engine
department without obtaining an additional endorsement.
    (2) A QMED may serve as a qualified rating in the engineering
department only in the specific ratings endorsed on his or her MMD or
MMC.
    (e) Lifeboatman. Every person assigned duties as a lifeboatman must
hold a credential attesting to such proficiency. Persons serving on
vessels subject to the STCW Convention must also hold an STCW
endorsement attesting to proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats
other than fast rescue boats.
    (f) Survivalman. Every person employed onboard a vessel that is not
required to carry lifeboats and is required to employ lifeboatmen must
hold an endorsement as either

lifeboatman or survivalman. Persons serving on vessels subject to the
STCW Convention must also hold an STCW endorsement attesting to
proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than lifeboats and
fast rescue boats.
    (g) Lifeboatman Equivalent. (1) An endorsement issued before
[EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE FINAL RULE] as able seaman is the equivalent of
a credential endorsed as lifeboatman or survivalman, as appropriate.
    (2) An endorsement as lifeboatman is the equivalent of a credential
endorsed as survivalman.
    (h) Fast Rescue Boats. Every person engaged or employed in a
position requiring proficiency in fast rescue boats must hold an
endorsement attesting to such proficiency.
    (i) Entry Level. Every person employed in a rating other than able
seaman or QMED on a U.S. vessel on which MMCs are required must hold an
MMD or MMC endorsed as wiper, ordinary seaman, or foodhandler.
    (j) Person in charge of medical care. Every person designated to
take charge of medical care must hold an MMD or MMC endorsed as person
in charge of medical care.
    (k) Medical first aid provider. Every person designated to provide
medical first aid onboard a ship must hold an MMD or MMC endorsed as
medical first aid provider or a deck or engineer officer endorsement.
    (l) GMDSS radio operator or maintainer. Every person responsible
for the operation or shipboard maintenance of GMDSS radio equipment
must hold an MMD or MMC endorsed as GMDSS radio operator or GMDSS radio
maintainer, as appropriate.

Sec.  15.405  Familiarity with vessel characteristics.

    Every crewmember must become familiar with the relevant
characteristics of the vessel on which he or she is engaged prior to
assuming his or her duties. These include, but are not limited to:
general arrangement of the vessel; maneuvering characteristics; proper
operation of the installed navigation equipment; proper operation of
firefighting and lifesaving equipment; stability and loading
characteristics; emergency duties; and main propulsion and auxiliary
machinery, including steering gear systems and controls.

Sec.  15.410  Credentialed individuals for assistance towing vessels.

    Every assistance towing vessel must be under the direction and
control of an individual holding a license or MMC authorizing him or
her to engage in assistance towing under the provisions of Sec.  11.482
of this subchapter.

Subpart D--Manning Requirements; Inspected Vessels

Sec.  15.505  [Amended]

    141. In Sec.  15.505, remove the words ``changes in manning as
indicated on the'' and add, in their place, the words ``changes to the
manning required on the''.
    142. Revise Sec.  15.515 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.515  Compliance with Certificate of Inspection (COI).

    (a) Except as provided by Sec.  15.725 of this part, no vessel may
be navigated unless it has in its service and onboard the crew
complement required by the COI.
    (b) Any time passengers are embarked on a passenger vessel, the
vessel must have the crew complement required by the COI, whether the
vessel is underway, at anchor, made fast to shore, or aground.
    (c) No vessel subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. 3301 will be
navigated unless it is under the direction and control of an individual
who holds an appropriate license or officer endorsement on his or her
MMC.
    143. Revise Sec.  15.520 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.520  Mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs).

    (a) The requirements in this section for MODUs supplement other
requirements in this part.
    (b) The OCMI determines the minimum number of officers and crew
(including lifeboatmen) required for the safe operation of inspected
MODUs. In addition to other factors listed in this part, the
specialized nature of the MODU is considered in determining the
specific manning levels.
    (c) A license or officer endorsement on an MMC as offshore
installation manager (OIM), barge supervisor (BS), or ballast control
operator (BCO) authorizes service only on MODUs. A license or
endorsement as OIM is restricted to the MODU type and mode of operation
specified on the credential.
    (d) A self-propelled MODU, other than a drillship, when underway
must be under the command of an individual who holds a license or MMC
endorsed as master and OIM. When not underway, such a vessel must be
under the command of an individual holding the appropriate OIM
credential.
    (e) A drillship must be under the command of an individual who
holds a license or MMC officer endorsement as master. When a drillship
is on location, the individual in command must hold a license as master
endorsed as OIM or an MMC with master and OIM officer endorsements.
    (f) A non-self-propelled MODU must be under the command of an
individual who holds a license or MMC officer endorsement as OIM.
    (g) An individual serving as mate on a self-propelled surface unit,
other than a drillship, when underway must hold an appropriate MMC
endorsed as mate and BS or BCO. When not underway, such a vessel may
substitute an individual holding the appropriate BS or BCO endorsement
for the mate, if permitted by the cognizant OCMI.
    (h) An individual holding a license or MMC officer endorsement as
barge supervisor is required on a non-self-propelled surface unit other
than a drillship.
    (i) An individual holding a license or MMC officer endorsement as
barge supervisor may serve as BCO.
    (j) The OCMI issuing the COI for the MODU may authorize the
substitution of chief or assistant engineer (MODU) for chief or
assistant engineer, respectively, on self-propelled or propulsion-
assisted surface units, except drillships. The OCMI may also authorize
the substitution of assistant engineer (MODU) for assistant engineer on
drillships.
    (k) Requirements in this part concerning radar observers do not
apply to non-self-propelled MODUs.
    (l) A surface mobile offshore drilling unit underway or on
location, when afloat and equipped with a ballast control room, must
have that ballast control room manned by an individual holding a
license or MMC officer endorsement authorizing service as ballast
control operator.
    144. Revise the heading to Sec.  15.525 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.525  Additional manning requirements for tank vessels.

* * * * *

Subpart E--Manning Requirements; Uninspected Vessels

    145. Revise Sec.  15.605 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.605  Credentialed operators for uninspected passenger vessels.

    Each uninspected passenger vessel (UPV) must be under the direction
and control of an individual credentialed by the Coast Guard, as
follows:
    (a) Every UPV of 100 GRT/250 GT or more, as defined by 46 U.S.C.
2101(42)(A), must be under the command of an individual holding a
license or MMC endorsed as master.

When navigated, it must be under the direction and control of a
credentialed master, pilot, or mate.
    (b) Every self-propelled UPV as defined by 46 U.S.C. 2101(42)(B)
must be under the direction and control of an individual holding a
license or MMC endorsed as or equivalent to OUPV.
    (c) Personnel serving on UPVs engaged on international voyages must
meet the requirements of subpart J of this part.
    146. Revise Sec.  15.610 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.610  Master and mate (pilot) of towing vessels.

    (a) Except as provided in this paragraph, every towing vessel of at
least 8 meters (26 feet) in length, measured from end to end over the
deck (excluding sheer), must be under the direction and control of a
person holding a license or MMC officer endorsement as master or mate
(pilot) of towing vessels, or as master or mate of vessels greater than
200 GRT/500 GT, holding either an endorsement on his or her license or
MMC for towing vessels or a completed Towing Officer's Assessment
Record (TOAR) signed by a designated examiner and indicating that the
officer is proficient in the operation of towing vessels. This
requirement does not apply to any vessel engaged in assistance towing,
nor does it apply to any towing vessel of less than 200 GRT/500 GT if
the vessel is going to or coming from equipment or a site that is
exploiting offshore minerals or oil.
    (b) Any towing vessel operating in the pilotage waters of the Lower
Mississippi River must be under the control of an officer meeting the
requirements of paragraph (a) of this section who holds either a first-
class pilot's endorsement for that route or MMC officer endorsement for
the Western Rivers, or who meets the requirements of paragraph (a) and
also meets the requirements of either paragraph (b)(1) or paragraph
(b)(2) of this section, as applicable:
    (1) To operate a towing vessel with tank barges, or a tow of barges
carrying hazardous materials regulated under subchapter N or O of this
chapter, an officer in charge of the towing vessel must have completed
12 round trips over this route as an observer, with at least three of
those trips during hours of darkness, and at least one of the 12 round
trips completed within the last 5 years.
    (2) To operate a towing vessel without barges, or a tow of
uninspected barges, an officer in charge of the towing vessel must have
completed at least four round trips over this route as an observer,
with at least one of those trips during hours of darkness, and at least
one of the four round trips within the last 5 years.

Subpart F--Limitations and Qualifying Factors

Sec.  15.701  [Amended]

    147. Amend Sec.  15.701 as follows:
    a. In paragraph (a)(4), remove the words ``gross tons'' and add, in
their place, the text ``GRT/500 GT''; and
    b. In paragraph (b), remove the word ``chapter'' and add, in its
place, the word ``subchapter''.
    148. Revise Sec.  15.705 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.705  Watches.

    (a) Title 46 U.S.C. 8104 applies to the establishment of watches
aboard certain U.S. vessels. The establishment of adequate watches is
the responsibility of the vessel's master. The Coast Guard interprets
the term ``watch'' to be the direct performance of duties pertaining to
a vessel's operations, whether deck or engine, where such operations
would routinely be controlled and performed in a scheduled and fixed
rotation. The performance of maintenance or work necessary to the
vessel's safe operation on a daily basis does not in itself constitute
the establishment of a watch. The minimum safe manning levels specified
in a vessel's Certificate of Inspection (COI) take into consideration
routine maintenance requirements and ability of the crew to perform all
operational evolutions, including emergencies, as well as those
functions which may be assigned to persons in watches.
    (b) Subject to exceptions, 46 U.S.C. 8104 requires that when a
master of a seagoing vessel of more than 100 GRT/250 GT establishes
watches for the officers, sailors, coal passers, firemen, oilers and
watertenders, ``the personnel shall be divided, when at sea, into at
least three watches and shall be kept on duty successively to perform
ordinary work incidental to the operation and management of the
vessel''. The Coast Guard interprets ``sailors'' to mean those members
of the deck department other than officers, whose duties involve the
mechanics of conducting the ship on its voyage, such as helmsman
(wheelsman), lookout, etc., and which are necessary to the maintenance
of a continuous watch. ``Sailors'' is not interpreted to include able
seamen and ordinary seamen not performing these duties.
    (c) Subject to exceptions, 46 U.S.C. 8104(g) permits the officers
and crew members (except the coal passers, firemen, oilers, and
watertenders) to be divided into two watches when at sea and engaged on
a voyage of less than 600 miles, on the following categories of
vessels:
    (1) Towing vessel;
    (2) Offshore supply vessel; or
    (3) Barge.
    (d) Subject to exceptions, 46 U.S.C. 8104(h) permits a master or
mate (pilot) operating a towing vessel that is at least 8 meters (26
feet) in length measured from end to end over the deck (excluding
sheer) to work not more than 12 hours in a consecutive 24-hour period
except in an emergency. The Coast Guard interprets this, in conjunction
with other provisions of the law, to permit masters or mates (pilots)
serving as operators of towing vessels that are not subject to the
provisions of the Officers' Competency Certificates Convention, 1936,
to be divided into two watches regardless of the length of the voyage.
    (e) Fish processing vessels are subject to various provisions of 46
U.S.C. 8104 concerning watches, including:
    (1) For fish processing vessels that entered into service before
January 1, 1988, the following watch requirements apply to the officers
and deck crew:
    (i) If over 5,000 GRT/GT--three watches.
    (ii) If more than 1,600 GRT/3,000 GT and not more than 5,000 GRT/
GT--two watches.
    (iii) If not more than 1,600 GRT/3,000 GT--no watch division
specified;
    (2) For fish processing vessels that entered into service after
December 31, 1987, the following watch requirements apply to the
officers and deck crew:
    (i) If over 5,000 GRT/GT--three watches;
    (ii) If not more than 5,000 GRT/GT and having more than 16
individuals onboard, primarily employed in the preparation of fish or
fish products--two watches; and
    (iii) If not more than 5000 GRT/GT and having not more than 16
individuals onboard, primarily employed in the preparation of fish or
fish products--no watch division specified.
    (f) Properly manned uninspected passenger vessels of at least 100
GRT/250 GT--
    (1) Which are underway for no more than 12 hours in any 24-hour
period, and which are adequately moored, anchored, or otherwise secured
in a harbor of safe refuge for the remainder of that 24-hour period,
may operate with one navigational watch;
    (2) Which are underway more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period
must provide a minimum of a two-watch system;

    (3) In no case may the crew of any watch work more than 12 hours in
any 24-hour period, except in an emergency.
    149. Amend Sec.  15.720 as follows:
    a. Revise the section heading and paragraph (d) to read as set out
below; and
    b. In paragraph (b)(1), remove the words ``a foreign'' and add, in
their place, the words ``an international''.

Sec.  15.720  Use of non-U.S. credentialed personnel.

* * * * *
    (d) The master must assure that any replacement of crewmembers by
non-U.S. citizens made in accordance with this section will be with an
individual who holds a credential that requires experience, training,
and other qualifications equivalent to the U.S. credential required for
the position, and that the person possesses or will possess the
training required to communicate to the extent required by Sec.  15.730
of this part.

Sec.  15.725  [Amended]

    150. In Sec.  15.725 text, remove the words ``Officer in Charge,
Marine Inspection (OCMI)'' and add, in their place, the word ``OCMI''.

Sec.  15.730  [Amended]

    151. Amend Sec.  15.730 as follows:
    a. In paragraph (a) introductory text, remove the words ``gross
tons'' and add, in their place, the text ``GRT/250 GT'';
    b. In paragraphs (a)(1) and (2), remove the parentheses wherever
they appear; and
    c. In paragraph (a)(6), remove the words ``not more than 1600 gross
tons or which enters'' and add, in their place, the words ``not more
than 1,600 GRT/3,000 GT or which entered''.

Subpart G--Computations

    152. Amend Sec.  15.805 as follows:
    a. Revise paragraph (a) introductory text and paragraphs (a)(5) and
(a)(5)(ii), and add new paragraph (a)(7) to read as set out below;
    b. In paragraph (a)(1), remove the words ``gross tons and over.''
and add, in their place, the text ``GRT/500 GT or more;'';
    c. In paragraphs (a)(2) through (4), remove the text ``.'' wherever
it appears and add, in its place, the text ``;''; and
    d. In paragraph (a)(6), remove the words ``gross tons.'' and add,
in their place, the words ``GRT/250 GT; and''.

Sec.  15.805  Master.

    (a) An individual holding either an appropriate, valid license as
master or an MMC endorsed as master must be in command of each of the
following vessels:
* * * * *
    (5) Every towing vessel of at least 8 meters (26 feet) or more in
length must be under the command of a master of towing vessels, or a
mariner holding a license or MMC endorsed as master of inspected, self-
propelled vessels greater than 200 GRT/500 GT holding either--
* * * * *
    (ii) A license or MMC endorsed for master of towing vessels.
* * * * *
    (7) Every uninspected passenger vessel on an international voyage.
* * * * *

Sec.  15.810  [Amended]

    153. Amend Sec.  15.810 as follows:
    a. In paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2) introductory text, and (b)(3),
remove the text ``1000 gross tons'' wherever it appears and add, in its
place, the text ``1,000 GRT/2,000 GT'';
    b. In paragraph (b)(3), remove the text ``100 or more gross tons''
and add, in its place, the text ``100 GRT/250 GT or more'';
    c. In paragraphs (b)(4) and (5), remove the text ``100 gross tons''
wherever it appears and add, in its place, the text ``100 GRT/250
GT'',;
    d. In paragraph (b)(3), (c), and (d)(2), remove the text ``200
gross tons'' and add, in its place, the text ``200 GRT/500 GT''; and
    e. In paragraph (d)(2)(i), remove the words ``Towing Officer's
Assessment Record (TOAR)'' and add, in their place, the word ``TOAR''.
    154. Revise Sec.  15.812 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.812  Pilot.

    (a) Except as specified in paragraph (f) of this section, the
following vessels, not sailing on register, when underway on the
navigable waters of the United States, must be under the direction and
control of an individual qualified to serve as pilot under paragraph
(b) or (c) of this section, as appropriate:
    (1) Coastwise seagoing vessels propelled by machinery and subject
to inspection under 46 U.S.C. Chapter 33, and coastwise seagoing tank
barges subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. Chapter 37;
    (2) Vessels that are not authorized by their Certificate of
Inspection (COI) to proceed beyond the boundary line established in
part 7 of this Chapter, and are in excess of 1,600 GRT/3,000 GT,
propelled by machinery, and subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C.
chapter 33; and
    (3) Vessels operating on the Great Lakes, that are propelled by
machinery and subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. chapter 33, or are
tank barges subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. chapter 37.
    (b) The following individuals may serve as pilots on a vessel
subject to paragraph (a) of this section, when underway on the
navigable waters of the United States that are designated areas:
    (1) An individual holding a valid first class pilot's license or
MMC officer endorsement as first class pilot, operating within the
restrictions of his or her credential, may serve as pilot on any vessel
to which this section applies.
    (2) An individual holding a valid license or MMC officer
endorsement as master or mate, employed aboard a vessel within the
restrictions of his or her credential, may serve as pilot on a vessel
of not more than 1,600 GRT/3,000 GT propelled by machinery, described
in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(3) of this section, provided he or she:
    (i) Is at least 21 years old;
    (ii) Is able to show current waters of the waters to be navigated,
as required in Sec.  11.713 of this subchapter; and
    (iii) Has completed a minimum of four round trips over the route to
be traversed while in the wheelhouse as watchstander or observer. At
least one of the round trips must be made during the hours of darkness
if the route is to be traversed during darkness.
    (3) An individual holding a valid license or MMC officer
endorsement as master, mate, or operator employed aboard a vessel
within the restrictions of his or her credential, may serve as pilot on
a tank barge or tank barges totaling not more than 10,000 GRT/GT,
described in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(3) of this section, provided he
or she:
    (i) Is at least 21 years old;
    (ii) Is able to show current knowledge of the waters to be
navigated, as required in Sec.  11.713 of this subchapter;
    (iii) Has a current physical examination in accordance with the
provisions of Sec.  11.709 of this subchapter;
    (iv) Has at least 6 months of service in the deck department on
towing vessels engaged in towing operations; and
    (v) Has completed a minimum of 12 round trips over the route to be
traversed, as an observer or under instruction in the wheelhouse. At
least three of the round trips must be made during the hours of
darkness if the route is to be traversed during darkness.
    (c) An individual holding a valid license or MMC officer
endorsement as master, mate, or operator, employed aboard a vessel
within the restrictions of his or her credential, may serve as a pilot
for a vessel subject to paragraphs

(a)(1) and (a)(2) of this section, when underway on the navigable
waters of the United States that are not designated areas of pilotage
waters, provided he or she:
    (1) Is at least 21 years old;
    (2) Is able to show current knowledge of the waters to be
navigated, as required in Sec.  11.713 of this subchapter; and
    (3) Has a current physical examination in accordance with the
provisions of Sec.  11.709 of this subchapter.
    (d) In any instance when the qualifications of a person satisfying
the requirements for pilotage through the provisions of this subpart
are questioned by the Coast Guard, the individual must, within a
reasonable time, provide the Coast Guard with documentation proving
compliance with the applicable portion(s) of paragraphs (b) and (c) of
this section.
    (e) Federal pilotage requirements contained in paragraphs (a)
through (d) of this section are summarized in the following two quick
reference tables:
    (1) Table 15.812(e)(1) provides a guide to the pilotage
requirements for inspected, self-propelled vessels.

     Table 15.812(e)(1)--Quick Reference Table for Federal Pilotage
 Requirements for U.S. Inspected Self-Propelled Vessels, Not Sailing on
                                Register
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               Designated areas of
                                 pilotage waters    Non-designated areas
                                (routes for which    of pilotage waters
                               First-Class Pilot's   (between the 3-mile
                                 licenses or MMC     line and the start
                              officer endorsements     of  traditional
                                   are issued)        pilotage routes)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspected self-propelled      First-Class Pilot...  Master or Mate may
 vessels greater than 1,600                          serve as pilot if
 GRT/3,000 GT, authorized by                         he or she:
 their Certificate of                               1. Is at least 21
 Inspection (COI) to proceed                         years old;
 beyond the boundary line,                          2. Has an annual
 operating on the Great                              physical exam; and
 Lakes.                                             3. Maintains current
                                                     knowledge of the
                                                     waters to be
                                                     navigated.\1\
Inspected self-propelled      First-Class Pilot,    Master or Mate may
 vessels not more than 1,600   or Master or Mate    serve as pilot if he
 GRT/3,000 GT, if authorized   may serve as pilot    or she:
 by their COI to proceed       if the individual:   1. Is at least 21
 beyond the boundary line,    1. Is at least 21      years old; and
 or operating on the Great     years old..          2. Maintains current
 Lakes.                       2. Maintains current   knowledge of the
                               knowledge of the      waters to be
                               waters to be          navigated.\1\
                               navigated \1\.
                              3. Has four round
                               trips over the
                               route \2\
Inspected self-propelled      First-Class Pilot...  Master or Mate may
 vessels greater than 1,600                          serve as pilot if
 GRT/3,000 GT, not                                   he or she:
 authorized by their COI to                         1. Is at least 21
 proceed beyond the boundary                         years old;
 line (inland route                                 2. Has an annual
 vessels); other than                                physical exam; and
 vessels operating on the                           3. Maintains current
 Great Lakes.                                        knowledge of the
                                                     waters to be
                                                     navigated.\1\
Inspected self-propelled      No pilotage           No pilotage
 vessels not more than 1,600   requirement.          requirement.
 GRT/3,000 GT, not
 authorized by their COI to
 proceed beyond the boundary
 line (inland route
 vessels); other than
 vessels operating on the
 Great Lakes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ One round trip within the past 60 months.
\2\ If the route is to be traversed during darkness, 1 of the 4 round
  trips must be made during darkness.

    (2) Table 15.812(e)(2) provides a guide to the pilotage
requirements for tank barges.

     Table 15.812(e)(2)--Quick Reference Table for Federal Pilotage
  Requirements for U.S. Inspected Tank Barges, Not Sailing on Register
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               Designated areas of
                                 pilotage waters    Non-designated areas
                                (routes for which    of pilotage waters
                               First-Class Pilot's   (between the 3-mile
                                 licenses or MMC     line and the start
                              officer endorsements     of  traditional
                                   are issued)        pilotage routes)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tank barges greater than      First-Class Pilot...  Master, Mate, or
 10,000 GRT/GT, authorized                           Master, Mate
 by their COI to proceed                             (Pilot) of towing
 beyond the boundary line,                           vessels may serve
 or operating on the Great                           as pilot if he or
 Lakes.                                              she:
                                                    1. Is at least 21
                                                     years old;
                                                    2. Has an annual
                                                     physical exam; \1\
                                                       3. Maintains
                                                        current
                                                        knowledge of the
                                                        waters to be
                                                        navigated; \2\
                                                        and
                                                       4. Has at least 6
                                                        months' service
                                                        in the deck
                                                        department on
                                                        towing vessels
                                                        engaged in
                                                        towing.
Tank barges 10,000 GRT/GT or  First-Class Pilot,    Master, Mate, or
 less, authorized by their     or Master, Mate, or   Master, Mate
 COI to proceed beyond the     Master, Mate          (Pilot) of towing
 boundary line, or operating   (Pilot) of towing     vessels may serve
 on the Great Lakes.           vessels may serve     as pilot if he or
                               as pilot if he or     she:
                               she:                 1. Is at least 21
                              1. Is at least 21      years old;
                               years old;.
                              2. Has an annual         2. Has an annual
                               physical exam; \1\       physical exam;
                                                        \1\
                              3. Maintains current     3. Maintains
                               knowledge of the         current
                               waters to be             knowledge of the
                               navigated; \2\           waters to be
                                                        navigated; \2\
                                                        and

                              4. Has at least 6
                               months' service in
                               the deck department
                               on towing vessels
                               engaged in towing
                               operations; and
                              5. Has 12 round
                               trips over the
                               route.\3\
Tank barges authorized by     No pilotage           No pilotage
 their COI for inland routes   requirement.          requirement.
 only (lakes, bays, and
 sounds/rivers); other than
 vessels operating on the
 Great Lakes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Annual physical exam does not apply to an individual who will serve
  as a pilot of a tank barge of less than 1,600 GRT/3,000 GT.
\2\ One round trip within the past 60 months.
\3\ If the route is to be traversed during darkness, 3 of the 12 round
  trips must be made during darkness.

    (f) In Prince William Sound, Alaska, coastwise seagoing vessels
over 1,600 GRT/3,000 GT and propelled by machinery and subject to
inspection under 46 U.S.C. Chapter 37 must:
    (1) When operating from 60[deg]49' north latitude to the Port of
Valdez be under the direction and control of an individual holding a
valid license or MMC endorsed as pilot who:
    (i) Is operating under the authority of a license or MMC;
    (ii) Holds a license issued by the State of Alaska; and
    (iii) Is not a member of the crew of the vessel; and
    (2) Navigate with either two credentialed deck officers on the
bridge, or an individual holding a valid license or MMC endorsed as
pilot, when operating south of 60[deg]49' north latitude and in the
approaches through Hinchinbrook Entrance and in the area bounded:
    (i) On the West by a line one mile west of the western boundary of
the traffic separation scheme;
    (ii) On the East by 146[deg]00' West longitude;
    (iii) On the North by 60[deg]49' North latitude; and
    (iv) On the South by that area of Hinchinbrook Entrance within the
territorial sea bounded by 60[deg]07' North latitude and 146[deg]31.5'
West longitude.
    155. Revise Sec.  15.815 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.815  Radar observer.

    (a) Every person in the required complement of deck officers,
including the master, on inspected vessels of 300 GRT/700 GT or over
that are radar equipped, must hold a valid endorsement as radar
observer.
    (b) Every person who is employed or serves as pilot in accordance
with Federal law onboard radar-equipped vessels of 300 GRT/700 GT or
over must hold a valid endorsement as radar observer.
    (c) Every person having to hold a license or MMC officer
endorsement under 46 U.S.C. 8904(a) for employment or service as master
or mate onboard an uninspected towing vessel of 8 meters (26 feet) or
more in length must, if the vessel is equipped with radar, hold a valid
endorsement as radar observer.
    (d) Every person who is required to hold a radar endorsement must
have his or her certificate of training readily available to
demonstrate that the endorsement is still valid.
    (e) For this section, readily available means that the
documentation must be provided to the Coast Guard, or other appropriate
federal agency, within 48 hours. The documentation may be provided by
the individual, or his or her company representative, electronically,
by facsimile, or physical copy.
    156. Add Sec.  15.816 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.816  Automatic radar plotting aids (ARPAs).

    Every person in the required complement of deck officers, including
the master, on seagoing vessels equipped with automatic radar plotting
aids (ARPAs), except those vessels listed in Sec.  15.103(e) and (f) of
this part, must provide evidence of competence in the use of ARPA.
    157. Add Sec.  15.817 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.817  Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) radio
operator.

    Every person in the required complement of deck officers, including
the master, on seagoing vessels equipped with a GMDSS, except those
vessels listed in Sec.  15.103(e) and (f) of this part, must provide
evidence of a valid STCW endorsement as GMDSS radio operator.
    158. Add Sec.  15.818 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.818  Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) at-sea
maintainer.

    Every person employed or engaged to maintain GMDSS equipment at
sea, when the service of a person so designated is used to meet the
maintenance requirements of SOLAS Regulation IV/15, must provide
documentary evidence that he or she is competent to maintain GMDSS
equipment at sea.
    159. Revise Sec.  15.820 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.820  Chief engineer.

    (a) There must be an individual holding an MMC or license endorsed
as chief engineer, or other credential authorizing service as chief
engineer, employed onboard the following mechanically propelled
inspected vessels:
    (1) Seagoing or Great Lakes vessels of 200 GRT/500 GT and over;
    (2) Offshore supply vessels of more than 200 GRT/500 GT; and
    (3) Inland (other than Great Lakes) vessels of 300 GRT/700 GT or
more, if the OCMI determines that an individual with a license or the
appropriate MMC officer endorsement responsible for the vessel's
mechanical propulsion is necessary.
    (b) An individual engaged or employed to perform the duties of
chief engineer on a mechanically propelled, uninspected, seagoing,
documented vessel of 200 GRT/500 GT or more must hold an appropriately
endorsed license or MMC authorizing service as a chief engineer.
    160. Revise Sec.  15.825 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.825  Engineer.

    (a) An individual in charge of an engineering watch on a
mechanically propelled, seagoing, documented vessel of 200 GRT/500 GT
or over, other than an individual described in Sec.  15.820 of this
part, must hold an appropriately endorsed license or MMC authorizing
service as an assistant engineer.
    (b) The OCMI determines the minimum number of credentialed

engineers required for the safe operation of inspected vessels.
    161. Revise Sec.  15.840 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.840  Able seaman.

    (a) With certain exceptions, 46 U.S.C. 8702 applies to all vessels
of at least 100 GRT/250 GT. At least 65 percent of the deck crew of
these vessels, excluding individuals serving as officers, must be able
seamen. For vessels permitted to maintain a two-watch system, the
percentage of able seamen may be reduced to 50.
    (b) Able seamen are rated as: unlimited, limited, special, offshore
supply vessel (OSV), sail, and fishing industry, under the provisions
of part 12 of this subchapter. 46 U.S.C. 7312 specifies the categories
of able seaman (i.e., unlimited, limited, etc.) necessary to meet the
requirements of 46 U.S.C. 8702.
    (c) It is the responsibility of the master or person in charge
(PIC) to ensure that the able seamen in the service of the vessel meet
the requirements of 46 U.S.C. 7312 and 8702.
    162. Revise Sec.  15.845 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.845  Lifeboatman including survivalman.

    The number of lifeboatmen required for a vessel is specified in
part 199 of this chapter; however, on vessels not equipped with
lifeboats, a lifeboatman may be replaced by a survivalman.

Sec.  15.855  [Amended]

    163. Amend Sec.  15.855 as follows:
    a. In paragraph (b), remove the words ``gross tons'' and add, in
their place, the text ``GRT/250 GT'';
    b. In paragraph (c) introductory text, remove the words ``gross
tons'' and add, in their place, the text ``GRT/700 GT'';
    c. In paragraphs (c)(1) through (4), remove the text ``.'' wherever
it appears at the end of each paragraph and add, in its place, the text
``;'';
    d. In paragraph (c)(5), remove the text ``.'' and add, in its
place, the text ``; and''; and
    e. In paragraph (c)(6), after section number ``Sec.  15.705'', add
the words ``of this part''.
    164. Revise Sec.  15.860 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.860  Tankerman.

    (a) The OCMI enters on the Certificate of Inspection (COI) issued
to each manned tank vessel subject to the regulations in this chapter
the number of crewmembers required to hold valid MMDs or MMCs with the
proper tankerman endorsement. Table 15.860(h)(1) of this section
provides the minimal requirements for tankermen aboard manned tank
vessels; Table 15.860(h)(2) of this section provides the tankerman
endorsements required for personnel aboard tankships.
    (b) For each tankship of more than 5,000 GRT/GT certified for
voyages beyond the boundary line as described in Part 7 of this
chapter:
    (1) The number of tankerman-PICs or restricted tankerman-PICs
carried must be at least two;
    (2) The number of tankerman-assistants carried must be at least
three; and
    (3) The number of tankerman-engineers carried must be at least two.
    (c) For each tankship of 5,000 GRT/GT or less certified for voyages
beyond the boundary line:
    (1) The number of tankerman-PICs or restricted tankerman-PICs
carried must be at least two; and
    (2) The number of tankerman-engineers carried must be at least two,
unless only one engineer is required, in which case the number of
tankerman-engineers carried may be just one.
    (d) For each tankship not certified for voyages beyond the boundary
line, as described in Part 7 of this chapter, if the total crew
complement is:
    (1) One or two, the number of tankerman-PICs or restricted
tankerman-PICs carried may be just one; or
    (2) More than two, the number of tankerman-PICs or restricted
tankerman-PICs carried must be at least two.
    (e) For each tank barge manned under Sec.  31.15-5 of this chapter,
if the total crew complement is:
    (1) One or two, the number of tankerman-PICs, restricted tankerman-
PICs, tankerman-PICs (barge), or restricted tankerman-PICs (barge)
carried may be just one; or
    (2) More than two, the number of tankerman-PICs, restricted
tankerman-PICs, tankerman-PICs (barge), or restricted tankerman-PICs
(barge) carried must be at least two.
    (f) The following personnel aboard each tankship certified for
voyages beyond the boundary line, as described in part 7 of this
chapter, must hold valid MMDs or MMCs, endorsed as follows:
    (1) The master and chief mate must each hold a tankerman-PIC or
restricted tankerman-PIC endorsement.
    (2) The chief, first assistant, and cargo engineers must each hold
a tankerman-engineer or tankerman-PIC endorsement.
    (3) Every credentialed officer acting as the PIC of a transfer of
liquid cargo in bulk must hold a tankerman-PIC or restricted tankerman-
PIC endorsement.
    (4) Every officer or crewmember who is assigned by the PIC duties
and responsibilities related to the cargo or cargo-handling equipment
during a transfer of liquid cargo in bulk, but is not directly
supervised by the PIC, must hold a tankerman-assistant endorsement.
    (g) The endorsements required by this section must be for the
classification of the liquid cargo in bulk or of the cargo residue
being carried.
    (h) Because the STCW Convention does not recognize restricted
Tankerman-PIC endorsements, persons may act under these only aboard
vessels conducting business inside the boundary line, as described in
Part 7 of this chapter.

                Table 15.860(h)(1)--Minimal Requirements for Tankermen Aboard Manned Tank Vessels
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                Tankerman PIC
                  Tank vessels                     Tankerman-PIC     Tankerman       Tankerman     or tankerman-
                                                                     assistant       engineer       PIC (barge)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tankship Certified for Voyages Beyond Boundary
 Line:
    Over 5,000 GRT/GT...........................               2               3               2
    5,000 GRT/GT or less........................               2  ..............             * 2
Tankship Not Certified for Voyages Beyond                   ** 2
 Boundary Line..................................
Tank Barge......................................  ..............  ..............  ..............           *** 2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* If only one engineer is required, then only one Tankerman Engineer is required.
** If the total crew complement is one or two persons, then only one Tankerman-PIC is required.
*** If the total crew complement is one or two persons, then only one Tankerman-PIC or Tankerman-PIC (Barge) is
  required.

               Table 15.860(h)(2)--Tankermen Endorsements Required for Personnel Aboard Tankships
                [Endorsement for the Classification of the Bulk Liquid Cargo or Residues Carried]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Tankship certified for voyages                                   Tankerman        Tankerman
        beyond boundary line           Tankerman-PIC                 engineer        assistant
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Master..............................               X
Chief Mate..........................               X
Chief Engineer......................               X        or                X
First Assistant Engineer............               X        or                X
Cargo Engineer......................               X        or                X
Credentialed Officer Acting as PIC                 X
 of Transfer of Liquid Cargo in Bulk
Credentialed Officer or Crewmember    ...............  ........  ...............               X
 Not Directly Supervised by PIC.....
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Subpart H--Equivalents

    165. Revise Sec.  15.901 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.901  Inspected vessels of less than 100 GRT/250 GT.

    (a) An individual holding a license or MMC endorsed as mate or
pilot of inspected, self-propelled vessels of 200 GRT/500 GT or more is
authorized to serve as master on inspected vessels of less than 100
GRT/250 GT within any restrictions on the individual's license or MMC.
    (b) An individual holding a license or MMC endorsed as master or
mate of inspected, self-propelled vessels is authorized to serve as
master or mate, respectively, of non-self-propelled vessels other than
sail vessels, within any restrictions on the individual's license or
MMC.
    (c) An individual holding a license or MMC endorsed as master or
mate of inspected sail vessels is authorized to serve as master or
mate, respectively, of other non-self-propelled vessels, within any
restrictions on the individual's license or MMC.
    (d) An individual holding a license or MMC endorsed as master or
mate of inspected, auxiliary sail vessels, is authorized to serve as
master or mate, respectively, of self-propelled and non-self-propelled
vessels, within any restrictions on the individual's license or MMC.
    166. Revise Sec.  15.905 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.905  Uninspected passenger vessels.

    (a) An individual holding a license or MMC endorsed as master or
pilot of an inspected, self-propelled vessel is authorized to serve as
operator of an uninspected passenger vessel less than 100 GRT/250 GT
within any restrictions, other than tonnage limitations, on the
individual's license or MMC.
    (b) An individual holding a license or MMC endorsed as a master or
pilot of an inspected, self-propelled vessel is authorized to serve as
master, as required by Sec.  15.805(a)(6) of this part, of an
uninspected passenger vessel of 100 GRT/250 GT or more within any
restrictions, including tonnage and route, on the individual's license
or MMC.
    (c) An individual holding a license or MMC endorsed as mate of
inspected, self-propelled vessels (other than Great Lakes, inland, or
river vessels of less than 200 GRT/500 GT) is authorized to serve as
operator of uninspected passenger vessels of less than 100 GRT/250 GT
within any restrictions, other than tonnage limitations, on the
individual's license or MMC.
    167. Revise Sec.  15.915 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.915  Engineer officer endorsements.

    (a) The following license and MMC officer endorsements authorize
the holder to serve as noted, within any restrictions on the license or
MMC:
    (1) An engineer officer's license or endorsement issued in the
grade of chief engineer (limited) or assistant engineer (limited) on
vessels as specified in Sec.  11.501(d) of this subchapter.
    (2) An engineer's license or endorsement issued in any grade of DDE
authorizes the holder to serve as chief engineer or assistant engineer
on vessels of not more than 500 GRT/1,200 GT on the Great Lakes and
inland waters, on seagoing vessels of not more than 500 GRT/1,200 GT
specified in 15.103(2) of this part, and on seagoing vessels of not
more than 500 GRT/1,200 GT propelled by machinery of less than 1,000
HP/750 kW within any limitations of the license or endorsement.
    (b) On Great Lakes or inland waters, an engineer holding a license
or MMC endorsement for steam or motor propulsion may serve also on a
gas turbine-propelled vessel.

Subpart J--Vessels Subject to Requirements of STCW

    168. Revise Sec.  15.1101 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.1101  General.

    (a) Except as noted in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this paragraph,
the regulations in this subpart apply to seagoing vessels.
    (1) The following vessels are exempt from application of the STCW
Convention:
    (i) Fishing vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(11)(a);
    (ii) Fishing vessels used as fish-tender vessels as defined in 46
U.S.C. 2101(11)(c);
    (iii) Barges as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(2), including non-self-
propelled MODUs; and
    (iv) Vessels operating exclusively on the Great Lakes.
    (2) The following small vessels engaged exclusively on domestic,
near-coastal voyages, are not subject to further obligation for the
purposes of the STCW Convention:
    (i) Small passenger vessels subject to subchapter T or K of title
46, CFR;
    (ii) Vessels of less than 200 GRT/500 GT (other than passenger
vessels subject to subchapter H of title 46 CFR); and
    (iii) Uninspected passenger vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C.
2101(42)(B).
    (b) Masters, mates, and engineers serving on vessels identified in
paragraph (a)(2) of this section may be issued, without additional
proof of qualification, an appropriate STCW endorsement when the Coast
Guard determines that such a document is necessary to enable the vessel
to engage on a single international voyage of a non-routine nature. The
STCW endorsement will be expressly limited to service on the vessel or
the class of vessels and will not establish qualification for any other
purpose. All personnel on the specified vessels must comply with the
requirements of Sec.  15.1105 of this part when the vessel is engaged
on an international voyage.
    (c) A vessel with a valid Safety Management Certificate and a copy
of a Document of Compliance issued for that vessel under 46 U.S.C. 3205
is presumed to comply with the STCW Convention.

    169. Revise Sec.  15.1103 to read as follows:

Sec.  15.1103  Employment and service within the restrictions of an
STCW endorsement or of a certificate of training.

    (a) Onboard a seagoing vessel operating beyond the boundary line,
as described in Part 7 of this chapter, no person may employ or engage
any person to serve, and no person may serve, in a position requiring a
person to hold an STCW endorsement, including master, chief mate, chief
engineer, second engineer, officer of the navigational or engineering
watch, or GMDSS radio operator, unless the person serving holds an
appropriate, valid STCW endorsement issued in accordance with part 11
of this subchapter.
    (b) Onboard a seagoing vessel of 200 GRT/500 GT or more, no person
may employ or engage any person to serve, and no person may serve, as
an RFPNW, except for training, unless the person serving holds an
appropriate, valid STCW endorsement issued in accordance with part 12
of this subchapter.
    (c) Onboard a seagoing vessel driven by main propulsion machinery
of 1,000 HP/750 kW propulsion power or more, no person may employ or
engage any person to serve, and no person may serve, in a rating
forming part of a watch in a manned engine room, nor may any person be
designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned engine room,
except for training or for the performance of duties of an unskilled
nature, unless the person serving holds an appropriate, valid STCW
endorsement issued in accordance with part 12 of this subchapter.
    (d) Onboard a Ro-Ro passenger ship, or on a passenger ship other
than a Ro-Ro passenger ship as defined by the Convention for the Safety
of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS), on an international voyage,
any person serving as master, chief mate, mate, chief engineer,
engineer officer, and any person holding a license, MMD or MMC and
performing duties towards safety, cargo handling, or care for
passengers, must meet the appropriate requirements of Regulation V/2 or