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HR 3331

Mariner Exam Modernization Act

119th Congress Introduced by Salud Carbajal and 2 co-sponsors

Mariner Exam Modernization Act (HR 3331) SummaryThe Mariner Exam Modernization Act is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on May 13, 2025. The main purpose of th

Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Discharged
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Bill Summary · HR 3331

Mariner Exam Modernization Act (HR 3331)

Summary

The Mariner Exam Modernization Act is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on May 13, 2025. The main purpose of the bill is to update and streamline the process for merchant mariners to obtain or renew their professional credentials and licenses.

Key Provisions

The bill would make the following key changes:

  1. Digitize Mariner Credentialing Process: Require the U.S. Coast Guard to develop an online platform for mariners to electronically apply for, renew, and manage their credentials and licenses.

  2. Streamline Renewal Process: Allow mariners to automatically renew their credentials up to 1 year in advance of the expiration date, without having to retake full exams.

  3. Expand Medical Certification Validity: Increase the maximum validity period for merchant mariner medical certificates from 2 years to 5 years for lower-risk positions.

  4. Establish Regional Exam Centers: Direct the Coast Guard to establish additional regional exam centers across the country to improve mariners' access to testing locations.

  5. Modernize Exam Content and Format: Require the Coast Guard to update the content and format of licensing exams to reflect current industry standards and best practices.

Impact

The Mariner Exam Modernization Act is intended to:

  • Reduce administrative burdens and wait times for merchant mariners seeking to obtain or renew their credentials.
  • Improve access to testing locations and modernize the overall credentialing process.
  • Align medical certification requirements with industry standards to provide more flexibility for lower-risk mariner positions.
  • Ensure the content and format of licensing exams keeps pace with evolving maritime industry technologies and practices.

The bill's provisions would primarily affect the approximately 210,000 active merchant mariners in the United States, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard which oversees the credentialing program.

Next Steps

The Mariner Exam Modernization Act was referred to the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, which has now discharged the bill. This means it can proceed to further consideration and potential voting by the full House of Representatives.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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