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Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR Part 13 (June 2, 2025)
This content is from the eCFR and is authoritative but unofficial.
Title 46 —Shipping
Chapter I —Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security
Subchapter B —Merchant Marine Officers and Seamen
Part 13 Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
Subpart A General
§ 13.101 Purpose.
§ 13.103 Incorporation by reference.
§ 13.105 Paperwork approval.
§ 13.106 Requirement to hold an MMC.
§ 13.107 Tank vessel endorsements: General.
§ 13.109 Tank vessel endorsements: Authorized cargoes.
§ 13.111 Restricted tank vessel endorsements.
§ 13.113 [Reserved]
§ 13.115 Chemical testing requirements.
§ 13.117 Re-issuance of expired tank vessel endorsements.
§ 13.119 Expiration of endorsements.
§ 13.120 Renewal of tank vessel endorsements.
§ 13.121 Courses for tank vessel endorsements.
§ 13.123 Recency of service or experience for original tank vessel endorsements.
§ 13.125 Physical and medical requirements.
§ 13.127 Service: General.
§ 13.129 Quick-reference table for tank vessel endorsements.
Subpart B Requirements for Tank Vessel-PIC Endorsement
§ 13.201 Original application for Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement.
§ 13.203 Service requirements.
§ 13.205 Proof of service for Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement.
Subpart C Requirements for Tank Barge-PIC Endorsement
§ 13.301 Original application for Tank Barge-PIC endorsement.
§ 13.303 Service requirements.
§ 13.305 Proof of service for Tank Barge-PIC.
Subpart D Requirements for Tank Vessel-Assistant Endorsement
§ 13.401 Original application for Tank Vessel-Assistant endorsement.
§ 13.403 Service requirements.
§ 13.405 Proof of service for Tank Vessel-Assistant endorsement.
Subpart E Requirements for Tank Vessel-Engineer Endorsement
§ 13.501 Original application for Tank Vessel-Engineer endorsement.
46 CFR Part 13 (June 2, 2025) (enhanced display)
page 1 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
§ 13.503
§ 13.505
Subpart F
§ 13.601
§ 13.603
§ 13.605
§ 13.607
§ 13.609
§ 13.611
46 CFR Part 13 (June 2, 2025)
Service requirements.
Proof of service for Tank Vessel-Engineer endorsement.
Requirements for STCW Tank Vessel Endorsements
General.
Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo
Operations.
Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Advanced Chemical Tanker
Cargo Operations.
Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Advanced Liquefied Gas
Tanker Cargo Operations.
Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker
Cargo Operations.
Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Basic Liquefied Gas Tanker
Cargo Operations.
PART 13—CERTIFICATION OF TANK VESSEL PERSONNEL
Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3703, 7317, 8105, 8703, 9102; DHS Delegation No. 00170.1, Revision No. 01.4.
Source: CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by USCG-2021-0097, 89 FR 93106, Nov. 25, 2024,
unless otherwise noted.
Subpart A—General
§ 13.101 Purpose.
This part describes the various tank vessel endorsements issued by the Coast Guard on a Merchant Mariner
Credential (MMC).
(a) This part prescribes the requirements for the following endorsements:
(1) Tank Vessel-PIC.
(2) Tank Barge-PIC .
(3) Restricted Tank Vessel-PIC.
(4) Restricted Tank Barge-PIC .
(5) Tank Vessel-Assistant.
(6) Tank Vessel-Engineer.
(b) This part prescribes the requirements for the following STCW endorsements:
(1) Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operation.
(2) Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operation.
46 CFR 13.101(b)(2) (enhanced display)
page 2 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.101(b)(3)
(3) Advanced Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operation.
(4) Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operation.
(5) Basic Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operation.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77987, Dec. 24, 2013]
§ 13.103 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. All approved incorporation by reference material (IBR) is
available for inspection at the Coast Guard and the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). Contact Coast Guard at: Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing (CG-MMC), U.S. Coast Guard,
Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; phone: 202-372-1492;
website: https://www.dco.uscg.mil/nmc/merchant_mariner_credential/. For information on the availability
of this material at NARA,Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov. The material may be obtained from:
(b) International Maritime Organization (IMO), 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, England; phone: +44
(0)20 7735 7611; website: www.imo.org.
(1) The Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Code, as amended, 2011 (the STCW Code);
approved for incorporation by reference in §§ 13.601, 13.603, 13.605, 13.607, 13.609, and 13.611;
and
(2) [Reserved]
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77987, Dec. 24, 2013, as amended by USCG-2016-0315, 81 FR 43955, July 6, 2016]
§ 13.105 Paperwork approval.
(a) This section lists the control numbers assigned by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 [Pub. L. 96-511] for the reporting and recordkeeping requirements in
this part.
(b) OMB has assigned the following control numbers to the sections indicated:
(1) OMB 1625-0040—46 CFR 13.113, 13.115, 13.117, 13.201, 13.203, 13.205, 13.301, 13.303, 13.305,
13.401, 13.403, 13.405, 13.501, 13.503, 13.505.
(2) OMB 1625-0028—46 CFR 13.121, 13.207, 13.209, 13.307, 13.309, 13.407, 13.409, 13.507, 13.509.
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by USCG-2004-18884, 69 FR 58343, Sept. 30, 2004]
§ 13.106 Requirement to hold an MMC.
An applicant for any endorsement in this part must also meet the requirements for the MMC on which the
endorsement would appear. These requirements are set out in part 10 of this subchapter.
[USCG-2006-24371, 74 FR 11259, Mar. 16, 2009, as amended by USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77988, Dec. 24, 2013]
46 CFR 13.106 (enhanced display)
page 3 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.107
§ 13.107 Tank vessel endorsements: General.
(a) If an applicant meets the requirements of subpart B of this part, the Coast Guard may endorse their MMC
as Tank Vessel-PIC with the appropriate cargo classification or classifications. A person holding this
endorsement and meeting the other requirements of 33 CFR 155.710(a) may act as a PIC of a transfer of
fuel oil, of a transfer of liquid cargo in bulk, or of cargo-tank cleaning on any tank vessel. That person may
also act as a Tank Vessel-Engineer, provided they also hold an engineer officer endorsement.
(b) If an applicant meets the requirements of subpart C of this part, the Coast Guard may endorse their MMC
as Tank Barge-PIC with the appropriate cargo classification or classifications. A person holding this
endorsement and meeting the other requirements of 33 CFR 155.710(b) may act as a PIC of a transfer of
liquid cargo in bulk only on a tank barge.
(c) If an applicant meets the requirements of subpart D of this part, the Coast Guard may endorse their MMC
as Tank Vessel-Assistant with the appropriate cargo classification or classifications. No person holding
this endorsement may act as a PIC of any transfer of fuel oil, of any transfer of liquid cargo in bulk, or of
cargo-tank cleaning unless they also hold an endorsement authorizing service as PIC. They may, however,
without being directly supervised by the PIC, perform duties relative to cargo and cargo-handling
equipment assigned by the PIC of transfers of fuel oil, of transfers of liquid cargo in bulk, or of cargo-tank
cleaning. When performing these duties, they must maintain continuous two-way voice communications
with the PIC.
(d) If an applicant meets the requirements of subpart E of this part, the Coast Guard may endorse their MMC
as Tank Vessel-Engineer. No person holding this endorsement may act as a PIC or Tank Vessel-Assistant
of any transfer of liquid cargo in bulk, or of cargo-tank cleaning unless they also hold an endorsement
authorizing such service. A person holding this endorsement and acting in this capacity has the primary
responsibility, on their self-propelled tank vessel carrying dangerous liquid (DL) or liquefied gas (LG), for
maintaining both the cargo systems and equipment for transfer of liquid cargo in bulk. No person
credentialed under part 11 of this chapter may serve as a Chief Engineer, First Assistant Engineer, or
Cargo Engineer aboard an inspected self-propelled tank vessel when liquid cargo in bulk or cargo residue
is carried unless they hold an endorsement as Tank Vessel-Engineer or equivalent.
(e) If an applicant meets the requirements of § 13.111, the Coast Guard may place, on their MMC, an
endorsement as a Tank Vessel-PIC restricted according to the definitions of “restricted tank vessel
endorsement” in § 10.107 of this subchapter.
(f) This section does not apply to any person solely by reason of their involvement in bunkering or fueling.
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by CGD 79-116, 62 FR 25127, May 8, 1997; USCG-2008-0906, 73 FR 56508,
Sept. 29, 2008; USCG-2006-24371, 74 FR 11259, Mar. 16, 2009; USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77988, Dec. 24, 2013]
§ 13.109 Tank vessel endorsements: Authorized cargoes.
(a) Each tank vessel endorsement described in § 13.107 will expressly limit the holder's service under it to
transfers involving one or both of the following cargo classifications:
(1) Dangerous liquid (DL).
(2) Liquefied gas (LG).
(b) No tank vessel endorsement is necessary to transfer the liquid cargoes in bulk listed in table 2 of part 153
of this subchapter when those cargoes are carried on barges not certified for ocean service.
46 CFR 13.109(b) (enhanced display)
page 4 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.111
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by USCG-2008-0906, 73 FR 56508, Sept. 29, 2008; USCG-2006-24371, 74 FR
11259, Mar. 16, 2009; USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77988, Dec. 24, 2013]
§ 13.111 Restricted tank vessel endorsements.
(a) An applicant may apply for a tank vessel endorsement restricted to specific cargoes, specific vessels, or
groups of vessels (such as uninspected towing vessels and oil spill response vessels), specific facilities,
and/or specific employers. The Coast Guard will evaluate each application and may modify the applicable
requirements for the endorsement, allowing for special circumstances and for whichever restrictions the
endorsement will state.
(b) To qualify for a Restricted Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement, an applicant must meet §§ 13.201 (excluding
paragraph (c)(4)), 13.203, and 13.205.
(1) Twenty-five percent of the service described in § 13.203(a) must have occurred within the past 5
years.
(2) Two of the transfers described in § 13.203(b) must have occurred within the past 5 years.
(c) To qualify for a Restricted Tank Barge-PIC endorsement, an applicant must meet §§ 13.301 (excluding
paragraph (c)(4)), 13.303, and 13.305.
(1) Twenty-five percent of the service described in § 13.303(a) must have occurred within the past 5
years.
(2) Two of the transfers described in § 13.303(b) must have occurred within the past 5 years.
(d) To qualify for a Restricted Tank Barge-PIC endorsement restricted to a tank-cleaning and gas-freeing
facility, an applicant must—
(1) Be at least 18 years old;
(2) Apply on a form provided by the Coast Guard;
(3) Provide evidence of passing a physical and medical examination according to § 13.125;
(4) Provide evidence in a method prescribed by the Coast Guard, which must be dated within the 5 years
prior to the application for the credential, from the operator of the facility stating that OSHA
considers the applicant a “competent person (as designated under 29 CFR 1915.7)” for the facility
and that the applicant has the knowledge necessary to supervise tank-cleaning and gas-freeing; and
(5) Be capable of speaking and understanding, in English, all instructions needed to commence,
conduct, and complete a transfer of cargo, and of reading and understanding the English found in
the Declaration of Inspection, vessel response plans, and Cargo Information Cards.
(e) The Restricted Tank Barge-PIC endorsement restricted to a tank-cleaning and gas-freeing facility is valid
only while the applicant is employed by the operator of the facility that provided the letter of service
required by paragraph (d)(4) of this section, and this and any other appropriate restrictions will appear in
the endorsement.
(f) A restricted Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement limited to operation on vessels inside the boundary line is not
valid where STCW certification is required.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77988, Dec. 24, 2013, as amended by USCG-2021-0834, 89 FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
46 CFR 13.111(f) (enhanced display)
page 5 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.113
§ 13.113 [Reserved]
§ 13.115 Chemical testing requirements.
Each applicant for an original tank vessel endorsement must provide evidence of having passed a chemical test for
dangerous drugs or of qualifying for an exemption from testing in § 16.220 of this subchapter as specified in §
10.225(b)(5) of this subchapter.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77988, Dec. 24, 2013]
§ 13.117 Re-issuance of expired tank vessel endorsements.
Whenever an applicant applies for re-issuance of any tank vessel endorsement more than 12 months after
expiration of the previous endorsement, the applicant must meet the requirements for an original endorsement.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77988, Dec. 24, 2013]
§ 13.119 Expiration of endorsements.
A tank vessel endorsement is valid for the duration of the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) on which the
endorsement appears.
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by USCG-2006-24371, 74 FR 11259, Mar. 16, 2009]
§ 13.120 Renewal of tank vessel endorsements.
An applicant seeking renewal of a tank vessel endorsement or an STCW endorsement valid for service on tank
vessels must meet the requirements of § 10.227 of this subchapter, except § 10.227(e)(1), for renewing an MMC,
and meet the following additional requirements:
(a) For endorsements as Tank Vessel-PIC, Advanced Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operation; and Advanced
Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations, provide evidence of—
(1) At least 90 days of service during the preceding 5 years onboard a tank vessel for which the
endorsement is valid, performing duties appropriate to the tank vessel endorsement held; and
participation in at least two transfers of liquid cargo in bulk of the type for which the endorsement is
valid within the preceding 5 years; or
(2) Completion of an approved course for Tankship: Dangerous Liquids or Tankship: Liquefied Gases,
appropriate for the endorsement to be renewed, within the previous 5 years.
(b) For endorsements as Tank Vessel-Assistant, Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operation; and Basic
Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations, provide evidence of—
(1) At least 90 days of service during the preceding 5 years onboard a tank vessel for which the
endorsement is valid, performing duties appropriate to the tank vessel endorsement held; or
(2) Completion of an approved course for Tankship: Dangerous Liquids or Tankship: Liquefied Gases,
appropriate for the endorsement to be renewed, within the previous 5 years.
(c) For endorsements as Tank Barge-PIC, provide evidence of—
46 CFR 13.120(c) (enhanced display)
page 6 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.120(c)(1)
(1) Participation in at least two transfers of liquid cargo in bulk of the type for which the endorsement is
valid, within the preceding 5 years; or
(2) Completion of a course approved for this purpose, appropriate for the endorsement to be renewed,
within the previous 5 years.
(d) For endorsements as Tank Vessel-Engineer, provide evidence of—
(1) At least 90 days of service during the preceding 5 years onboard a tank vessel for which the
endorsement is valid, performing duties appropriate to the tank vessel endorsement held; or
(2) Completion of a course approved for this purpose, appropriate for the endorsement to be renewed,
within the previous 5 years.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77989, Dec. 24, 2013, as amended by USCG-2021-0834, 89 FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
§ 13.121 Courses for tank vessel endorsements.
(a) This section prescribes the requirements, beyond those in §§ 10.302 and 10.304 of this subchapter,
applicable to schools offering courses required for a tank vessel endorsement and courses that are a
substitute for experience with transfers of liquid cargo in bulk required for the endorsement.
(b) A course that uses simulated transfers to train students in loading and discharging tank vessels may
replace up to two loadings and two discharges, one commencement and one completion of loading, and
one commencement and one completion of discharge required for a Tank Vessel-PIC or Tank Barge-PIC
endorsement. The request for approval of the course must specify those segments of a transfer that the
course will simulate. The letter from the Coast Guard approving the course will state the number and kind
of segments that the course will replace.
(c) The Liquid Cargo course required for an endorsement as—
(1) Tank Vessel-PIC DL is Tankship: Dangerous Liquids;
(2) Tank Barge-PIC DL is Tank Barge: Dangerous Liquids;
(3) Tank Vessel-PIC LG is Tankship: Liquefied Gases;
(4) Tank barge-PIC LG is Tank Barge: Liquefied Gases;
(5) Tank Vessel-Assistant DL is Tankship: Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids);
(6) Tank Vessel-Assistant LG is Tankship: Familiarization (Liquefied Gases);
(7) Tank Vessel-Engineer DL is Tankship: Dangerous Liquids; and
(8) Tank Vessel-Engineer LG is Tankship: Liquefied Gases.
(d) The firefighting course required for an endorsement as—
(1) Tank Barge-PIC is Tank Barge: Firefighting or Basic Firefighting; and
(2) Tank Vessel-PIC, Tank Vessel-Assistant, and Tank Vessel-Engineer is basic firefighting.
(e) The Coast Guard will evaluate and approve the curricula of courses to ensure adequate coverage of the
required subjects. Training may employ classroom instruction, demonstrations, or simulated or actual
operations.
46 CFR 13.121(e) (enhanced display)
page 7 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.121(e)(1)
(1) The course curricula for Tankship Familiarization must consist of the topics identified in table 1 to §
13.121(e).
(2) The course curricula for Tank Vessel-PIC, Tank Barge-PIC, and Tank Vessel-Engineer endorsements
must consist of the topics identified in table 2 to § 13.121(e).
(3) The course curricula for firefighting courses must consist of the topics identified in table 3 to §
13.121(e).
TABLE 1 TO § 13.121(e)
Tankship familiarization topics
1 2
Types of oil and chemical vessels or liquefied gas tanker vessels
X X
General arrangement and construction
X X
Basic knowledge of tankers:
Basic knowledge of cargo operations:
Piping systems and valves
X X
Cargo pumps and cargo handling equipment
X X
Loading and unloading and care in transit
X X
Tank cleaning, purging, gas-freeing and inerting
X X
Basic knowledge of the physical properties of oil and chemicals:
Pressure and temperature, including vapor pressure/temperature relationship
X
Types of electrostatic charge generation
X
chemical symbols
X
Basic knowledge of the physical properties of liquefied gases, including:
Properties and characteristics
X
Pressure and temperature, including vapor pressure/temperature relationship
X
Types of electrostatic charge generation
X
Chemical symbols
X
Knowledge and understanding of tanker safety culture and safety management
X X
Basic knowledge of the hazards associated with tanker operations, including:
Health hazards
X X
Environmental hazards
X X
Reactivity hazards
X X
Corrosion hazards
X X
Explosion and flammability hazards
X X
Sources of ignition
X X
Electrostatic hazards
X X
Toxicity hazards
X X
Vapor leaks and clouds
X X
Column 1—Tankship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids).
Column 2—Tankship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases).
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3) (enhanced display)
page 8 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3)
Tankship familiarization topics
1 2
Extremely low temperatures
X
Pressure hazards
X
Basic knowledge of hazard controls:
Inerting, water padding, drying agents and monitoring techniques
X X
Anti-static measures
X X
Ventilation
X X
Segregation
X X
Cargo inhibition
X X
Importance of cargo compatibility
X X
Atmospheric control
X X
Gas testing
X X
Understanding of information on a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
X X
Function and proper use of gas-measuring instruments and similar equipment
X X
Proper use of safety equipment and protective devices, including:
Breathing apparatus and tank-evacuating equipment
X X
Protective clothing and equipment
X X
Resuscitators
X X
Rescue and escape equipment
X X
Basic knowledge of safe working practices and procedures in accordance with legislation
and industry guidelines and personal shipboard safety relevant to oil and chemical tankers,
including:
Precautions to be taken when entering enclosed spaces
X X
Precautions to be taken before and during repair and maintenance work
X X
Safety measures for hot and cold work
X X
Electrical safety
X X
Ship/shore safety checklist
X X
Basic knowledge of first aid with reference to a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
X X
Basic knowledge of emergency procedures, including emergency shutdown
X X
Basic knowledge of the effects of oil and chemical pollution on human and marine life
X X
Basic knowledge of shipboard procedures to prevent pollution
X X
Basic knowledge of measures to be taken in the event of spillage, including the need to:
Report relevant information to the responsible persons
X X
Assist in implementing shipboard spill-containment procedures
X X
Column 1—Tankship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids).
Column 2—Tankship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases).
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3) (enhanced display)
page 9 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3)
Tankship familiarization topics
1 2
prevent brittle fracture
X
Column 1—Tankship Familiarization (Dangerous Liquids).
Column 2—Tankship Familiarization (Liquefied Gases).
TABLE 2 TO § 13.121(e)
Tankship and tank barge course topics
1 2 3 4
General characteristics, compatibility, reaction, firefighting procedures, and safety
precautions for the cargoes of:
Bulk liquids defined as Dangerous Liquids in 46 CFR Part 13
X X
Bulk liquefied gases & their vapors defined as Liquefied Gases in 46 CFR Part 13
Knowledge and understanding of the physical and chemical properties of oil and
chemical cargoes
X X
X
Physical phenomena of liquefied gas, including:
Basic concept
X X
Compression and expansion
X X
Mechanism of heat transfer
X X
Potential hazards of liquefied gas, including:
Chemical and physical properties
X X
Combustion characteristics
X X
Results of gas release to the atmosphere
X X
Health hazards (skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion)
X X
Control of flammability range with inert gas
X X
Thermal stress in structure and piping of vessel
X X
Cargo systems, including:
Principles of containment systems
Construction, materials, coating, & insulation of cargo tanks
X X X X
X X
General arrangement of cargo tanks
X X X X
Venting and vapor-control systems
X X X X
Cargo-handling systems, including:
Piping systems, valves, pumps, and expansion systems
X X X X
Operating characteristics
X X X X
Column 1—Tankship: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 2—Tank Barge: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 3—Tankship: Liquefied Gases.
Column 4—Tank Barge: Liquefied Gases.
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3) (enhanced display)
page 10 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
Tankship and tank barge course topics
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3)
1 2 3 4
Instrumentation systems, including:
Cargo-level indicators
X X X X
Gas-detecting systems
X
X X
Temperature-monitoring systems, cargo
X
X X
Temperature-monitoring systems, hull
Automatic-shutdown systems
X X
X
X X
Auxiliary systems, including:
Ventilation, inerting
X X X X
Valves, including:
Quick-closing
X X X X
Remote-control
X X X X
Pneumatic
X X X X
Excess-flow
X X X X
Safety-relief
X X X X
Pressure-vacuum
X X X X
Heating-systems: cofferdams & ballast tanks
X X
Operations connected with the loading and discharging of cargo, including:
Lining up the cargo and vapor-control systems
X X X X
Pre-transfer inspections and completion of the Declaration of Inspection
X X X X
Hooking up of cargo hose, loading arms, and grounding-strap
X X X X
Starting of liquid flow
X X X X
Calculation of loading rates
X
Discussion of loading
X X X X
Ballasting and deballasting
X X X X
Topping off of the cargo tanks
X X X X
Discussion of discharging
X X X X
Stripping of the cargo tanks
X X
Monitoring of transfers
X X X X
Gauging of cargo tanks
X X X X
Disconnecting of cargo hoses or loading arms
X X X X
Cargo-tank-cleaning procedures and precautions
X X
Slop arrangements
X
Ship-to-ship transfers
X
X
Operating procedures and sequence for:
Inerting of cargo tanks and void spaces
X X X X
Column 1—Tankship: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 2—Tank Barge: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 3—Tankship: Liquefied Gases.
Column 4—Tank Barge: Liquefied Gases.
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3) (enhanced display)
page 11 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
Tankship and tank barge course topics
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3)
1 2 3 4
Cooldown and warmup of cargo tanks
X X
Gas-freeing
X X X X
Loaded or ballasted voyages
X
Testing of cargo-tank atmospheres for oxygen & cargo vapor
X X X X
X
Stability and stress considerations connected with loading and discharging of cargo
X X X X
Loadline, draft, and trim
X X X X
Disposal of boil-off, including:
System design
X X
Safety features
X X
Stability-letter requirements
X
X
Emergency procedures, including notice to appropriate authorities, for:
Fire
X X X X
Collision
X X X X
Grounding
X X X X
Equipment failure
X X X X
Leaks and spills
X X X
Structural failure
X X X X
Emergency discharge of cargo
X X X X
Entering cargo tanks
X X X X
Emergency shutdown of cargo-handling
X X X X
Emergency systems for closing cargo tanks
X X
Rules & regulations (international and Federal, for all tank vessels) on conducting
operations and preventing pollution
X X X X
Pollution prevention, including:
Procedures to prevent air and water pollution
X X X X
Measures to take in event of spillage
X X X X
Danger from drift of vapor cloud
X X X X
Environmental protection equipment, including oil discharge monitoring equipment
X
Terminology for tankships carrying oil and chemicals
X
Terminology for tank barges carrying oil and chemicals
X
Terminology for tankships carrying liquefied gases
X
Terminology for tank barges carrying liquefied gases
X
Principles & procedures of crude-oil-washing (COW) systems, including:
Purpose
X
Equipment and design
X
Column 1—Tankship: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 2—Tank Barge: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 3—Tankship: Liquefied Gases.
Column 4—Tank Barge: Liquefied Gases.
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3) (enhanced display)
page 12 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
Tankship and tank barge course topics
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3)
1 2 3 4
Operations
X
Safety precautions
X
Maintenance of plant and equipment
X
Principles & procedures of the inert-gas systems (IGSs), including:
Purpose
X
X
Equipment and design
X
X
Operations
X
X
Safety precautions
X
X
Maintenance of plant and equipment
X
X
Principles & procedures of vapor-control systems, including:
Purpose
X X X X
Principles
X X X X
Coast Guard regulations
X X X X
Hazards
X X X X
Active system components
X X X X
Passive system components
X X X X
Operating procedures, including:
Testing and inspection requirements
X X X X
Pre-transfer procedures
X X X X
Connecting sequence
X X X X
Start-up sequence
X X X X
Normal operations
X X X X
Loading and unloading plans
X
Emergency procedures
X X X X
Cargo-hazard-information systems
X X X X
Safe entry into confined spaces, including:
Testing tank atmospheres for oxygen & hydrocarbon vapors
X X
Definition and hazards of confined spaces
X X X X
Cargo tanks and pumprooms
X X X X
Evaluation and assessment of risks and hazards
X X X X
Safety precautions and procedures
X X X X
Enclosed space rescue
X
Personnel protective equipment (PPE) and clothing
X X X X
Maintenance of PPE
X X X X
Dangers of skin contact
X X X X
Column 1—Tankship: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 2—Tank Barge: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 3—Tankship: Liquefied Gases.
Column 4—Tank Barge: Liquefied Gases.
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3) (enhanced display)
page 13 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3)
Tankship and tank barge course topics
1 2 3 4
Inhalation of vapors
X X
Electricity and static electricity—hazards and precautions
X X X X
Emergency procedures
X X X X
Federal regulations, national standards & industry guidelines
X X X X
Inspections by marine chemists & competent persons, including hot-work permits &
procedures
X X X X
Vessel response plans:
Purpose, content, and location of information
X X X X
Procedures for notice and mitigation of spills
X X X X
Geographic-specific appendices
X X X X
Vessel-specific appendices
X X X X
Emergency-action checklist
X X X X
Column 1—Tankship: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 2—Tank Barge: Dangerous Liquids.
Column 3—Tankship: Liquefied Gases.
Column 4—Tank Barge: Liquefied Gases.
TABLE 3 TO § 13.121(e)
Firefighting course topics
1
2
Elements of fire (Fire triangle):
Fuel
X X
Source of ignition
X X
Oxygen
X X
Ignition sources (general):
Chemical
X
Biological
X
Physical
X
Ignition sources applicable to barges
X
Definitions of flammability and combustibility:
Flammability
X X
Ignition point
X X
Burning temperature
X X
Burning speed
X
Column 1—Tank Barge-PIC.
Column 2—Tank Vessel-PIC, Tank Vessel-Engineer, and Tank Vessel-Assistant.
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3) (enhanced display)
page 14 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3)
Firefighting course topics
Thermal value
1
2
X
Lower flammable limit
X X
Upper flammable limit
X X
Flammable range
X X
Inerting
X
Static electricity
X X
Flash point
X X
Auto-ignition
X X
Spread of fire:
By radiation
X X
By convection
X X
By conduction
X X
Reactivity
X X
Fire classifications and applicable extinguishing agents
X X
Main causes of fires:
Oil leakage
X X
Smoking
X X
Overheating pumps
X X
Galley appliances
X
Spontaneous ignition
X X
Hot work
X X
Electrical apparatus
X
Reaction, self-heating, and auto-ignition
X
Fire prevention:
General
X X
Fire hazards of DL and LG
X X
Fire detection:
Fire- and smoke-detection systems
X
Automatic fire alarms
X
Firefighting equipment:
Fire mains, hydrants
X
International shore-connection
X
Smothering-installations, carbon dioxide (CO2), foam * * *
X
Pressure-water spray system in special-category spaces
X
Automatic sprinkler system
X
Emergency fire pump, emergency generator
X
Chemical-powder applicants
X
Column 1—Tank Barge-PIC.
Column 2—Tank Vessel-PIC, Tank Vessel-Engineer, and Tank Vessel-Assistant.
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3) (enhanced display)
page 15 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3)
Firefighting course topics
1
2
General outline of required and mobile apparatus
X
Boiler Technician's outfit, personal equipment
X
Breathing apparatus
X
Resuscitation apparatus
X
Smoke helmet or mask
X
Fireproof life-line and harness
X
Fire hose, nozzles, connections, and fire axes
X
Fire blankets
X
Portable fire extinguishers
X X
Limitations of portable and semiportable extinguishers
X X
Emergency procedures:
Arrangements:
Escape routes
X X
Means of gas-freeing tanks
X X
Class A, B, and C divisions
X
Inert-gas system
X
Ship firefighting organization:
General alarms
X
Fire-control plans, muster stations, and duties
X
Communications
X
Periodic shipboard drills
X
Patrol system
X
Basic firefighting techniques:
Sounding alarm
X X
Locating and isolating fires
X X
Stopping leakage of cargo
X X
Jettisoning
X
Inhibiting
X
Cooling
X
Smothering
X
Sizing up situation
X
Locating information on cargo
X
Extinguishing
X X
Extinguishing with portable units
X X
Setting reflash watch
X X
Using additional personnel
X X
Firefighting extinguishing-agents:
Column 1—Tank Barge-PIC.
Column 2—Tank Vessel-PIC, Tank Vessel-Engineer, and Tank Vessel-Assistant.
46 CFR 13.121(e)(3) (enhanced display)
page 16 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.123
Firefighting course topics
1
2
Water (solid jet, spray, fog, and flooding)
X
Foam (high, medium and low expansion)
X
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
X X
Aqueous-film-forming foam (AFFF)
Dry chemicals
X
X X
Use of extinguisher on:
Flammable and combustible liquids
X X
Manifold-flange fire
X X
Drip-pan fire
X X
Pump fire
X X
Drills for typical fires on barges
X
Field exercises:
Extinguish small fires using portable extinguishers:
Electrical
X X
Manifold-flange
X X
Drip-pan
X X
Pump
X X
Use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
X
Extinguish extensive fires with water
X
Extinguish fires with foam, or chemical
X
Fight fire in smoke-filled enclosed space wearing SCBA
X
Extinguish fire with water fog in an enclosed space with heavy smoke
X
Extinguish oil fire with fog applicator and spray nozzles, dry-chemical, or foam applicators
X
Effect a rescue in a smoke-filled space while wearing breathing apparatus
X
Column 1—Tank Barge-PIC.
Column 2—Tank Vessel-PIC, Tank Vessel-Engineer, and Tank Vessel-Assistant.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77989, Dec. 24, 2013, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58279, Sept. 29, 2014]
§ 13.123 Recency of service or experience for original tank vessel endorsements.
An applicant for an original tank vessel endorsement in subpart B, C, D, or E of this part must have obtained at least
25 percent of the qualifying service and, if the endorsement requires transfers, at least two of the qualifying
transfers, within 5 years of the date of application.
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77994, Dec. 24, 2013]
§ 13.125 Physical and medical requirements.
Each applicant for an original tank vessel endorsement must meet the physical requirements of part 10, subpart C,
of this subchapter.
46 CFR 13.125 (enhanced display)
page 17 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.127
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by USCG-2006-24371, 74 FR 11259, Mar. 16, 2009; USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR
77994, Dec. 24, 2013]
§ 13.127 Service: General.
(a) A service letter must be signed by the owner, operator, Master, or Chief Engineer of the vessel and must
specify the following:
(1) The name of the vessel, official number for the vessel, and date of service for each vessel.
(2) For endorsements as Tank Vessel-PIC, Tank Barge-PIC, and Tank Vessel-Assistant, the classification
of cargo (DL, LG, or, for a restricted endorsement, a specific product) handled while the applicant
accumulated the service.
(3) The dates, the numbers and kinds of transfers the applicant has participated in, the ports or
terminals, if applicable, and the number of transfers that involved commencement or completion of
loading or discharge.
(4) For endorsements as Tank Vessel-PIC or Tank Barge-PIC, that the applicant has demonstrated to the
satisfaction of the signer that they are fully capable of supervising transfers of liquid cargo,
including—
(i)
Pre-transfer inspection;
(ii) Pre-transfer conference and execution of the Declaration of Inspection;
(iii) Connection of cargo hoses or loading-arms;
(iv) Line-up of the cargo system for loading and discharge;
(v) Start of liquid flow during loading;
(vi) Start of cargo pump and increase of pressure to normal discharge pressure;
(vii) Calculation of loading-rates;
(viii) Monitoring;
(ix) Topping-off of cargo tanks during loading;
(x) Stripping of cargo tanks;
(xi) Ballasting and deballasting, if appropriate;
(xii) Disconnection of the cargo hoses or loading-arms; and
(xiii) Securing of cargo systems.
(5) For endorsements as Tank Vessel-Engineer, that the applicant has demonstrated to the satisfaction
of the signer that they are fully capable of supervising transfers of fuel oil, including—
(i)
Pre-transfer inspection;
(ii) Pre-transfer conference and execution of the Declaration of Inspection;
(iii) Connection of hoses or loading-arms;
(iv) Line-up of the piping system for loading and transfer of fuel oil;
46 CFR 13.127(a)(5)(iv) (enhanced display)
page 18 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.127(a)(5)(v)
(v) Start of liquid flow during loading;
(vi) Calculation of loading rates;
(vii) Monitoring;
(viii) Topping-off of tanks during loading;
(ix) Disconnection of the hoses or loading arms; and
(x) Securing of fuel oil systems.
(b) In determining the numbers and kinds of transfers that the applicant has participated in under paragraph
(a)(3) of this section, the following rules apply:
(1) A transfer must involve the loading or discharge from at least one of the vessel's cargo tanks to or
from a shore facility or another vessel. A shift of cargo from one tank to another tank is not a
transfer for this purpose.
(2) Regardless of how long the transfer lasts beyond 4 hours, it counts as only one transfer.
(3) A transfer must include both a commencement and a completion.
(4) Regardless of how many tanks or products are being loaded or discharged at the same time, a
person may receive credit for only one transfer, one loading, and one discharge conducted during
each watch.
(5) Credit for a transfer during a watch of less than 4 hours accrues only if the watch includes either the
connection and the commencement of transfer or the completion of transfer and the disconnection.
(6) Credit for a commencement of loading accrues only if the applicant participates in the pre-transfer
inspection, the pre-transfer conference including execution of the Declaration of Inspection, the
connection of hoses or loading-arms, the line-up of the system for the loading, the start of liquid
flow, and the calculation of loading-rates, where applicable.
(7) Credit for a commencement of discharge accrues only if the applicant participates in the pre-transfer
inspection, the pre-transfer conference including execution of the Declaration of Inspection, the
connection of hoses or loading-arms, the line-up of the cargo system for the discharge, the start of
the pump or pumps and increase of pressure to normal pressure for discharge, and the monitoring
of discharge rates.
(8) Credit for a completion of transfer, whether loading or discharge, accrues only if the applicant
participates in the topping-off at the loading port, or in the stripping of cargo tanks and the
commencement of ballasting, if required by the vessel's transfer procedures, at the discharge port.
(9) Personnel desiring credit for transfers during off-duty hours may satisfy requirements of
competence through incremental training periods that include segments of transfers. The
cumulative number of transfers must equal the minimum specified in §§ 13.203(b) or 13.303(b) of
this subchapter.
(c) Service on Articulated Tug Barges (ATBs). Service on ATBs with an aggregate tonnage of 1,600 GRT or
more will be creditable on a case-by-case basis and with prior authorization by the Coast Guard, provided
the ATB equipment is comparable to tank vessel equipment. The Coast Guard may issue blanket
authorizations for classes of ATBs.
46 CFR 13.127(c) (enhanced display)
page 19 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.129
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by CGD 79-116, 62 FR 25133, May 8, 1997; USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77994,
Dec. 24, 2013]
§ 13.129 Quick-reference table for tank vessel endorsements.
Table 1 to § 13.129 provides a guide to the requirements for various tank vessel endorsements. Provisions in the
reference sections are controlling.
46 CFR 13.129 (enhanced display)
page 20 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.129
TABLE 1 TO § 13.129
Category
Minimum age
Physical required
Service
Recency of service Proof of service
Firefighting
Cargo
training
English
language
Tank Vessel-PIC Subpart B
18; 13.201(a)
Yes; Part 10, subpart C 13.203
13.123
13.205
13.201(c)(3) 13.201(c)(4) 13.201(d).
Tank Barge-PIC Subpart C
18; 13.301(a)
Yes; Part 10, subpart C 13.303
13.123
13.305
13.301(c)(3) 13.301(c)(4) 13.301(d).
Tank Vessel-Assistant Subpart D
18; 13.401(a)
Yes; Part 10, subpart C 13.401(e)(2) 13.123
13.405
13.401(d)
Tank Vessel-Engineer Subpart E
18; 13.501(a)
Yes; Part 10, subpart C 13.503
13.123
13.505
13.501(c)(3) 13.501(c)(4) 13.501(d).
Restricted Tank Vessel-PIC
18; 13.111(b)
Yes; Part 10, subpart C 13.111(b)
13.111(b)
13.111(b)
13.111(b)
No
13.111(b).
Restricted Tank Barge-PIC
18; 13.111(c)
Yes; Part 10, subpart C 13.111(c)
13.111(c)
13.111(c)
13.111(c)
No
13.111(c).
13.111(d)(4)
No
No
13.111(d)(5).
Restricted Tank Barge-PIC, Facility 18; 13.111(d)(1) Yes; Part 10, subpart C 13.111(d)(4) No
46 CFR 13.129 (enhanced display)
13.401(e)(1) 13.401(f).
page 21 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.201
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77995, Dec. 24, 2013]
Subpart B—Requirements for Tank Vessel-PIC Endorsement
§ 13.201 Original application for Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement.
Each applicant for an original Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement must—
(a) Be at least 18 years old;
(b) Apply on a form provided by the Coast Guard;
(c) Provide evidence of—
(1) Passing a physical and medical examination in accordance with § 13.125;
(2) Service on tankships in accordance with § 13.203;
(3) Completion of an approved firefighting course that provides training in the subjects listed in table 3
to § 13.121(e) completed within 5 years of the date of application for the endorsement, unless they
have previously submitted such a certificate for tank vessel endorsement or officer endorsement on
an MMC; and
(4) Completion of an approved course for Tankship: Dangerous Liquids or Tankship: Liquefied Gases
appropriate to the endorsement applied for within the previous 5 years. A course certificate used for
original issuance or renewal of an endorsement cannot be used for a subsequent renewal of the
same endorsement; and
(d) Be capable of speaking and understanding, in English, all instructions needed to commence, conduct, and
complete a transfer of cargo, and be capable of reading and understanding the English language found in
the Declaration of Inspection, vessel response plans, and Material Safety Data Sheet.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77995, Dec. 24, 2013, as amended by USCG-2021-0348, 87 FR 3223, Jan. 21, 2022; USCG-2021-0834, 89
FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
§ 13.203 Service requirements.
Each applicant for a Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement for DL or LG must meet the requirements of either paragraphs
(a) and (b) or paragraph (c) of this section.
(a) Each applicant must provide evidence of—
(1) At least 90 days of service as a deck officer or an engineering officer on one or more tankships or
self-propelled tank vessels certified to carry DL or LG appropriate to the endorsement applied for;
(2) At least 90 days of rating or cadet service on deck or in the engine department on one or more
tankships or self-propelled tank vessels certified to carry DL or LG appropriate to the endorsement
applied for; or
(3) A combination of the service in paragraphs (a) (1) and (2) of this section.
46 CFR 13.203(a)(3) (enhanced display)
page 22 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.203(b)
(b) Each applicant must provide evidence of participation, under the supervision of a Tank Vessel-PIC, in at
least 10 transfers of liquid cargo in bulk of the classification desired on tankships or self-propelled tank
vessels, including at least—
(1) Five loadings and five discharges;
(2) Two commencements of loading and two completions of loading; and
(3) Two commencements of discharge and two completions of discharge.
(c) Each applicant already holding an MMC endorsed as Tank Vessel-PIC for DL and seeking an endorsement
for LG, or the converse, must—
(1) Provide evidence of at least half the service required by paragraph (a) of this section; and
(2) Comply with paragraph (b) of this section, except that they need provide evidence of only three
loadings and three discharges along with evidence of compliance with paragraphs (b)(2) and (3) of
this section.
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by CGD 79-116, 62 FR 25134, May 8, 1997; USCG-2006-24371, 74 FR 11259,
Mar. 16, 2009; USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77995, Dec. 24, 2013; USCG-2021-0834, 89 FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
§ 13.205 Proof of service for Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement.
Provide evidence in a method prescribed by the Coast Guard of proof of service from the owner, operator, or Master
of the vessel on which the applicant obtained the service. The evidence must contain the information described in §
13.127(a).
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77995, Dec. 24, 2013; USCG-2021-0834, 89 FR
102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
Subpart C—Requirements for Tank Barge-PIC Endorsement
§ 13.301 Original application for Tank Barge-PIC endorsement.
Each applicant for a Tank Barge-PIC endorsement must—
(a) Be at least 18 years old;
(b) Apply on a form provided by the Coast Guard;
(c) Provide evidence of—
(1) Passing a physical and medical examination according to § 13.125;
(2) Service on tank vessels in accordance with § 13.303;
(3) Completion of an approved Tank Barge: Firefighting course providing training in the subjects
identified in table 3 to § 13.121(e) completed within 5 years of the date of application for the
endorsement, unless they have previously submitted such a certificate for a tank vessel
endorsement or officer endorsement on an MMC; and
46 CFR 13.301(c)(3) (enhanced display)
page 23 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.301(c)(4)
(4) Completion of an approved Tank Barge: Dangerous Liquids or Tank Barge: Liquefied Gases course
appropriate for the endorsement applied for within the previous 5 years. A course certificate used for
original issuance or renewal of an endorsement cannot be used for a subsequent renewal of the
same endorsement; and
(d) Be capable of speaking, and understanding, in English, all instructions needed to commence, conduct, and
complete a transfer of cargo, and be capable of reading and understanding the English language found in
the Declaration of Inspection, vessel response plans, and Material Safety Data Sheet.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77995, Dec. 24, 2013, as amended by USCG-2021-0348, 87 FR 3223, Jan. 21, 2022; USCG-2021-0834, 89
FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
§ 13.303 Service requirements.
Each applicant for a Tank Barge-PIC endorsement for DL or LG must meet the requirements of either paragraphs (a)
and (b) or paragraph (c) of this section.
(a) Each applicant must provide evidence of—
(1) At least 60 days of service, whether by shore-based or by vessel-based personnel, on one or more
tank vessels certified to carry DL or LG appropriate to the endorsement applied for; or
(2) At least 6 months of closely related service directly involved with tank barges appropriate to the
endorsement applied for; and
(b) Participation, under the supervision of a Tank Vessel-PIC or Tank Barge-PIC, in at least 10 transfers of
liquid cargo in bulk of the classification desired on any tank vessel, including at least—
(1) Five loadings and five discharges;
(2) Two commencements of loading and two completions of loading; and
(3) Two commencements of discharge and two completions of discharge.
(c) Each applicant already holding an MMC endorsed as Tank Barge-PIC for DL and seeking an endorsement
for LG, or the converse, must—
(1) Provide evidence of at least half the service required by paragraph (a) of this section; and
(2) Comply with paragraph (b) of this section, except that they need provide evidence of only three
loadings and three discharges along with evidence of compliance with paragraphs (b)(2) and (3) of
this section.
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by CGD 79-116, 62 FR 25134, May 8, 1997; USCG-2006-24371, 74 FR 11260,
Mar. 16, 2009; USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77996, Dec. 24, 2013; USCG-2021-0834, 89 FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
§ 13.305 Proof of service for Tank Barge-PIC.
Provide evidence in a method prescribed by the Coast Guard of proof of service from the owner or operator of a
terminal; the owner or operator of a tank barge; the owner, operator, or Master of a tank vessel; or the employer of
shore-based PICs. The evidence must contain the information required by § 13.127(a), excluding paragraph
(a)(4)(vii).
46 CFR 13.305 (enhanced display)
page 24 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.401
[CGD 79-116, 62 FR 25134, May 8, 1997, as amended by USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77996, Dec. 24, 2013; USCG-2021-0834, 89 FR
102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
Subpart D—Requirements for Tank Vessel-Assistant Endorsement
§ 13.401 Original application for Tank Vessel-Assistant endorsement.
Each applicant for a Tank Vessel-Assistant endorsement must—
(a) Be at least 18 years old;
(b) Apply on a form provided by the Coast Guard;
(c) Provide evidence of passing a physical and medical examination according to § 13.125;
(d) Provide evidence of completion of an approved firefighting course providing training in the subjects
identified in table 3 to § 13.121(e) completed within 5 years of the date of application for the
endorsement, unless they have previously submitted such a certificate for a tank vessel endorsement or
officer endorsement on an MMC;
(e) Provide evidence of either—
(1) Completion of an approved Tankship Familiarization course providing training in the subjects
identified in table 1 to § 13.121(e) within the previous 5 years. A course certificate used for original
issuance or renewal of an endorsement cannot be used for a subsequent renewal of the same
endorsement; or
(2) At least 90 days of deck service on tankships or self-propelled tank vessels certified to carry DL or
LG appropriate to the endorsement applied for and successfully complete a professional
examination for the topics identified in table 1 to § 13.121(e); and
(f) Be capable of speaking and understanding, in English, all instructions needed to commence, conduct, and
complete a transfer of cargo.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77996, Dec. 24, 2013, as amended by USCG-2021-0348, 87 FR 3223, Jan. 21, 2022; USCG-2021-0834, 89
FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
§ 13.403 Service requirements.
(a) Each applicant already holding an MMC endorsed as Tank Vessel-Assistant for DL and seeking one for LG,
or the converse, must—
(1) Provide evidence of at least half the service required in § 13.401(e)(2) and successfully complete a
professional examination for the topics identified in table 1 to § 13.121(e) appropriate to the
endorsement applied for; or
(2) Complete a course in DL or LG appropriate to the endorsement applied for as prescribed in §
13.401(e)(1).
(b) [Reserved]
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77996, Dec. 24, 2013]
46 CFR 13.403(b) (enhanced display)
page 25 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.405
§ 13.405 Proof of service for Tank Vessel-Assistant endorsement.
Service must be proved by either—
(a) Evidence in a method prescribed by the Coast Guard from the owner, operator, or Master of a tankship or
self-propelled tank vessel. The evidence must specify—
(1) The name of the vessel(s), the applicable dates, and the port(s) or terminal(s);
(2) The classification of cargo (DL or LG) carried while the applicant accumulated the service;
(3) The number of days of deck service the applicant accumulated on the tankship or self-propelled tank
vessel; and
(4) That the applicant has demonstrated an understanding of cargo transfer and a sense of
responsibility that, in the opinion of the signer, will allow the applicant to safely carry out duties
respecting cargo transfer and transfer equipment assigned by the PIC of the transfer without direct
supervision by the PIC; or
(b) Certificates of Discharge from tankships with the appropriate classification of cargo (DL, LG, or both); and
a letter on company letterhead from the owner, operator, or Master of one of the tankships or selfpropelled tank vessels stating that they have demonstrated—
(1) An understanding of cargo transfers; and
(2) A sense of responsibility that, in the opinion of the signer, will allow them to safely carry out duties
respecting cargo and its equipment assigned by the PIC of the transfer without direct supervision by
the PIC.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77996, Dec. 24, 2013, as amended by USCG-2021-0834, 89 FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
Subpart E—Requirements for Tank Vessel-Engineer Endorsement
§ 13.501 Original application for Tank Vessel-Engineer endorsement.
Each applicant for a Tank Vessel-Engineer endorsement must—
(a) Be at least 18 years old;
(b) Apply on a form provided by the Coast Guard;
(c) Provide evidence of—
(1) Passing a physical and medical examination according to § 13.125;
(2) Service on tankships and self-propelled tank vessels in accordance with § 13.503;
(3) Completion of an approved firefighting course providing training in the subjects identified in table 3
to § 13.121(e) completed within 5 years of the date of application for the endorsement, unless they
have previously submitted such a certificate for a tank vessel endorsement or officer endorsement
on an MMC; and
46 CFR 13.501(c)(3) (enhanced display)
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46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.501(c)(4)
(4) Completion of an approved Tankship course in dangerous liquids or liquefied gases, appropriate for
the endorsement applied for within the previous 5 years. A course certificate used for original
issuance or renewal of an endorsement cannot be used for a subsequent renewal of the same
endorsement; and
(d) Be capable of speaking and understanding, in English, all instructions needed to commence, conduct, and
complete a transfer of cargo or fuel.
[USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77996, Dec. 24, 2013, as amended by USCG-2021-0348, 87 FR 3223, Jan. 21, 2022; USCG-2021-0834, 89
FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
§ 13.503 Service requirements.
(a) Each applicant for a Tank Vessel-Engineer endorsement must provide evidence of at least—
(1) 90 days of service as an engineering officer on tankships or self-propelled tank vessels certified to
carry DL or LG appropriate to the endorsement applied for;
(2) 90 days of rating or cadet service in the engine department on tankships or self-propelled tank
vessels certified to carry DL or LG appropriate to the endorsement applied for; or
(3) A combination of the service in paragraphs (a) (1) and (2) of this section.
(b) Each applicant already holding an MMC endorsed as Tank Vessel-Engineer for DL and seeking an
endorsement for LG, or the converse, must prove at least half the service required by paragraph (a) of this
section.
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by CGD 79-116, 62 FR 25134, May 8, 1997; USCG-2006-24371, 74 FR 11260,
Mar. 16, 2009; USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77997, Dec. 24, 2013; USCG-2021-0834, 89 FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
§ 13.505 Proof of service for Tank Vessel-Engineer endorsement.
(a) Provide evidence in a method prescribed by the Coast Guard of proof of service from the owner, operator,
Master, or Chief Engineer of a tankship or self-propelled tank vessel. The evidence must specify—
(1) The classification of cargo (DL, LG, or both) carried while the applicant accumulated the service; and
(2) The number of days of officer, rating, and cadet service in the engine department on tankships or
self-propelled tank vessels; or
(b) Service must be proved by certificates of discharge from tankships or self-propelled tank vessels with the
appropriate classification of cargo (DL, LG, or both).
[CGD 79-116, 60 FR 17142, Apr. 4, 1995, as amended by CGD 79-116, 62 FR 25135, May 8, 1997; USCG-2006-24371, 74 FR 11260,
Mar. 16, 2009; USCG-2021-0834, 89 FR 102337, Dec. 17, 2024]
Subpart F—Requirements for STCW Tank Vessel Endorsements
Source: USCG-2004-17914, 78 FR 77997, Dec. 24, 2013, unless otherwise noted.
46 CFR 13.505(b) (enhanced display)
page 27 of 31
46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.601
§ 13.601 General.
(a) When all tank vessel endorsements are issued, renewed, or otherwise modified, the Coast Guard will
determine, upon request, whether the applicant meets the requirements for an STCW tank vessel
endorsement for service on seagoing vessels. If the applicant is qualified, the Coast Guard will issue the
appropriate endorsement. An applicant for any STCW endorsement must hold the appropriate national
endorsement unless otherwise specified.
(b) Applicants for an STCW tank vessel endorsement must—
(1) Meet the training and service requirements for the endorsement sought; and
(2) Meet the appropriate standard of competence identified in the STCW Code (incorporated by
reference, see § 13.103).
(c) The Coast Guard will accept the following as proof of meeting the standards of competence:
(1) In-service experience: Documentation of successful completion of assessments, approved or
accepted by the Coast Guard, and signed by a qualified assessor, deck or engineering, as
appropriate.
(2) Training ship experience: Documentation of successful completion of an approved training program
involving formal training and assessment onboard a school ship.
(3) Simulator training: Documentation of successful completion of training and assessment from a
Coast Guard-approved course involving maritime simulation.
(4) Training program: Documentation of successful completion of an approved training program
involving formal training and assessments.
(d) The Coast Guard will publish guidelines that should be used to document successful demonstrations of
competence. Organizations may develop alternative assessment documentation for demonstrations of
competence; however, such documentation must be approved by the Coast Guard prior to its use and
submittal with an application.
§ 13.603 Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo
Operations.
(a) Every applicant for an endorsement in Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations must—
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Vessel-PIC Dangerous Liquids (DL);
(2) Meet the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-1-2 of the STCW Code (incorporated by
reference, see § 13.103); and
(3) Provide evidence of 90 days of sea service onboard oil tankers. The Coast Guard will accept service
submitted to qualify for a national endorsement as required in § 13.203, provided that the service
was on oil tankers.
(b) Applicants may qualify for an endorsement in Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations with a limitation to
non-self-propelled vessels. To qualify for this endorsement, an applicant must—
(1) Hold a national endorsement as Tank Barge-PIC DL;
(2) Provide evidence of meeting the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-1-2 of the STCW
Code; and
46 CFR 13.603(b)(2) (enhanced display)
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46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.603(b)(3)
(3) Provide evidence of at least 90 days of service, whether shore-based or vessel-based, on one or
more oil tankers. The Coast Guard will accept service submitted to qualify for a national
endorsement required in § 13.303, provided that the service was on oil tankers.
(c) Applicants may qualify for an endorsement in Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations with a limitation to
maintenance and repair of cargo equipment. To qualify for this endorsement, an applicant must—
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Vessel-Engineer;
(2) Provide evidence of meeting the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-1-2 of the STCW
Code applicable to maintenance and repair of cargo equipment; and
(3) Provide evidence of—
(i)
At least 90 days of service as an engineering officer on oil tankers;
(ii) At least 90 days of rating or cadet service on deck or in the engine department on oil tankers; or
(iii) A combination of the service in paragraphs (c)(3)(i) and (c)(3)(ii) of this section.
(d) Applicants holding an endorsement in Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations or Advanced
Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations may qualify for an endorsement in Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo
Operations by completing, in a supernumerary capacity, an approved training program onboard oil
tankers. The program must be at least 1 month and include at least three loading and three discharge
operations.
§ 13.605 Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Advanced Chemical Tanker
Cargo Operations.
(a) Every applicant for an endorsement in Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations must:
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Vessel-PIC DL;
(2) Meet the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-1-3 of the STCW Code (incorporated by
reference, see § 13.103); and
(3) Provide evidence of 90 days of sea service onboard chemical tankers. The Coast Guard will accept
service submitted to qualify for a national endorsement as required in § 13.203, provided that the
service was on chemical tankers.
(b) Applicants may qualify for an endorsement in Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations with a
limitation to non-self-propelled vessels. To qualify for this endorsement, an applicant must:
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Barge-PIC DL;
(2) Provide evidence of meeting the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-1-3 of the STCW
Code; and
(3) Provide evidence of at least 90 days of service, whether shore-based or vessel-based, on chemical
tankers. The Coast Guard will accept service submitted to qualify for a national endorsement as
required in § 13.303, provided that the service was on chemical tankers.
(c) Applicants may qualify for an endorsement in Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations with a
limitation to maintenance and repair of cargo equipment. To qualify for this endorsement, an applicant
must:
46 CFR 13.605(c) (enhanced display)
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46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.605(c)(1)
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Vessel-Engineer;
(2) Provide evidence of meeting the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-1-3 of the STCW
Code applicable to maintenance and repair of cargo equipment; and
(3) Provide evidence of—
(i)
At least 90 days of service as an engineering officer on chemical tankers;
(ii) At least 90 days of rating or cadet service on deck or in the engine department on chemical
tankers; or
(iii) A combination of the service in paragraphs (c)(3)(i) and (c)(3)(ii) of this section.
(d) Applicants holding an endorsement in Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations or Advanced Liquefied Gas
Tanker Cargo Operations may qualify for an endorsement in Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations
by completing, in a supernumerary capacity, an approved training program onboard chemical tankers. The
program must be at least 1 month and include at least three loading and three discharge operations.
§ 13.607 Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Advanced Liquefied Gas Tanker
Cargo Operations.
(a) Every applicant for an endorsement in Advanced Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations must:
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Vessel-PIC LG;
(2) Meet the standards of competence identified in Tables A-V/1-2-2 of the STCW Code (incorporated by
reference, see § 13.103); and
(3) Provide evidence of 90 days of service on liquefied gas tankers. The Coast Guard will accept service
submitted to qualify for a national endorsement as required in § 13.203, provided that the service
was on liquefied gas tankers.
(b) Applicants may qualify for an endorsement in Advanced Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations with a
limitation to non-self-propelled vessels. To qualify for this endorsement, an applicant must:
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Barge-PIC LG;
(2) Provide evidence of meeting the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-2-2 of the STCW
Code; and
(3) Provide evidence of at least 90 days of service, whether shore-based or vessel-based, on liquefied
gas tankers. The Coast Guard will accept service submitted to qualify for a national endorsement as
required in § 13.303, provided that the service was on liquefied gas tankers.
(c) Applicants may qualify for an endorsement in Advanced Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations with a
limitation to maintenance and repair of cargo equipment. To qualify for this endorsement, an applicant
must:
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Vessel-Engineer;
(2) Provide evidence of meeting the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-2-2 of the STCW
Code applicable to maintenance and repair of cargo equipment; and
(3) Provide evidence of—
(i)
At least 90 days of service as an engineering officer on liquefied gas tankers;
46 CFR 13.607(c)(3)(i) (enhanced display)
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46 CFR Part 13 (up to date as of 6/02/2025)
Certification of Tank Vessel Personnel
46 CFR 13.607(c)(3)(ii)
(ii) At least 90 days of rating or cadet service on deck or in the engine department on liquefied gas
tankers; or
(iii) A combination of the service in paragraphs (c)(3)(i) and (c)(3)(ii) of this section.
(d) Applicants holding an endorsement in Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations or Advanced Chemical
Tanker Cargo Operations may qualify for an endorsement in Advanced Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo
Operations by completing, in a supernumerary capacity, an approved training program onboard liquefied
gas tankers. The program must be at least 1 month and include at least three loading and three discharge
operations.
§ 13.609 Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker
Cargo Operations.
(a) Every applicant for an endorsement in Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker Operations must:
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Vessel-Assistant DL; and
(2) Provide evidence of meeting the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-1-1 of the STCW
Code (incorporated by reference, see § 13.103).
(b) [Reserved]
§ 13.611 Requirements to qualify for an STCW endorsement for Basic Liquefied Gas Tanker
Cargo Operations.
(a) Every applicant for an endorsement in Basic Liquefied Gas Tanker Operations must:
(1) Qualify for a national endorsement as Tank Vessel-Assistant LG; and
(2) Provide evidence of meeting the standards of competence identified in Table A-V/1-2-1 of the STCW
Code (incorporated by reference, see § 13.103).
(b) [Reserved]
46 CFR 13.611(b) (enhanced display)
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| File Modified | 0000-00-00 |
| File Created | 0000-00-00 |