How do I get a captains license in California?

Question

What are the requirements for obtaining a 6 person passenger vessel license? How long does it take?

Answer 1

To get the OUPV, sometimes called the six pack, you need to pass the U.S. coast guard exam.  It's pretty tough.  Many people take a prep course first.   The exam covers every thing from complex navigation problems to being able to identify bizzare ships such as a mine sweeper by the kinds of lights they have.    You also need 360 days of documented experience.  Contact the cost guard to get the proper forms to start documenting your sea time.

Answer 2

You can attend an USCG approved course for license training.    

The USCG accepts passing the course instead of testing at the Exam Center.  

Here is just one link:

http://www.californiasailingacademy.com/...

There are many other schools offering the training in California.    

The requirements are 360 days of seatime, 90 days in the last 3 years.  

USCG Web Site: http://www.uscg.mil/stcw/index.htm

Answer 3

Check with the Coast Guard

Answer 4

good question