How to Upgrade from OUPV to Master 100 GT: Requirements and Timeline

OUPV vs Master 100 GT: What Actually Changes

Sea Service Requirements

Under 46 CFR 11.421, Master 100 GT Near Coastal requires 360 days of sea service on vessels under 100 GT. At least 90 of those days must be on near coastal or ocean waters. This is identical to the OUPV requirement.

If you already hold an OUPV and want to upgrade to Master 100 GT, the NMC will credit the sea service from your OUPV application. You need to demonstrate that you have accumulated sea service in the capacity required for the Master endorsement — typically as master or mate, or licensed officer. If your OUPV service was documented as "operator," it generally counts.

Exam Differences: What Extra Modules Does Master Require

Master 100 GT requires all the same modules as OUPV plus:

• Stability — basic vessel stability calculations, free surface effect, loading, stability curves
• Deck Safety — additional safety requirements for inspected vessels, lifeboat equipment, fire detection systems
• Cargo and Freight — basic cargo handling, stowage (even if you never carry cargo, it is on the test)

If you already hold an OUPV and passed those modules, you only need to pass the additional modules for the upgrade. Check with your REC — the exact modules required depend on whether you are applying fresh or upgrading an existing credential.

Upgrading from an Existing OUPV

Step 1: Verify your sea service is sufficient

Your existing sea service from the OUPV application counts. If you have been operating commercially since getting your OUPV, add those days to your total. The NMC will review what is on file from your original application plus any new letters you submit.

Step 2: Pass the additional exam modules

Schedule at the REC and pass the modules you did not already take for OUPV — at minimum Stability and any additional Deck Safety modules. Bring your current MMC when you test.

Step 3: Complete a new CG-719B packet

An upgrade is treated as a new application. You need a current physical (CG-719K, within 12 months), a fresh drug test (CG-719P, within 185 days of NMC receipt), and a valid TWIC. Sea service letters only need to cover any new service since your OUPV application — you do not re-submit letters the NMC already has on file, though some applicants include them anyway for completeness.

What Comes After Master 100 GT

Master 100 GT is the first rung on the inspected-vessel ladder. The next step is Master 200 GT (500 days + additional exam) or Master 500 GT (720 days on vessels 100–500 GT, with additional near coastal service). Master 500 GT Near Coastal is where most commercial charter and support vessel operators end up.

The sea service you accumulate on a 100 GT vessel counts toward Master 200 and Master 500 upgrade applications. Every underway day you log now is building toward the next level.