TWIC Card for Mariners: How to Apply, What It Costs, and What Happens If It Expires

What Is a TWIC Card

The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is a biometric smart card issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It proves that the holder has passed a federal security threat assessment — essentially a background check by TSA.

For USCG-licensed mariners, TWIC is required to: apply for an original MMC, renew an MMC, and add endorsements. Unescorted access to secure areas of vessels and marine terminals also requires TWIC. In practical terms, you cannot get or keep your credential without one.

TWIC is administered by TSA but it is a separate card from your MMC. They expire on different cycles (TWIC is 5 years, MMC is 5 years but starting from a different date) and must be renewed independently.

How to Apply for a TWIC

Step 1: Pre-enroll online

Start at DHS Universal Enrollment Services. Pre-enrollment allows you to fill out the application form ahead of your in-person appointment, saving time at the enrollment center.

Step 2: Schedule an in-person appointment

You must appear in person at a TWIC enrollment center for biometrics — fingerprints, photo, and signature. Find your nearest enrollment center through the TSA TWIC locator. Major ports (Houston, Seattle, Baltimore, LA/Long Beach, Jacksonville, Tampa, Honolulu) all have enrollment centers. Inland mariners may need to travel to the nearest coastal facility.

Wait times at enrollment centers vary. Booking an appointment in advance is strongly recommended. Walk-in appointments are accepted at most locations but may involve a long wait.

Step 3: Bring required documents

Identity and citizenship documentation. Acceptable combinations include:

• US passport (unexpired) — satisfies both identity and citizenship alone
• US passport card + driver's license or state ID
• Birth certificate + driver's license or state ID
• Naturalization certificate + driver's license or state ID (for naturalized citizens)

The TSA TWIC website has the complete list of acceptable document combinations. Bring originals — copies are not accepted for biometric enrollment.

Step 4: Pay the fee

As of 2026, the TWIC fee is $125.25 for a 5-year card. A reduced fee of $93.50is available if you have a current HazMat endorsement on your commercial driver's license (CDL). Payment is by credit/debit card at the enrollment center.

Step 5: Receive your card

After enrollment, your application goes through TSA's security threat assessment. This typically takes 7–10 business days for most applicants. Your card is mailed to you. Expedited processing is available for an additional $60 and reduces processing to 24–48 hours (does not include mail time).

TWIC Renewal

TWIC cards are valid for 5 years. You can renew online or in person. Online renewal is available if you have a current, unexpired TWIC and your personal information has not changed significantly. In-person renewal is required for any name change or if you have a disqualifying event that requires adjudication.

The renewal fee as of 2026 is the same as the initial fee: $125.25. Renewal processing times are typically shorter than initial applications — often 5–7 business days.

If Your TWIC Expires Before Your MMC

If your TWIC expires and you have not renewed it, you cannot submit an MMC renewal until you have a new valid TWIC. You also cannot access secure areas of vessels and terminals with an expired TWIC.

Unescorted access: some mariners who work exclusively in non-TWIC areas (certain inland waterways, recreational vessels) find they need a TWIC only for the MMC application. In this case, timing the TWIC renewal to just before the MMC application is a valid strategy.

Disqualifying Offenses

TSA's threat assessment reviews criminal history. Permanent disqualifying offenses include espionage, sedition, and terrorism-related convictions. Interim disqualifying offenses (which may allow for a waiver process) include felony convictions within the past 7 years and multiple DUI convictions.

If you receive a preliminary determination of ineligibility, you have the right to appeal through TSA's waiver process. A maritime attorney who handles TWIC appeals can guide this process.

TWIC Application Checklist