Tag: USCG License

NMC is returning to work (or Lapse in Appropriations Update #3)

Posted on by LAPWARE Admin

It appears that the NMC has returned to work despite the ongoing DHS shutdown. What that means:

  • NMC is evaluating applications on a first come, first serve basis using the Application Submission Portal (ASAP).
  • The REC will contact mariners with appointments between Feb 17 and April 18 to reschedule their exams.
  • Approval to Test Letters that expire between Feb and May 2026 are extended through Aug 2026 — with no updates showing extensions.
  • In-process examinations: If you didn’t complete all modules, you may restart testing without penalty, but it must be completed within 60 days of the NMC’s reopening.
  • Retesting: The 90-day period was paused as of Feb 13th but will restart on reopening.
  • National Defense credentialing issues: Employers should reach out to the NMC Customer Service Center.

You can find the NMC’s Announcement here:

Resumption of Services at Regional Examination Centers

Posted on by LAPWARE Admin

Funding for the Federal Government has been restored, and the National Maritime Center

(NMC) and Regional Examination Centers (RECs) are in the process of resuming services to

mariners. Full resumption of services at the RECs will be phased in to allow prioritization of

our most critical services and to accommodate mariners most impacted by the furlough.

E-mail submission of applications and supporting documentation remains active. Walk-in and

scheduled counter service at the RECs will remain suspended through November 21, 2025, to

allow REC employees to prioritize the backlog in screening applications and scheduling

mariner examinations.

To prioritize mariners whose examinations were canceled during the furlough, the RECs will

focus on rescheduling these examinations during the first 5 business days. The earliest

available date for these mariners to start testing at most RECs will be November 18, 2025.

Mariners whose examinations were canceled during the furlough will be contacted by the REC

to re-schedule new examination dates.

Starting November 24, 2025, RECs are expected to return to routine operations, including

availability to schedule exams for all mariners. Because of existing staffing shortages, some

RECs may continue to have limited services.

For updates on NMC and REC operating statuses, please monitor the NMC website. For

questions, contact our Customer Service Center via the NMC online chat system, by e-mailing

, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662).