Merchant Mariner Medical Exam for a USCG Medical Certificate 719K 719KE
Mariners are required to have a valid medical certificate (Application for USCG Medical Certificate Form CG-719K) when sailing under the authority of their Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Furthermore, all mariners working on vessels that comply with the STCW and MLC conventions, including entry-level, food handlers, and staff personnel, must also maintain a medical certificate.
What is a USCG Mariner Medical Certificate?
A Merchant Mariner Medical Certificate is a document that acknowledges that the seafarer meets required medical and physical standards and can perform essential and emergency duties onboard safely and effectively. The medical certificate should genuinely reflect seafarer’s’ health status, in light of the duties they are expected to perform.
To qualify for the medical certificate, a mariner must meet the medical and physical standards and complete the Merchant Mariner Physical Examination.
What is a Merchant Mariner Physical Examination?
Merchant Mariner Physical Examination (Form CG-719K or Form CG-719 K/E) is a medical exam performed by a U.S. licensed medical doctor, U.S. licensed physician assistant, or U.S. licensed nurse practitioner. The exam will check whether an applicant meets the medical and physical requirements for merchant mariners medical certification.
What to Expect from the Merchant Mariner Physical Examination?
The medical exam will cover a comprehensive review of your health.
It is painless and non-invasive and will be conducted by a U.S licensed doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. The exam would typically take 30-45 minutes and might consist of the following:
- Review and verification of medical conditions and medical history
- Assessment of risk factors for disease
- Assessment and evaluation of medications
- Review of a previously reported Medical Waiver
- Review of an Additional Information Letter form USCG
- A medical exam that includes:
- Measurement of height and weight
- Blood Pressure and Pulse check
- A standard eye test
- A hearing test
- Color vision test
To obtain your medical certificate, you must fill out the appropriate application form provided by the US Coast Guard and bring it with you to your physical exam appointment.
Steps to get your US Coast Guard Mariner Certificate Exam:
- Submit the online form below to book your appointment
- Fill out all required applicant sections in Form CG-719K or CG-719K/E (a link to fillable form will be emailed to you after appointment is booked)
- Medical provider reviews your information
- Attend your scheduled appointment
- Completed Application for a Medical Certificate is emailed to you in .pdf format
Applications for Medical Certificate can be found here:
→ The Application for Mariner Medical Certificate (Form CG-719K).
This form is required for Officers and Mariners with a qualified rating.
→ The Application for Merchant Mariner Medical Certificate for Entry Level Ratings (Form CG-719K/E). This form is required for entry level mariners.
What you need to know:
Applicants are required to complete all 10 pages, including the instructions.
Incomplete application forms often result in delays in approval of the medical certificate by the USCG. Please review common errors that might cause a delay in the medical certificate.
Medical certificate applications must be submitted at least 60 days before your Medical Certificate expires.