What are the minimum requirements to obtain a Captains License?
A. To obtain a basic license, one must have certain level of boating experience (see list below) and take a written exam. Boating Experience for Inland Lakes, Bays & Sounds * 360 days total boating experience on any type and size of powerboat * 90 of those days must be in the last 3 years. * U.S. Citizenship is not required. * Minimum age is 18. Boating Experience for offshore operations * 360 days total boating experience on any type and size of powerboat * 90 of those days must be in the last 3 years. * 90 days, in any time frame, must be in Near Coastal waters (offshore). * U.S. Citizenship is not required. * Minimum age is 18. My comment; The above “minimum requirements” are what is required to make an application for a Captains license. To actually get a Captains license is much more involved and there are different levels of licenses that depend on the type of marine operation the captain will be operating. I have provided a link to the Coast Guard licensing site on this page but
