Truth in Advertising
The REAL difference between the
OUPV and Masters License!
Don’t be scammed by those training schools and instructors who advertise that you MUST get the OUPV or 6-pak license BEFORE you can get the Masters license. That may be the
way their programs have been set up to work, but it is NOT the way the United States Coast Guard sees it.
In accordance with 46 CFR Subchapter B licensing regulations, the SAME 360 days of sea service experience qualifies you for EITHER the OUPV or Masters License with an inland endorsement. You do NOT have to hold the OUPV license before you can get a Masters License.
The requirements do change when you want to acquire a near coastal endorsement, but not for the inland endorsement.
Unfortunately, many training schools and instructors have led many people to believe that you must get an OUPV before you can get a Masters License.
This is simply NOT true! Don’t let them tell you otherwise!