License To Work On A Yacht – Do I Need?

Do I need a license (or certificate) to work on a yacht? The answer is;  it depends on your position aboard the yacht, the size of the yacht, the registry of the vessel, and where and how, it operates. The vessel’s location and use (charter or commercial) may also influence requirements. To be clear, there is a distinction between licensing (certifications) and training. Working on yachts requires training and the degree to which you have been trained, or licensed / certified, will influence how, what, and where you may work.

In the United States, vessel size alone does not determine whether you need a license / certification. The vessel’s purpose and use matters more than length — especially in the U.S. U.K. flagged vessels and other international registries can have have stricter certification / licensing requirements and where, vessel size and tonnage is a consideration.

Non-U.S. Flagged Vessels (Subject to Country)

Licenses and / or Certificates, Subject to Position are Required (starting at the Basic STCW Certification)

• Many countries require a license at 24m (≈78 ft) or above
• You are paid
• The vessel is chartered
• The vessel carries passengers for hire
• The vessel operates as a commercial vessel

United States (USCG Rules)

No Licenses are Required if ALL are True

• Vessel is for private use only (not for hire)
• There are no paying passengers
• Applicable to any size boat (yes — even very large private yachts)

A License / Certifications Are Required if ANY of the Following are True

• You are paid to operate the vessel
• The vessel is chartered
• The vessel carries passengers for hire
• The vessel operates as a commercial vessel
• If the vessel may stipulate such requirements

Employment and a Career in Yachting – Choices

If you are considering a career in yachting, give thought to employment options and interests looking into the future.

Even if you live in Hoboken, New Jersey and want to work on a yacht that docks in the general area, but that yacht is British registered (or such), you, as captain or crew, need to comply with the requirements of that registry – which means formal training and certifications applicable to the position. If you live in Hoboken and want to run or work on a privately owned sportsherman registered in the states – you, as the paid captain will need to be licensed and the crew may not. If you live in Hoboken and own the boat and want to run it yourself – you do not need to have any license – BUT – formalized training is highly recommended – for your safety and those around you!

If you are considering working at the international level aboard yachts, then you must start with the STCW Basic Safety Training and then work your way up from there based on your aspirations.

Want To Know More? Read our Frequently Asked Questions.