Mariners that successfully complete Radar Observer Recertification course will satisfy the requirements of 46 CFR 11.480(d) for renewal of any Radar Observer endorsement.

The course provides licensed deck officers a course that allows them to renew their radar endorsement as required every 5 years. The following will be utilized to accomplish this:

• Radar Transfer Plotting

• Rapid Radar Plotting techniques

Effective, July 22, 2019, per the USCG National Maritime Center, mariners who hold the Radar Observer (Unlimited) endorsement, and meet the requirements below, will no longer be required to complete a Coast Guard-approved radar refresher course or recertification exam in order to renew their endorsement. 

A mariner who serves in a relevant position on board a radar-equipped vessel for 1 year in the previous 5 years is not required to complete a Coast Guard-approved or accepted radar refresher or re-certification course to renew your endorsement. Relevant sea service means having served in a position that routinely uses radar for navigation and collision avoidance purposes on a radar-equipped vessel.