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

Mariner’s must have served on the appropriate radar-equipped vessels, in a position that routinely uses radar for 1 year in the previous 5 years for navigation and collision avoidance purposes.  They will need to provide proof they meet the requirements in their sea time letter.

The following statement is recommended to be included in the sea time letter: “MARINER’S FULL NAME AND MMC has served on the appropriate radar-equipped vessels (STATE VESSEL DETAILS), in a position that routinely uses radar for a minimum of 360 days in the previous 5 years for navigation and collision avoidance purposes.”

For complete details and to confirm your vessel meets the requirements read the Policy Letter CG-MMC No. 03-19 Policy Letter 03-19.  Or visit the NMC website at: https://www.dco.uscg.mil/national_maritime_center/.