Mariners Learning System
FeaturedOnline USCG captain's license courses (OUPV and Master) completed entirely online, including an at-home proctored exam.
OnlineFrom $695USCG-approved
Course type
Captain's License
A USCG captain's license lets you carry paying passengers. The OUPV (“Six-Pack”) covers up to six passengers, while a Master license scales to larger vessels and crews. These are the highest-value…
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About captain's license courses
A USCG captain's license lets you carry paying passengers. The OUPV (“Six-Pack”) covers up to six passengers, while a Master license scales to larger vessels and crews.
These are the highest-value courses on the site: they take real study time, cost more, and lead to paid work, so choosing an accredited, well-reviewed provider matters.
Best captain's license providers
Our editorial picks — featured and top-rated providers first. Confirm the course is accepted in your state before enrolling.
4.5
A long-running maritime school offering USCG captain's license and professional courses online and at Southeast US campuses.
HybridFrom $600
Online USCG captain's license courses (OUPV through Master/Mate 200 Ton) with self-paced study and a proctored online exam.
OnlineFrom $595
Captain's License requirements by state
AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming
Frequently asked questions
- Who needs a captain's license course?
- Anyone who wants to operate safely and legally typically benefits from a captain's license course. Requirements vary by state and vessel — check your state's rules below, then pick an accredited provider that matches your situation and experience level.
- How much does a captain's license course cost?
- Prices vary by provider and format. Online courses are usually the most affordable, while in-person and hybrid options cost more for hands-on instruction. Compare the "from" prices on each provider card below to find the best fit for your budget.
- Can I take a captain's license course online?
- Many providers offer fully online courses you can complete at your own pace, and some offer hybrid formats that pair online study with an in-person session. Each provider card shows its available format so you can filter to what works for you.
- How do I choose the right captain's license provider?
- Weigh accreditation (NASBLA or USCG where relevant), price, format, and reviews. Start with our featured and top-rated picks below, confirm the course is accepted in your state, then enroll directly through the provider.
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