The maritime industry requires two initial documents:
Merchant Mariner’s Credential (MMC)
Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
MMC requires an application to the National Maritime Center, along with the following submissions: Documentation of Citizenship or Nationality, TWIC Card, Completed Physical Exam, Completed Drug Test, Fees.
The Merchant Mariner Credential Acceptance Checklist lists the minimum materials to be submitted with an application. Take in person, email, fax or mail the completed application and the accompanying documents to a Regional Examination Center. Do not mail, email or fax the application directly to the National Maritime Center.
TWIC requires an application through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), followed by a personal interview which can be scheduled online. Citizenship Documentation, fingerprinting, and a fee are required to obtain a TWIC.