The OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) credential is the entry-level commercial captain license issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Holders may carry up to 6 paying passengers on uninspected vessels — the reason it's universally called the "6-pack" license. It covers fishing charters, water taxis, sailing instruction, and similar small-passenger operations.
Sea service requirement
To qualify, you need 360 days on the water total, with at least 90 of those days occurring within the 3 years immediately before your application. Days at anchor or mooring don't count — time must be underway. Service may be on any vessel type (recreational, commercial, sail, power) and on any waters (inland, lakes, coastal). Keep a logbook from day one; the NMC requires signed documentation for every day you claim.
Exam modules
The OUPV written exam is administered at a Regional Exam Center (REC) and covers five subject areas:
- Rules of the Road — 72 COLREGS plus applicable inland rules. Passing threshold: 80%. This is the module where most candidates fail.
- Charts & Navigation — aids to navigation, buoyage, chart symbols, compass correction (70% required)
- Navigation Problems — dead reckoning, current vectors, tide, speed-time-distance (70%)
- Deck General Safety — seamanship, line handling, anchoring, firefighting, damage control (70%)
- First Aid / CPR — a certification (not a written exam), valid within 2 years of application
What "uninspected" means
An uninspected passenger vessel (UPV) is one that carries 6 or fewer passengers for hire and is not subject to mandatory USCG inspection. Because the vessel doesn't carry a Certificate of Inspection, the captain's credential is the primary safety control. If you want to carry more than 6 passengers, the vessel must be inspected and you'll need a Master credential instead.
Application steps
- Assemble your sea service documentation (signed logbook, letters from vessel owners)
- Get a USCG-approved physical (CG-719K form) from a physician
- Complete a drug test through a USCG-approved Substance Abuse Program Manager (SAPM)
- Obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card
- Pass the written exam at your nearest Regional Exam Center
- Submit your application package — the NMC will issue your MMC (Merchant Mariner Credential)
Typical study timeline
Most candidates reach exam-ready in 2–4 weeks of focused self-study. Rules of the Road is the priority: study the 72 COLREGS rules first, then drill scenarios. Navigation Problems trips up candidates who haven't done vector math recently — set aside extra time. First Aid/CPR can be completed at a local Red Cross class in a single weekend.