OUPV / Six-Pack License Requirements: The 2026 Checklist

Start with the credential and route you actually need

OUPV stands for Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels. The credential is commonly called a “Six-Pack” license because of the passenger-operation context many applicants have in mind. That nickname is useful for searching, but it is not a complete description of your legal authority. The route, endorsement, vessel operation, and limitations printed on the credential control what you may do.

Before collecting forms or buying a course, write down the exact target: for example, an original OUPV Near Coastal application. A plan built for the wrong route can leave a gap even when you complete hundreds of practice questions. Use the current NMC checklist to confirm the route and transaction type that match your situation.

OUPV requirements checklist

The exact list depends on your application, but these are the categories to verify:

• The route and scope of the OUPV endorsement.
• Documented sea service and the vessel or route details supporting it.
• TWIC status or an applicable exemption.
• The CG-719B application and any applicable supporting forms.
• Medical documentation and a medical certificate, when applicable.
• Drug-testing and safety or suitability documentation, when applicable.
• Training certificates, assessments, or other evidence called for by your checklist.
• The current examination modules and sample material.
• Fees and the current submission channel.

Treat this as an organizing list, not as proof that you qualify. The NMC’s live application page is the controlling source for forms, document handling, and submission instructions. Third-party articles can explain the workflow, but they cannot replace the official evaluation of your application.

How sea service fits into the application

Sea service is not just a number copied from a forum post. Its relevance can depend on vessel type, tonnage, route, dates, duties, and the endorsement you request. Gather records that support your particular path and check that names, dates, vessel information, and signatures are consistent.

Do not add unrelated documents simply to make the packet look larger. A clear application folder should make it easy to see which record supports which requirement. If the NMC checklist asks for a specific form or evidence, follow that wording and preserve a copy of what you submitted.

Which examination modules may apply?

For the OUPV Near Coastal path, the NMC currently lists Q100 Rules of the Road, Q170 Deck General/Safety, Q171 Navigation General: Near Coastal, and Q172 Navigation Problems: Chart Plot on the ONC07 examination page. Other OUPV routes can use a different combination, so do not assume that this four-module list applies to every applicant.

Use the official module list to build your study calendar. Q100 calls for more than vocabulary recall: you need to identify a vessel situation and apply the correct rule. Q170 brings together deck knowledge and safety subjects. Q171 connects navigation concepts, publications, position determination, and practical decisions. Q172 requires a controlled chart-plot workflow, not just recognition of an answer choice.

A practical OUPV preparation sequence

After the credential target is confirmed, use this sequence:

1. Save the official NMC checklist and module page with the date you reviewed them.
2. Take a short diagnostic session in each applicable module.
3. Group missed questions by concept rather than by question number.
4. Review the weakest concept with the relevant reference material.
5. Mix familiar and new questions before adding time pressure.
6. Recheck official requirements immediately before submitting an application.

You can use USCG Prep practice sessions to organize this loop and compare your progress across modules. The about page explains the study workflow, while pricing is the place to compare the available preparation options. USCG Prep remains an independent study aid; it does not determine eligibility or provide Coast Guard guidance.

Final pre-application review

Before you submit, verify the credential type, route, sea-service evidence, forms, medical and safety documents, training evidence, fees, examination modules, and submission channel. Save the official pages you relied on and note when you checked them. Requirements and administrative processes can change, and an old checklist may omit a current form or portal step.

The safest OUPV plan has two tracks: an official-document track for eligibility and submission, and a study track for the modules you are actually taking. Keep those tracks connected, but do not treat a practice score as evidence that an application requirement is satisfied.