An applicant without proof of a current and valid certificate issued by a foreign government as in above, may apply for examination in order to qualify for an Original Watchstander Certificate.
Six (6) months of service in the deck department on ocean-going vessels, three (3) months of which must have been on vessels over 500 gross tons.
An applicant for Junior Ordinary Seaman or Ordinary Seaman must be at least 16 years of age.
Applicant must meet the physical examination requirements for an officer's certificate of competency.
The physical examination should be completed within the 12 months immediately preceding application with the results noted on a Physical Examination Report.
Ratings are not required to revalidate watchstander certification.