Master 100 GRT is the highest standard USCG captain's license — required to operate inspected passenger vessels with more than 6 passengers. Six exam sections, complete platform access, and a readiness score that tells you when you're ready.
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The first 4 sections are the same as OUPV. Master adds 2 advanced sections covering stability, celestial navigation, and inspected vessel operations.
One-time purchase. 12 months full access. No subscription.
All 6 exam sections. Full platform access.
Master + Sailing + Towing. Save $294.
Pass guarantee: if your 12-month access expires before you pass, we extend it at no charge.
OUPV lets you carry up to 6 passengers on uninspected vessels. Master 100 GRT allows you to operate inspected passenger vessels (T-Boats) carrying more than 6 passengers, up to 100 gross tons. Master requires additional exam sections and is the license required for ferries, tour boats, and larger passenger operations.
You can apply directly for Master 100 GRT — OUPV is not a prerequisite. However, Master requires more sea time: 720 days total, with 360 days as officer in charge of a navigational watch. Many applicants earn OUPV first and upgrade, but it is not required.
Any inspected passenger vessel carrying more than 6 paying passengers requires a Master-credentialed operator. This includes passenger ferries, dinner cruise boats, tour vessels, whale watching boats, and any T-Boat under USCG Subchapter T or K. OUPV operators cannot legally operate these vessels.
Two additional sections: Master Deck and Stability (50 questions, 70% to pass) and Master Navigation Advanced (50 questions, 70% to pass). These cover advanced stability, celestial navigation, voyage planning, inspected vessel regulations, and cargo operations.
Most students who already have OUPV experience study 3–5 additional weeks for the Master sections. Starting from scratch, plan 8–12 weeks total. The extra Master sections cover more advanced stability and celestial nav — topics that take more time but are very learnable with structured prep.
Yes. Sailing Endorsement (to operate sailing vessels commercially) and Towing Endorsement (for commercial towing work) can be added to any Master credential. You can bundle them all with our Captain's Complete package.
Our platform lets you unlock Master content at any time. You pick up exactly where OUPV left off — no re-studying what you already know. The upgrade price is the difference between your original OUPV purchase and the Master tier.
In-depth guides on every Master exam topic — no account required.
Which license do you need? Side-by-side comparison with vessel type examples.
GM, GZ curves, free surface effect, weight management — the Master stability section.
Sextant, Nautical Almanac, HO 229 vs 249, noon sight, and worked problems.
Loading, loll, damage stability, trim, IMDG — everything in the Master Deck section.
IMO 4-phase model, weather routing, waypoints, communications, and watchkeeping.
STCW rest hours, OOW duties, calling the master, night orders, BRM.
ISM Code, SMS, Subchapter M, SOLAS, STCW, and GMDSS.
Advanced meteorology, tropical weather, heavy weather tactics, GRIB files.
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