Idaho Captain's License

OUPV (Six-Pack) and Master credentials for charter operators in Idaho.

TL;DR

Idaho does not issue its own captain's license — the credential is the federal USCG OUPV or Master license. The nearest USCG Regional Examination Center is Portland, OR. Idaho fishing guides typically hold OUPV Inland for charter work on Lake Pend Oreille and Lake Coeur d'Alene. The Snake River is a navigable Western River.

The credentials charter captains pursue in Idaho

OUPV Inland (Six-Pack) — operates uninspected ≤6-passenger charter boats inside COLREGs demarcation lines (bays, sounds, lakes, rivers).

Charter hubs in Idaho

Lake Pend Oreille
Coeur d'Alene Lake
Snake River

Path to the license

Document at least 360 days of sea service — see our sea-time requirements guide. 90 of those must be within the last 3 years.
Pass a USCG-approved physical (CG-719K) and drug test (CG-719P).
Submit your application package to the National Maritime Center.
Schedule and pass the written exam at REC Portland, OR, or at any USCG-approved third-party course that grants exam authority.
Complete the TWIC card application and CPR/First Aid certification before the credential is issued.

Nearby state guides

Start studying — free during early access

The federal exam is the same nationwide. CaptainsGround drills you against citation-backed questions from 33/46 CFR, COLREGs, and Bowditch.