Kentucky Captain's License

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

TL;DR

Kentucky 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 Memphis, TN. Kentucky reservoir and Ohio River guides pursue OUPV Inland. The Ohio is a Western River subject to its own pilot rules.

The credentials charter captains pursue in Kentucky

OUPV Inland (Six-Pack) — operates uninspected ≤6-passenger charter boats inside COLREGs demarcation lines (bays, sounds, lakes, rivers).
Master 25 GT — small-vessel inspected master, common for harbour tour boats and inland sightseeing.

Charter hubs in Kentucky

Kentucky Lake
Lake Cumberland
Ohio 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 Memphis, TN, 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.