Michigan Captain's License

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

TL;DR

Michigan 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 Toledo, OH. Michigan's Great Lakes salmon and trout charter scene is one of the largest in the country. OUPV Inland is the typical credential since Great Lakes inland waters are inside COLREGs demarcation; larger boats step up to Master 100.

The credentials charter captains pursue in Michigan

OUPV Inland (Six-Pack) — operates uninspected ≤6-passenger charter boats inside COLREGs demarcation lines (bays, sounds, lakes, rivers).
Master 50 GT — mid-tier inspected-vessel master — typical for charter sport-fish operations under 50 gross tons.
Master 100 GT — full inspected-vessel master up to 100 GT — required for larger charter and tour vessels.

Charter hubs in Michigan

Traverse City
Saugatuck
Ludington
Manistee
Frankfort
Detroit 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 Toledo, OH, 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.