TWIC is a TSA-issued credential required for unescorted access to secure maritime facilities and vessels. Every USCG OUPV and Master applicant must hold a current TWIC.
TL;DR
TWIC: pre-enrol online, fingerprint at a TSA enrolment centre, $125 fee, 5-year card. Required for every USCG credential.
Pre-enrol on the TSA's TWIC site, schedule a fingerprint appointment at one of the enrolment centres (search by ZIP), bring a passport or birth certificate + photo ID, pay the $125 fee. Card mails in 6–10 weeks.
TWIC is valid 5 years. Renewal is online for most candidates — full re-enrolment with new fingerprints is required only every 10 years (one-time extension is available for a discount).
Free during early access
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