Certificate of Competency (CoC)

Officers and engineers — issuing administration, validity, renewal, EAR for second flags.

What it is

A national maritime administration's certification under STCW that a deck or engine officer is competent to hold a specific level of watchkeeping or command. Issued at the OOW (II/1), CO (II/2 chief mate), Master (II/2 master), and equivalent engine levels (III/1, III/2, III/2 chief).

Who needs it

Deck and engine officers and engineers. Not the same as a Certificate of Proficiency (CoP).

When it is checked

• Sign-on muster.
• Port-state-control inspection.
• Flag endorsement (EAR) application.

Common mistakes

• Letting the 5-year validity lapse — see /stcw/revalidation.
• Sailing under a second flag without an EAR.
• Carrying a non-genuine or unverifiable certificate — flag administrations publish verification portals.

Validity

5 years from issue. Renewable subject to sea service or refresher courses.

Last verified 15 days ago