Before you can become a full fledged mariner or boat officer, you will need to take and pass the US Coast Guard license exams. The United States maritime industry has strict regulations especially for those aspiring to become a Captain. You can only command a boat, a charter cruise, or a commercial vessel if you have a Captain’s License from the Coast Guard. You also need to know updated regulations on shipping transport which are embodied in 49 CFR or Code of Federal Regulations. Fortunately, there are good materials available today that allow you to self-study for the license examinations.
First, you should get updated 49 CFR book which is available in most maritime bookstores. However, if you want to be sure that your 49 CFR copy contains the most updated rules and regulations of the Federal authorities you should check the shelves of Seabreeze Nautical Books and Charts. This bookstore is located in San Diego and has the most extensive collection of maritime books, charts, software, and tools. It is very important to have the latest copy of 49 CFR because you will get into legal trouble if you do not know the Federal regulations on maritime transport. Besides, knowledge of the Code of Federal Regulations for maritime transport will greatly help you during your license exams.
Aside from studying and understanding the different parts of CFR 49, you also have to prepare yourself for the actual Coast Guard Captain’s license exam. One of the best self study methods that you can do is to take several simulated exams. A simulated exam is very useful for examinees. You will not feel pressured during actual exams if you will take lots of simulated exams. This self confidence will greatly help you to pass the exam provided by the US Coast Guard to get your captains license. Just like in other endeavors, getting lots of practice will help you to master your craft. So if you practice the exams of the US Coast Guard often, then you will surely pass the test in one sitting alone. This will save you time and money and you will get your captains license so you can command your own boat.
There are lots of review materials available for you but one of the best reviewers that you can have is ‘Get Your Captain’s License.’ This is a combo review material in book and CD ROM format. The CD ROM can be used to simulate actual US Coast Guard license exams. The software will generate random questions based on the applicable exam modules of the US Coast Guard. So, you will have the advantage preparing thoroughly for the exam if you get a copy of ‘Get Your Captain’s License’ book and CD.
Aside from the test questions that you can get from the CD, the book also provides detailed tutorials and lessons. If you can master the tutorials provided in the book, you can easily get your captains license from the US Coast Guard. The biggest advantage that you can enjoy from the book is that you can bring it anywhere and study whenever you have a free time.
Get the most updated 49 CFR: http://www.seabreezenauticalbooks.com/
