The National Apprentice Mate (Steersman) are enrolled in a mate training program approved by the Coast Guard and may be issued an MMC rating endorsement as apprentice mate and may be signed on a vessel in this capacity. The rating endorsement as apprentice mate may be in addition to other endorsements; however, this endorsement does not authorize the holder to replace any of the regular required crew. Persons holding the endorsement as apprentice mate are deemed to be seamen.