Certification: STCW - Vessel Security Officer (VSO)

United States Coast Guard National Maritime Center

100 Forbes Drive Martinsburg, WV 25404-7120

The STCW - Vessel Security Officer (VSO) performs the duties and responsibilities defined in 33CFR104.215. VSO's have knowledge and training in, basic vessel layout and construction, shipboard organization, shipboard safety, protection of the marine environment and familiarity with key definitions, terminology, and operational practices employed in the maritime industry.

More information about this certification

More than two years of education or training after high school required?: No
More than two years of work experience required?: No
Oral or Written Exam Required?: Yes
Renewal Required?: Every 5 Year(s)
Renew through Continuing Educational Units(CEU)?: No
Renew through Re-Examination?: Yes
Renew through Continuing Professional Development(CPD)?: Yes
Does applicant have choice of at least two options from above for renewal (CEU, CPD, or exam)?: Yes

Other

Core

The certification does not have a minimum education level or has an education level below a two-year Associates of Arts or Associates of Sciences degree and the certification does not have a minimum requirement for work experience or requires two or less years of work experience.
The certification has an education level of an Associates of Arts or Associates of Sciences degree or higher, but has a work experience requirement of less than 2 years of work experience.
The certification has a work experience requirement of more than 2 years but does not require a two-year Associates of Arts or Associates of Sciences degree.