Fill Out Your Cg 719S Form

What is the purpose of the CG-719S form?

The CG-719S form, also known as the Small Vessel Sea Service Form, is utilized by the U.S. Coast Guard to collect information from individuals seeking to obtain a U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). This form specifically records the sea service of individuals who have served on vessels of less than 200 gross register tons. The information you provide helps assess whether you meet the regulatory standards required to operate a vessel. Accurate and complete information is essential in determining your qualifications.

Who needs to fill out the CG-719S form?

Individuals who are applying for a credential to operate a small vessel under the U.S. Coast Guard's jurisdiction must complete the CG-719S form. This applies to both vessel owners who can attest to their own experience and those who have served on someone else's vessel. If you do not own the vessel, you will need to gather letters or other documentation from licensed personnel or the vessel's owner attesting to your service.

How is the information on the CG-719S form used?

The information collected on the CG-719S form is primarily used to verify an applicant's experience at sea. The U.S. Coast Guard reviews this data to ensure compliance with national and international maritime regulations. It plays a critical role in maintaining the safety standards of those operating vessels. The information may also be utilized to update records of merchant mariner documentation transactions, contributing to the overall integrity of maritime operations.

What happens if I provide false information on the CG-719S form?

Providing false or fraudulent statements on the CG-719S form can have serious legal repercussions. Individuals who knowingly submit inaccurate information may face penalties, including fines or imprisonment of up to five years, under 18 U.S.C. 1001. The Coast Guard takes such violations very seriously, and the integrity of the application process is enforced to ensure the safety of all maritime operations.

When filling out the Cg 719S form, one common mistake individuals make is providing incorrect or incomplete personal information. Providing details such as the applicant's name, social security number, or vessel name needs to be accurate. An error in this section can lead to delays in processing or even a rejection of the application.

Another mistake is failing to accurately record the days of service under the appropriate months. Each applicant must record the number of days served for every individual year. If any of this information is missing or inaccurately reported, it can result in a discrepancy in the service record, which may affect eligibility for credentials.

Additionally, some individuals overlook the requirement to clarify their role on the vessel. Properly indicating whether the applicant served as a master, mate, or another position is essential. Missing this information could lead to misunderstandings regarding experience levels and qualifications.

Lastly, many applicants neglect to read the signature and verification sections thoroughly. The certifications regarding the truthfulness of the statements must be acknowledged, and this includes understanding the consequences of providing false information. Not recognizing the seriousness of this part can impact an applicant's future credentials.

The CG-719S form is commonly used to document sea service experience for individuals operating small vessels. When submitting this form, other documents may also be required or beneficial for your application. Below are some of these important forms and documents.

• CG-719B: This is the Application for Merchant Marine Credential. It is a comprehensive form that applicants must complete to request various maritime credentials.
• CG-719K: This form is a Medical Evaluation report. It serves to document an applicant’s medical fitness, which is necessary for obtaining a Merchant Mariner Credential.
• Service Letters: These letters provide official verification of an individual's maritime service. They can come from vessel owners or operators and must detail the nature of the experience.
• Proof of Ownership: This document can establish the applicant’s ownership of the vessel listed on the CG-719S form. It can include title documents, registration, or bill of sale.
• Sea Service Verification: This document outlines the specifics of the service time spent on vessels. It could detail hours, dates, and activities performed while aboard.
• Form CG-5377: This is the Report of Sea Service, which records additional sea service that may not be included in the CG-719S form. It helps in providing a comprehensive sea service record.
• Certificate of Completion: For individuals who have completed a Coast Guard-approved training course, this certificate can document that training and enhance credibility.
• Photo Identification: A government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport, may be required to verify identity when submitting forms.
• Application Fee: Proof of payment for any applicable fees related to the Merchant Mariner Credential application should also be included.

By gathering and submitting these documents along with the CG-719S form, applicants can ensure a smoother application process for their Merchant Mariner Credential. Each item plays a vital role in demonstrating qualifications and compliance with US Coast Guard requirements.

• CG-719B Form: This is used to document service for larger vessels. It tracks similar information like the vessel's name and the applicant's service records, but accommodates larger gross tonnage.

• CG-719K Form: This form is for documenting medical evaluations for mariners. While it focuses on health, it still works alongside the CG-719S to determine qualifications for operating a vessel.

• CG-719P Form: This form is a personal and financial disclosure. Like the CG-719S, it is required for mariner credentialing and includes information about the applicant’s background.

• CG-7004 Form: Used for mariner credential applications, this form captures basic information, including personal history, similar to the initial sections of the CG-719S.

• CG-6038 Form: This form records service on fishing vessels. While it targets a specific industry, it serves the same purpose of documenting service hours and experiences.

• Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC): The MMC itself integrates information from various forms, including the CG-719S, to establish a mariner's eligibility to operate vessels.

• STCW Certificates: These documents certify training and competencies of mariners. While focused on skills and training, they complement the service records kept in the CG-719S.

The Cg 719S form is crucial for those looking to document their sea service on vessels under 200 gross register tons. Filling it out correctly is essential for avoiding delays or issues with your application. Here are ten tips to help you navigate the process.

• Do read the instructions carefully before starting to fill out the form.
• Do complete one form for each vessel you have served on.
• Do provide accurate information regarding your service to avoid any legal issues.
• Do ensure your contact information is current and complete.
• Do gather supporting documentation to verify your service, such as letters from vessel owners.

• Don't submit incomplete forms; all sections must be filled out as required.
• Don't falsify any information; this can lead to severe penalties including fines and imprisonment.
• Don't forget to sign and date the form; both the applicant and the attester must provide their signatures.
• Don't miss the deadline for submission, as late submissions can affect your credentialing process.
• Don't overlook the privacy notice; understand how your information will be used and protected.

There are several misconceptions about the CG 719S form, often leading to confusion among potential applicants. Understanding these can help ensure a smoother application process. Here are five common misconceptions:

• Misconception 1: The CG 719S form is mandatory for all applicants.

In reality, the CG 719S form is optional. It is specifically used to document sea service for individuals applying for a credential to operate a vessel of less than 200 gross register tons. While it may be helpful for documenting experience, not all applicants are required to fill it out.

• Misconception 2: You can only use the CG 719S form for one vessel.

This is not true. You can complete one form per vessel, but you can also submit multiple forms for different vessels if needed. Each form should reflect your sea service on that specific vessel to maintain clarity.

• Misconception 3: Only vessel owners can attest to service on the CG 719S form.

This misconception overlooks the details of the form. While vessel owners may certify their own experience, licensed personnel or other vessel owners can also provide letters or evidence of sea service. This flexibility helps accommodate various situations.

• Misconception 4: Filling out the CG 719S form guarantees a credential.

Submitting the CG 719S form does not automatically mean that you will receive a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). The Coast Guard evaluates all applications based on various regulatory standards, and meeting those is essential for credential approval.

• Misconception 5: Information provided on the form is shared widely.

In fact, the information collected on the CG 719S form is protected and not shared outside the Department of Homeland Security unless required by regulations. The purpose of collecting information is solely for evaluating qualifications for a credential.

Addressing these misconceptions can help clear up confusion and streamline the process for those applying for maritime credentials. Always consult the latest guidelines and regulations to ensure compliance.

Here are key takeaways about filling out and using the CG-719S form:

• Complete one form for each vessel you served on, providing your name and relevant details.
• Include your Social Security Number for identification purposes.
• Record the vessel's name, official number, and physical dimensions accurately.
• Indicate the type of propulsion the vessel uses—motor, steam, gas turbine, sail, or auxiliary sail.
• Clearly state your role on the vessel such as master, mate, operator, or deckhand.
• Document the number of days served under each month for the required year.
• Calculate and record the total number of days served on the vessel.
• Provide the average hours underway per day and details on distances offshore.
• If you do not own the vessel, acquire letters from licensed personnel or the owners attesting to your experience.
• Be aware that falsifying information may lead to serious penalties, including fines or imprisonment.