A Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) is an ID issued and regulated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It is designed to grant access to United States ports and is required to obtain a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). As a CIVMAR, you will rarely use your TWIC for port access since MSC ships almost exclusively dock at Navy bases in the United States, where a CAC is needed. For more information on a CACs, please see our article HERE.
TWIC and the Pool
An expired TWIC will not prevent you from checking into the pool to receive a ship assignment. However, you must have a valid TWIC to renew your MMC. Without a valid MMC, you cannot check into the pool. Renewing both your TWIC and MMC simultaneously can delay an already lengthy process.
How to Get a TWIC
Obtaining and renewing a TWIC is relatively straightforward. Follow the TSA link below to complete the online application and schedule an in-person appointment:
TSA/TWIC Application: https://www.tsa.gov/twic
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