I used Adams, and they were pretty thorough. They do teach primarily what is used on the test, but it's the
USCG that approves the test and materials, not the school. Even the USCG testing, which is rare now has
the questions used availible to review beforehand. The course instructor I had was a 35yr Navy man, with
a primary background in navigation and charting. He went heavy on this, but with good reason. If all your
electronics fail, this information could save your life.

As to the TWIC requirements, they are actually less strict than the USCG requirements. The TWIC has a
simple criminal history requirement list, but USCG has much more, including DUI history, drugs, etc. I
Believe drug smuggling may exclude one from becomming a Captain indefinitly under USCG standards. The
USCG uses TWIC, but has its own standards also.

Testing can go many ways. I was an "A" student that NEVER did "homework", and I passed with only (1)
wrong answer on all 4 parts, wheras an engineer at the cape had to retake it. Testing doesnt necessarly
reflect memory or intelligence, but sometimes the process itself creates problems (taking a test). The USCG
ammumes, based on your testimony, that you enter into the licensing process with an experiance level better
than the average boater. Sea-service time requirements dictate this. The new boaters education requirements
hopefully will start to help a lot of "stupidity" on the water, but really that should have happened years ago.
Medical requirements are also a USCG iem.

A lot of other requirements to operate as a Captian are often overlooked. A USCG licensed Captain must
be enrolled in a random drug testing program, have a current first aid card (as mentioned), carry a coast/port
pilot, tide chart, lights list, and have charts for the waters navigated (unless the electronic charts on the boat
are on an isolated battery from the motors). If the boat carries passengers then at least UPV gear requirements
come into play.

The USCG licensed Captain is responsable to ensure these requirements are met, and all required gear and
paperwork is onboard. I carry an "Overboard Bag" with all of the paperwork and doccumentation, as well as
my portable VHF and GPS beacon. This way I have all of the essentials even if I go on another boat.

Bottom line, after observing how many boaters operate, I think that all boat operators should have some sort
of license requirements, like they do for cars, but then again, look at how some auto operators drive with
a license! At least basic rules of navigation and operating proceedures would be known.

Something not required, but I think it should be is insurance. I have it, and its serves as both a protection to my
clients and me and my family.

Captain Henry
ACME Ventures llc
www.ACME-Ventures-Fishing.com
321-794-7955