TWIC Card | Apply | Login | Requirements | Renewal Status

A TWIC is a Transportation Worker Identity Card. This card is issued by the United States Transportation Security Administration and the United States Coast Guard. 

Apply for a TWIC from the TSA Universal Enroll webpage. In July 2018, the TSA began issuing the “TWIC Next Gen”. This updated design aims to deter counterfeiting and curb the fraudulent use of the credential by incorporating enhanced security features. Cardholders are not required to obtain a new or replacement card until the card expires. Regulated facilities or vessels that require TWIC for access will accept and recognize both the previous and new designs.

1. Who qualifies for a TWIC?  

Any citizen of the United States may apply for a TWIC.  If you are a non-US citizen, you are required to submit additional documentation of proof of permission to enter the U.S, for example, F-1 Visa, Permanent Resident (“Green”) card, etc. MARAD (Maritime Administration) can facilitate a TWIC for a foreign national attending a maritime academy. Non U.S citizens may contact Robyn Christopher, Licensing Coordinator, for further assistance.

2. Who is required to obtain a TWIC?

All enrolled students are required to possess a valid TWIC.

3. Why do I need a TWIC?

A TWIC is required for all Merchant Mariner Credential applications.  All Marine Transportation, Marine Engineering Technology, Facilities Engineering Technology, and Mechanical Engineering students are required by the U.S. Coast Guard to obtain a TWIC before sailing on their training cruise. In addition, Business Administration and Global Studies students, who live aboard the TS Golden Bear, intend to participate in a summer co-op aboard a vessel or within a transportation facility, are required to possess a TWIC.

3. When do I apply for a TWIC?  

It is highly recommended that those students with easy access to a TWIC office obtain and submit a copy of their TWIC card prior to their arrival to campus freshman year. Those students who do not have access to a TWIC office will need to obtain one soon after they arrive at Cal Maritime for their freshman year.

4.  How do I Apply for a TWIC?  

TWIC processing takes part in three steps:

1. On-line pre-enrollment process.
2. Visit to the TWIC enrollment center most convenient to you – to verify identification documents, be fingerprinted and pay your fees.
3. Second visit back to the same enrollment center to pick-up and activate your new TWIC.

Step One:

Pre-enrollment: You MUST Pre-Enroll – Applicants pre-enroll online and enter all required information.

1. Go to the Transportation Security Administration TWIC page.

2. Click on the green “New Enrollment” button.

3. Complete all required information fields, noting the following instructions:

Step 3 of 10 – When answering Personal Questions, answer “Yes” to the following question: “Are you applying for a TWIC as part of the Merchant Mariner Credentialing process?”

Step 6 of 10 – When entering Employment Information, select the following:

• Employment Status = “Pre-Employment/Unemployed”
• Occupation or Trade = “Merchant Mariner”

Step 7 of 10 – When answering Part A. Acknowledgements, answer “Yes” to question 1.

4. Complete the online application process by scheduling an appointment. You can find the nearest TWIC center by entering your zip code at the appropriate prompt in Step 9 of 10.

5. Submit your application request. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment location, date and time. Carefully review the required document information highlighted in red in this email, and be sure to bring these documents with you to your appointment. You will be required to provide a valid US Passport as proof of citizenship.

Step Two:

Visit an Enrollment Center: Attend your appointment. You can try “walking in”, however, anyone with an appointment will take precedence. You will do the following:

 Provide identification documentation (refer to your email for acceptable forms of ID)

 Be fingerprinted

 Sit for a digital photograph

 Establish a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to activate your TWIC.

 Pay the enrollment fee of $125.25. Credit card, debit card, or are preferred. Money orders are accepted, but will delay processing for payment verification. Cash and personal checks are NOT accepted. If paying by certified bank check or money order, make check payable to: IDEMIA

Step Three:

TWIC Receipt: You will receive your TWIC in the mail and be instructed to activate the card using the PIN you established during your appointment. Processing time averages 30-45 days. You can check your TWIC status online using the information provided in your confirmation email, or by calling 855-347-8371.