A seafarer who has received a dangerous cargo endorsement is authorized to work on any vessel that transports products classified as dangerous marine goods. A nation's government must provide a vessel with special authorization before transporting goods like gasoline, petroleum, chemicals, etc. Every Seafarer must have a DC endorsement to be qualified to work on such vessels.

Why is a certificate for dangerous cargo required?

A dangerous cargo certificate is a crucial component of seafarers' credentials if they plan to operate aboard ships transporting dangerous commodities at sea. This page outlines the steps for acquiring the advanced level Dangerous Cargo Endorsement (DCE) necessary for officers to be in command of or control cargo operations.

Keep the Seafarer's Profile current as the first step to earning the DCE Advanced. Update Seafarer's Profile contains all the specific instructions for updating the Seafarer's Profile. The Advanced Training for the suitable tanker type for which the DCE is sought should also be updated in the Profile. Before uploading, read the guidelines for the photograph and signature; otherwise, the application will be reverted.

The DCE application process is entirely online and must be rigorously followed for the MMD to provide the Certificate promptly. The DCE Endorsement can only be obtained by mail. Thus the applicant should wait to go to the MMD to pick it up.

Qualifications required for Dangerous Cargo Endorsement

A tanker endorsement at Level 2 for service on an oil, chemical, or liquefied gas tanker, as appropriate, may be granted to Masters, Chief Engineer Officers, Chief Mates, Second Engineer Officers, and any other person with immediate responsibility for loading, discharging, and care in transit or handling of cargo on tankers.

Advanced Fire Fighting Course (STCW Code A-VI/3)

Specialized Training Program on Oil/Chemical/Liquefied Gas Tanker Operations; Certificate of Competency at Operational or Management Level;

Three months of Operational Level experience OR

Required within the previous 60 months: 6 months of experience as an Officer Trainee on the type of tanker requested (5 Years).

A simulator course for advanced liquid cargo handling is only available to deck officers on oil tankers (5 days)

Application Methodology:

The first step in any application process is maintaining the Seafarer's profile. If any discrepancies in the personal information appear on the application form, update or correct the Profile. After logging in, select the DC Endorsement, GMDSS Radio Operator link from the Seafarer's Profile. Doing a Dangerous Goods Endorsement Course will help.

DC endorsement Support for Advanced (Level II)

Verify the information reflected on the Profile for accuracy before filling out the other information.

Choose the MMD you want to apply to; choosing the closest one will result in faster delivery.

Pick the New/Renewal application type.

Enter the Grade details that apply and the CoC information (the application cannot move further without this information).

If you apply for a new DCE Advanced, enter your current DCE Basic information. If not, enter your current DCE Advanced information.