Interim certificates of competency

An interim certificate of competency (ICoC) is a document that allows you to start working while we process your application.

You can obtain an ICoC for these certificates:

• General purpose hand (GPH)  
• Coxswain grade 2
• Coxswain grade 1
• Master (Inland waters)
• Master less than 24 metres
• Marine engine driver grade 3
• Marine engine driver grade 2

How to get an ICoC

Registered training organisations (RTOs) that conduct AMSA mandated practical assessments (AMPAs) can issue an ICoC. Not all RTOs offer this service. Contact your RTO to check whether they issue ICoC. 

To obtain an ICoC:

1. Apply for your certificate of competency with AMSA.
2. Show the RTO evidence of your application and payment.
   • If you applied through the myAMSA portal:
     • notification of receipt of your application
     • the payment receipt
   • If you applied through Australia Post:
     • a copy of your application form
     • all supporting documents
     • the payment receipt
3. The AMPA assessor will:
   • check your documents
   • verify your details, and
   • fill in and sign the ICoC form.
4. Read all the information on the form and check your details are correct while you are at the RTO.

Note: An ICOC is only valid for one certificate of competency. If you need more than one, for example, an ICoC for a Master less than 24 metres and a Marine engine driver grade 2, you will need 2  separate ICOC forms.

Working with an ICoC

Once you have an ICoC you can start your new duties immediately. You must always keep a copy of the ICoC on you while working on a commercial vessel. You can use a printed copy or a photo of the ICoC on your phone for this purpose.

Bring it to work and keep it on you until you receive your full certificate of competency (CoC) card. You must be able to show a marine safety inspector a valid ICoC, if asked.

You must notify AMSA in writing as soon as possible if you become aware that the ICoC was issued in error or based on incorrect information.

How long is an ICoC valid?

Your ICoC is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. Your ICoC will automatically expire when you receive your certificate of competency (CoC) card.

Your ICoC will be revoked if we determine your application is incomplete or does not meet the requirements. We’ll notify you if this happens.

Once we have assessed and approved your CoC application, we will email you a certificate of competency letter. This will allow you to keep operating until your CoC card arrives in the post.

Check the CoC letter to make sure all of your details are correct, especially your nominated delivery address. 

If you have not received your CoC within 20 days of getting your CoC letter, please contact us.