(a) To qualify for this endorsement as Able Seafarer-Deck, an applicant must—

(1) Be not less than 18 years of age;

(2) Meet the requirements for certification as Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW);

(3) While qualified as an RFPNW, have seagoing service in the deck department of—

(i) Not less than 18 months; or

(ii) Not less than 12 months and have completed approved training;

(4) Provide evidence of meeting the standard of competence specified in Table A-II/5 of the STCW Code (incorporated by reference, see § 12.103); and

(5) Provide evidence of having satisfactorily completed approved training in—

(i) Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than Fast Rescue Boats (PSC); or

(ii) Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats, other than lifeboats or Fast Rescue Boats-Limited (PSC-Limited), as appropriate.

(b) Seafarers holding a rating endorsement as Able Seafarer before January 1, 2017, will be eligible for this endorsement upon showing evidence of—

(1) Holding an endorsement as an RFPNW; and

(2) Having satisfactorily completed approved training in—

(i) Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats, other than Fast Rescue Boats (PSC); or

(ii) Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats, other than lifeboats or Fast Rescue Boats (PSC-Limited), as appropriate.

(c) The Coast Guard may exempt an applicant from meeting any individual knowledge, understanding, and proficiency required in Section A-II/5 of the STCW Code. These exemptions must be approved by the Coast Guard, based upon vessel type. Under these circumstances, the endorsement may include a corresponding limitation.

(d) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, seafarers with the following national rating endorsements will be eligible for this endorsement upon completion of the requirements designated in this section: