U.S Code last checked for updates: Apr 19, 2026
§ 7309.
Able seamen—special

The required service for the endorsement of able seaman—special, qualified for special service on a vessel on any waters, is at least 6 months 1

1
 So in original. Probably should be “6 months’ ”.
service on deck on board vessels operating on the oceans or the navigable waters of the United States (including the Great Lakes).

(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 543; Pub. L. 119–60, div. G, title LXXIII, § 7301(d)(4), Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1754.)
cite as: 46 USC 7309