How do I apply for a general purpose hand endorsement
To work as a general purpose hand on a commercial vessel you must be at least 15 years of age and have a general purpose hand endorsement issued by NSW Maritime.
What you need to do:
- Completed NSW Maritime Application for Marine Certification form;
- Provide proof of your identity;
- Supply two colour passport photos if you do not already have a Record of Service (RoS) or ROPES book;
- Supply your RoS book or ROPES Master 5 or Coxswain book;
- Provide a Certificate from an approved training provider showing one of the following qualifications:
- Certificate 1 in Transport & Distribution (Maritime Operations)
- Certificate 1 in the Seafood Industry (Fishing Operations)
- Certificate 1 in National Marine Operations
- Provide a current senior first aid certificate; and
- Meet specific medical and eyesight standards.
You may lodge an application at any NSW Maritime office. Your general purpose hand endorsement will be issued on the spot.
There is no fee for a General Purpose Hand endorsement. However, you must have a Record of Service book or ROPES book. Your general purpose hand endorsement will be recorded in your RoS or ROPES book.