What to do?

**Sukker** · December 11th, 2011, 01:35 PM

One of my good friends license is about to expire. Unfortunately he is not able to renew because of health problems. He is concerned that if his license expires that he will have to start over once his health improves. Any ideas or recommendations are greatly appreciated.

**CaptSteve** · December 11th, 2011, 02:14 PM

Why can't he go inactive and renew for continuity?

**Sukker** · December 11th, 2011, 02:33 PM

Originally Posted by CaptSteve

Why can't he go inactive and renew for continuity?

Perfect, one short answer and it was just what I was looking for. He spoke with the local REC and explained his situation unfortunately the paper pusher said that there was no such thing as renewing for continuity. Thanks for the help Steve.

**anchorman** · December 11th, 2011, 02:47 PM

Originally Posted by Sukker

Perfect, one short answer and it was just what I was looking for. He spoke with the local REC and explained his situation unfortunately the paper pusher said that there was no such thing as renewing for continuity. Thanks for the help Steve.

There is also an administrative period of one year past the expiration date, but continuity is specifically stated as a reason for a renewal application.

§ 10.227 Requirements for renewal.
(e) Document of continuity. (1) Applicants for renewal who are unwilling or otherwise unable to meet the requirements of paragraph (d) of this section, including but not limited to the medical and physical standards of §10.215, drug tests, and TWIC, may apply for a document of continuity issued by the Coast Guard. Documents of continuity do not expire and are issued solely to maintain an individual's eligibility for renewal. A document of continuity does not entitle an individual to serve as a merchant mariner. A holder of a document of continuity may obtain a properly endorsed, valid MMC at any time by satisfying the requirements for renewal as provided in paragraph (d)

**CaptSteve** · December 11th, 2011, 02:57 PM

Originally Posted by Sukker

Perfect, one short answer and it was just what I was looking for. He spoke with the local REC and explained his situation unfortunately the paper pusher said that there was no such thing as renewing for continuity. Thanks for the help Steve.

Glad I could help. With the amount of knowledge and experience on this board, this may be one of the few times I can provide an answer!