The credential
What does OUPV “Six-Pack” mean?
OUPV means Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels. It is commonly called a Six-Pack license because it is associated with carrying up to six passengers for hire on an uninspected passenger vessel. The route and authority printed on a credential depend on the mariner’s qualifications and Coast Guard evaluation.
Application pathway
Four steps from interest to exam prep
Choose the credential and route
Start with the current National Maritime Center checklist for the endorsement and route you intend to pursue.
Document your eligibility
Build the application package and supporting records required by the current checklist. Your service history and circumstances determine the exact evidence needed.
Receive the NMC evaluation
The National Maritime Center evaluates the application and tells you which examination or approved-course path applies.
Prepare for your assigned modules
Use the approval-to-test communication and current NMC examination guide as the controlling map for exam preparation.
Exam code ONC07
The four Near Coastal OUPV exam modules
The National Maritime Center’s ONC07 page lists Q100 through Q172 for OUPV Near Coastal. Each module has its own subject area and passing standard, so a high score in one module does not make up for a weak result in another.
50 questions
90% passing
Rules of the Road
International and Inland navigation rules, watchkeeping, responsibilities, lights, shapes, and sound signals.
50 questions
70% passing
Deck General & Safety
Seamanship, vessel handling, small engines, firefighting, emergencies, safety, law, and shipboard operations.
50 questions
70% passing
Navigation General
Piloting, compass work, charts and publications, aids to navigation, weather, tides, currents, and position finding.
10 problems
90% passing
Chart Plotting
Course, speed, distance, position, bearings, fixes, running fixes, dead reckoning, and chart-navigation problems.
Module counts and passing scores are presented as a study orientation to the NMC ONC07 exam listing. Follow the current instructions issued for your own application.
Study strategy
A better sequence than reading everything twice
Establish a baseline
Use a short mixed diagnostic to identify the first module that needs attention.
Learn one concept cluster
Work through the rule or procedure, then restate it in plain language without looking.
Retrieve and apply
Use flashcards and decision scenarios so recall works outside the wording of the lesson.
Verify under exam conditions
Complete a timed module simulation and send missed topics back into focused review.
Find your first weak module.
Take the free five-question OUPV practice test, then build an adaptive daily Study Watch.
Common questions
OUPV study FAQ
Is the Six-Pack license the same as an OUPV credential?
“Six-Pack” is the common name used for the OUPV credential because of its passenger-for-hire limit on an uninspected passenger vessel.
Can I use one combined score to pass the exam?
Treat each required module as its own test with its own passing standard. Build your study plan around the weakest module rather than relying on an overall average.
Are Command Ready questions actual Coast Guard exam questions?
No. Command Ready uses original practice questions and scenarios aligned to published subject areas. They are not represented as official or recalled examination questions.
Where should I verify the current requirements?
Use the National Maritime Center credential checklists, examination guide, and the instructions provided with your individual application or approval to test.