If you work in the maritime, offshore, or transportation industry in the United States, you’ve probably heard the phrase TWIC Card more times than you can count. For many, it’s not just a document—it’s your ticket to work. Whether you’re a merchant mariner, a dock worker, or part of an offshore crew, the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is mandatory to access secure maritime facilities and vessels regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).
Below, SeaEmploy.com provides an honest, step-by-step guide about what the TWIC Card is, who needs it, and exactly how to apply—without the usual government jargon.
What Is a TWIC Card and Why You Need It
The TWIC Card, short for Transportation Worker Identification Credential, is a biometric identification card issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the U.S. Coast Guard. It allows workers who need unescorted access to secure areas of U.S. maritime facilities and vessels to pass federal background screening and security clearance.
In plain terms
If your job involves entering secure maritime zones—like container terminals, refineries, offshore platforms, or ships docked in U.S. ports—you must have a valid TWIC Card. The card contains your photo, fingerprints, and a chip that verifies your identity when scanned.
The official TSA page defines it as a credential “required by the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) for mariners and workers who need unescorted access to secure areas.”
You can find the exact description here:
👉 TSA – Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Who Needs a TWIC Card
In general, anyone working in the maritime transportation environment that falls under MTSA-regulated facilities or vessels needs a TWIC.
This includes but isn’t limited to:
- Merchant Mariners (licensed or unlicensed)
- Dock workers, terminal and warehouse personnel
- Longshoremen and stevedores
- Ship repair and maintenance crews
- Truck drivers accessing port facilities
- Offshore oil and gas workers using U.S. ports
- Maritime security and inspection staff
If you hold—or are applying for—a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) through the U.S. Coast Guard, you must also have an active TWIC before your MMC can be issued.
For reference, here’s the official USCG page linking the MMC and TWIC requirements:
👉 U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center – Merchant Mariner Credentialing
TWIC Card Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the following:
- You must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or have legal immigration status that allows you to work in the U.S.
- You must pass a security threat assessment and criminal background check.
- You must have valid identity documents—such as a passport or driver’s license + birth certificate combination.
TSA checks your information against criminal, immigration, and terrorist watchlist databases to ensure you don’t pose a security risk.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your TWIC Card
This is the part where most applicants get lost in forms and appointments. Let’s break it down into clear, realistic steps.
Step 1: Pre-enroll Online
Go to the official TSA TWIC portal:
👉 TSA TWIC Enrollment Portal
Click on “Apply Now” to complete your pre-enrollment. You’ll need to provide:
- Your personal information (full name, date of birth, SSN, contact info)
- Citizenship or immigration details
- Background information
At this stage, you’ll also schedule your appointment at a nearby enrollment center and choose whether to pay online or in person.
💡 Pro Tip: Pre-enrollment saves time and ensures all your data is accurate before visiting the center.
Step 2: Pay the Fee
As of 2025, the TWIC Card fee is $125.25 for a five-year validity. If you already hold another TSA security credential (like a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)), you might qualify for a reduced fee of $93.
Check the latest fee schedule here:
👉 TSA TWIC Fee Information
You can pay with a credit card, money order, or company check. Many employers reimburse this cost, so check with your HR department first.
Step 3: Visit the Enrollment Center
Bring your identity documents (listed on the TSA site under “Required Identification Documents”) to your chosen enrollment center. The staff will:
- Verify your documents
- Capture your fingerprints and photo
- Confirm your personal information
You can find the nearest center here:
👉 Find a TWIC Enrollment Center
Appointments usually take about 15 minutes, but walk-ins may wait longer.
Step 4: Wait for Your Background Check
TSA performs a Security Threat Assessment (STA). This review checks federal databases for disqualifying offenses. Most applicants hear back in 30–45 days, though some receive approval faster.
If approved, your card will be mailed to your home or pickup location. If denied, TSA will send a letter explaining why and how to appeal or request a waiver. Details are here:
👉 TSA – Appeals and Waivers for TWIC
Step 5: Activate and Use Your TWIC Card
When your card arrives, follow the included activation instructions. You’ll need to:
- Set your personal identification number (PIN)
- Verify your fingerprints
- Sign the back of the card
From then on, your TWIC serves as your key to secure maritime facilities. Some employers use scanners; others simply check your card visually. Keep it safe and always accessible during port operations.
How Long Does a TWIC Card Last?
A TWIC Card is valid for five years. You can renew it up to six months before it expires by repeating the same application process. Keep in mind that your MMC and TWIC expiration dates should align if you hold both credentials.
When You Should Carry It
Always carry your TWIC Card when entering or working at:
- MTSA-regulated port facilities
- Vessels under U.S. Coast Guard jurisdiction
- Offshore platforms using U.S. ports for crew changes
Even if your job doesn’t require you to access secure zones daily, possessing a TWIC makes you more employable—many recruiters on SeaEmploy.com list it as a preferred qualification.
