I need to put up the old “bat signal” for @jdcavo, or anyone else who might have experience/insight into my renewal situation…
Mine expires 7/13/21 – I know, I should have gotten my shit together sooner…
I had HOPED that the “waiver” allowing sea service in lieu of a “Revalidation” might be extended, but after speaking to NMC today, I was told that – even if I choose the “renew now” option vs on the actual date – I cannot use my 360/5yrs, because my MMC expires after the June 30 date per the MSIB 08-20 (https://www.dco.uscg.mil/Portals/9/NMC/pdfs/announcements/2020/MSIB_08-20_CH4.pdf)
That means I have to take a Revalidation class – $800 + 2 days, and more concerning is I can’t get into a class until early May in my area.
That wouldn’t be an issue, except I’m really trying to get out on a 60 contract by end of April.
SO, my question(s) to you all is:
ROUGHLY how long are Renewals taking?
Should I submit the application ASAP even though I won’t have the BT Revalidation cert until early May, or should I wait until I have ALL the docs needed?
OR
In an effort to get back to work ASAP, should I/could I simply wait until I return from this next hitch, take the class, send the application, and just hope that I can get the renewed MMC within a couple of months, and ship out again late Summer or early Fall?
What happens if my hitch extends past the expiration date? Can I continue to sail?
Thanks in advance for your help!