This has come up a couple of times lately, so I thought I’d put a link on here and explain the electronic CFRs for those of us that might be new to looking up regulations.
46 CFR is the main section that deals with licensing (er, sorry, Capt_Anon, I meant credentialing). If you were used to going to 46 CFR 10 for most of your queries about service requirements for your license, etc., you need to know that the CFRs changed quite a bit a couple of months ago, and 46 CFR 11 is now where you need to go. But, most all of the sections in Subchapter B are relevant to you as a mariner.
Scroll down and select Title 46.
SUBCHAPTER B–MERCHANT MARINE OFFICERS AND SEAMEN
10.101 to 10.239
MERCHANT MARINER CREDENTIAL
11.101 to 11.1105
REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFICER ENDORSEMENTS
12.01-1 to 12.40-15
REQUIREMENTS FOR RATING ENDORSEMENTS
13.101 to 13.509
CERTIFICATION OF TANKERMEN
14.101 to 14.407
SHIPMENT AND DISCHARGE OF MERCHANT MARINERS
15.101 to 15.1113
MANNING REQUIREMENTS
16.101 to 16.500
CHEMICAL TESTING
When I apply for a renewal, upgrade, whatever, I always check the CFRs and then reference the applicable regs in my application to the USCG. (Make it as easy as possible on the evaluator at NMC to do their job correctly.)
The CFRs are not the only regulations that affect your career, but they are a darn good place to start. If I get positive feedback on this post, I can do something similiar with NVICs, Policy Letters and the Marine Safety Manual as well. Let me know.