Merchant Navy Medical Test Requirements
Every seafarer must hold a valid medical fitness certificate before joining a ship. This guide explains the international standard that applies almost everywhere, then breaks down the country-by-country specifics — issuing authority, eyesight, colour vision, hearing, validity and where to get examined.
The international standard (STCW & MLC)
Nearly every maritime nation issues seafarer medical certificates against the same framework: STCW Regulation I/9, the ILO Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) and the joint ILO/IMO Guidelines on the Medical Examinations of Seafarers. That is why the requirements look so similar worldwide — the differences are mostly in who issues the certificate and a handful of stricter national rules. Select your country below for the specifics.
International (STCW / MLC)
Seafarer Medical Fitness Certificate
STCW Reg. I/9 · ILO MLC 2006 (A1.2) · ILO/IMO Medical Examination Guidelines
- Conducted by
- A doctor approved/recognised by the flag or training state's maritime authority
- Certificate validity
- Maximum 2 years (maximum 1 year for seafarers under 18). Colour-vision result valid up to 6 years.
- Eyesight
- Distance vision (aided allowed) generally at least 0.5 in each eye for navigational-watch (deck) roles; engine-department standards are defined separately. Near/intermediate vision must be sufficient to read charts, instruments and publications.
- Colour vision
- Seafarers performing lookout/navigational duties must be able to distinguish the colours used for signals and aids to navigation (a recognised test such as Ishihara). Standards are more relaxed for some engine/other roles.
- Hearing
- Must be able to hear normal speech and audible alarms; a defined audiometric threshold applies per role (hearing aids permitted for some duties).
General fitness
- Free of any condition likely to be aggravated by sea service, to endanger the health/safety of others, or to render the seafarer unfit for service.
- Cardiovascular, respiratory and neurological fitness (no uncontrolled epilepsy, no uncontrolled diabetes, etc.).
- Adequate mental health and freedom from substance dependence.
- Physically capable of routine and emergency duties (mobility, balance, donning survival gear).
Note: This is the baseline most countries adopt. National authorities publish their own approved-doctor lists and the precise vision/hearing thresholds.
Important:this page is general guidance, not medical or official advice, and standards change. Always confirm the exact, current requirements with your country's maritime authority or an approved doctor before booking your examination or making career decisions.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a medical test to join the merchant navy?
Yes. A seafarer medical fitness certificate is mandatory worldwide under STCW and the ILO Maritime Labour Convention before you can join a ship. You cannot sign on without a valid one.
Are merchant navy medical requirements the same in every country?
The core standard is the same everywhere — STCW Regulation I/9 and the ILO/IMO medical guidelines. Countries differ mainly in the issuing authority, the list of approved doctors, and a few stricter national rules (for example India's deck-cadet eyesight and colour-vision standards).
What eyesight is required for deck versus engine roles?
Deck/navigational-watch roles require higher visual acuity and normal colour vision because of lookout and signal-recognition duties. Engine-department standards are more relaxed. Exact thresholds are set by your maritime authority.
Can I join with glasses or colour blindness?
Corrected vision (glasses/contacts) is usually acceptable within defined limits. Colour blindness can disqualify deck/navigational roles, but engine and some other departments may still be open — check your authority's standard.
How long is a seafarer medical certificate valid?
Up to 2 years for adults, and a maximum of 1 year for seafarers under 18. A certificate may be issued for a shorter period if a medical condition needs review.
Where do I take the merchant navy medical exam?
Only at a doctor or clinic approved by the relevant maritime authority — e.g. DG Shipping (India), the MCA Approved Doctor (UK), the USCG/National Maritime Center (USA), AMSA (Australia) or MARINA/DOH-accredited clinics (Philippines).