(a) To qualify for an STCW endorsement in proficiency in fast rescue boats, an applicant must—

(1) Be not less than 18 years of age;

(2) Hold an endorsement in proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats (PSC) or in proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats other than lifeboats and fast rescue boats-limited (PSC-limited) under this subpart;

(3) Provide evidence of successful completion of a Coast Guard-approved or -accepted course; and

(4) Provide evidence of meeting the standard of competence specified in Table A-VI/2-2 of the STCW Code (incorporated by reference, see §12.103 of this part).

(b) Continued professional competence.

(1) Seafarers qualified in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section must provide evidence of maintaining the standard of competence as set out in Table A-VI/2-2 of the STCW Code every 5 years.

(2) The Coast Guard will accept onboard training and experience, through evidence of 1 year of sea service within the last 5 years, as meeting the requirements of paragraph (b)(1) of this section for the following areas, as set out in Table A-VI/2-2 of the STCW Code:

(i) Taking charge of a fast rescue boat during and after launch, including—

(A) Controlling safe launching, operating of the engine, and recovering a fast rescue boat;

(B) Handling a fast rescue boat in prevailing weather and sea conditions;

(C) Using communication and signaling equipment between the fast rescue boat and a helicopter and a ship;

(D) Using the emergency equipment carried; and

(E) Carrying out search patterns, taking account of environmental factors.

(ii) [Reserved]

(3) The Coast Guard will only accept evidence of assessments conducted ashore as meeting the requirements of paragraph (b)(1) of this section for the areas not included in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, as set out in Table A-VI/2-2 of the STCW Code.

(4) Applicants who cannot meet the requirement for 1 year of sea service within the last 5 years, as described in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, will be required to meet the requirements of paragraph (a)(3) of this section or complete approved or accepted refresher training.