The PYA is authorized to issue Yacht Rating Certificates on behalf of the MCA.

Some vessels require crew to have a Yacht Rating Certificate as part of their safe manning requirements. Having this certificate can improve your chances of finding a job.

We accept digital applications! Simply email all required documentation to certificates@pya.org - read below for further details.

Fees

In the case of a seafarer joining the PYA as a full member, the YRC, if required at time of joining, will be included in their first year's membership fee. The charge is €40 to PYA other type members and €80 for non-PYA members.

Requirements

Be at least 16 years of age
Demonstrate at least 6 months of onboard service including 2 months of seagoing service, all of which must be on vessels of 15 metres and over in load line length
Have the Basic STWC training:
- Personal Survival Techniques (STCW Code Ref A-VI/1-1), or RYA Basic Sea Survival
- Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW Code Ref A-VI/1-2)
- Elementary First Aid (STCW Code Ref A-VI/1-3)
- Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (STCW Code Ref AVI/1-4)
Complete the Yacht Rating Training Record Book*

*You can be exempted from the TRB, and the requirement for 6 months’ onboard service may be reduced to 2 months’ seagoing service on vessels of at least 15 metres, if you hold one of the following:

Watch Leader Certificate, together with a Competent Crew certificate; or
Day Skipper Certificate together, with a Competent Crew certificate; or
Yacht Rating course completion certificate.

Documentation

You will need to submit to us the following - in person (originals) or by email (certified copies):

Yacht Rating Application form (filled in, signed and countersigned*)
Please do not make any payment through the MCA website*
Original or Certified copy of passport (by a training school or your Captain or Chief Officer with their CoC number included)
2 Passport-size photographs (if applying by email, 1 will suffice) - the back of the photo must be countersigned by the same person countersigning your application.
PYA D-SRB or Testimonials + Discharge Book / Discharge Certificate (Annex B) (if you don't have a D-SRB, two forms of proof are required). You may find MCA testimonial templates here. Annex A
Originals or Certified copies of your STCW Certificates
Original or Certified copy of valid medical fitness certificate, e.g. ENG 1
Yacht Rating Certificate Training Record Book (Annex B of MSN 1862) - not required if you have the certificates listed in par. 4B of the application form