Crewing

The Liberian Maritime Law does not require any particular nationality for manning Liberian flag vessels.  Crew can be of different nationalities and this flexibility allows the ship owner to acquire qualified crew from anywhere in the world.

Basic manning standards for the safe operation of the vessel are determined by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, based on the type and size of the vessel. Certificates of Competency are issued by the Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs, and temporary waivers may be authorized by the Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner in certain instances. All officers serving onboard Liberian ships must hold Liberian Licenses of Competence in accordance with STCW as amended. Licenses and Seaman's Identification and Record Books are issued from LISCR's Vienna, Virginia office. All seafarers must have a Liberian Seaman's Identification and Record Book, which serves as a record of sea service and qualification. An examination system is also available as part of Liberian Registry’s competency assessment for seafarers that do not possess national certifications from an IMO “White-listed” country.