Join M.E.B.A.

Six steps. That's it.

Joining America's oldest maritime union is straightforward. Download the application, gather your documents, bring $150 to your nearest hall. We'll take it from there.

Download Application Find Your Nearest Hall

Six steps to membership

Complete the application form

Fill out the official M.E.B.A. membership application for your unit (Deep Sea, Government Fleet, or other bargaining unit).

Download Application

Get it notarized

Have your application notarized. This gives the union limited power of attorney to take your initiation fee from your vacation. Most banks, shipping halls, and local offices offer notary services at little or no cost.

Gather your Coast Guard documents

Bring all valid Coast Guard documents (license, endorsements, medical certificate, TWIC card) and a current 719K physical completed within the last year.

Prepare your first dues payment

First quarterly dues: $150.00. Check or cash. Make checks payable to M.E.B.A.

Visit your nearest hall

Bring your notarized application, Coast Guard documents, physical, and dues payment to the nearest M.E.B.A. hall. Staff will review your paperwork and register you for a shipping card.

Find Your Nearest Hall

✓

Start your career with M.E.B.A.

Once approved, you're in. Access to union contracts, job opportunities, and after 30 days of employment, full benefits and training.

Application packets

Download your application.

Choose the packet that matches the unit you're applying to.

PDF

Deep Sea

Application packet for deep sea unit membership.

Download

PDF

Government Fleet

Application packet for government fleet unit membership.

Download

PDF

Other Units

Contact your nearest hall for application packets for other bargaining units.

Find a Hall

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Everything you need to know before you walk into a hall.

Who can join M.E.B.A.?

M.E.B.A. represents licensed marine engineers and deck officers working across the U.S. merchant fleet. You need valid Coast Guard documents and licensing to apply.

What does it cost to join?

First quarterly dues are $150.00 by check or cash. The initiation fee can be taken from your vacation pay via the notarized application.

How quickly do benefits start?

After 30 days of covered employment, you gain access to full benefits including medical, dental, training, and pension accrual.

What is the shipping card?

When your application is processed, the dispatcher registers you for a shipping card. This card tracks your seniority in the shipping process and determines your priority for job assignments.

I'm a cadet. How do I apply?

The Calhoon M.E.B.A. Engineering School offers a Cadet Career Program. Visit the school's website for details and application information. You can also read the letter from M.E.B.A. President Adam Vokac to cadets.

What if my workplace isn't unionized?

If you're interested in organizing your workplace with M.E.B.A., contact us. We can walk you through the process confidentially.

Contact / Find a hall

Find a hall

Find your nearest hall

Bring your application, documents, and payment to any M.E.B.A. location. Our staff will walk you through the rest.

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Get in touch

Questions? Get in touch.

Not sure where to start? Contact us and we'll connect you with a representative who can help.

(202) 638-5355

M.E.B.A. Headquarters, Washington, D.C.