In 2021 the ADB certificate (amateur seafaring certificate) is the license required for individuals who will operate certain types of vessels for non-commercial purposes. Use of this certificate on commercial vessels results in penalties: a fine for the first offense and suspension of the certificate for two years on the second offense. The ADB certificate itself does not have a fixed expiration period.
What Is the ADB Certificate for?
ADB stands for “amateur seafarer certificate.” It is the license issued to individuals who have the skills and training to operate specified vessels safely and securely for recreational or private use. Individuals must hold this certificate to operate their own boats or rented vessels during holidays and leisure activities.
Which Vessels Can Be Operated with an ADB Certificate?
Holders of the amateur seafarer certificate may operate the following vessels without restriction:
- Vessels longer than 2.5 meters and shorter than 24 meters.
- Boats used for hobby, entertainment, or water sports, provided the use is not commercial.
- Vessels owned by individuals but operated by clubs or associations whose purpose is water sports may be used by certificate holders.
- If a boat registered in the mooring registry has a private vessel license, it may also be operated by someone with an ADB certificate.
How to Apply for an ADB Certificate?
To obtain the ADB certificate you must register in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure’s Amateur Maritime Training System. Registration is done through the online portal. From the training page, select the option to start the course to become eligible for the exam.
Clicking the start training button redirects you to the e-Government system for identity verification. After granting the relevant authority access to your identity and address information, complete the required fields to register for the exam.
Before sitting the exam, candidates must complete the theoretical and video lessons available on the site. Upon successful completion of the course, a certificate is issued. Print this certificate and note the certificate number displayed on it.
After the exam entrance document is issued and other documents are prepared, you must obtain a medical report. Only reports issued by institutions authorized by the ministry are accepted. Applicants undergo eye and ear examinations as part of the medical check.
If the medical report states that the applicant is fit to receive the amateur seafarer certificate, they may proceed to the exam. Candidates must pay the exam fee and upload the required documents to the Seafarers Exam System portal. Selecting an exam hall and session completes the application process.
Must ADB Certificate Applications Be Submitted in Person?
Applicants must personally carry out their ADB certificate application. They should contact their nearest port authority to complete the application process. Exams are administered by the port authorities.
Is There a Fee for the Medical Report?
The medical report required for the ADB certificate is not free. The cost varies by hospital and city, typically ranging between approximately 75 TL and 150 TL.
How Long Is the Medical Report Valid?
The medical report for the amateur seafarer certificate has a validity period of four months. If the applicant does not obtain the ADB certificate within four months of the medical report date, the report expires and must be renewed.
How Is the Exam Fee Paid?
Candidates must deposit the exam fee at an authorized bank and keep the payment receipt. First, generate a payment code for the exam, then transfer the required amount to the bank.
To pay the exam fee online, access the payment portal and select the individual user option, then log in using your e-Government credentials. Identity verification requires your national ID number and e-Government password. If you do not have an e-Government password, it can be obtained from PTT branches for a small fee.
After verification, choose the “Maritime General Directorate Revenue Items” menu and select “Exam and Exam Objection Fees.” Enter your name, the document for which the fee will be paid, and any notes, then click calculate. Select the amateur seafarer exam fee to generate the charge, and then complete the payment.
Which Bank Should ADB Fees Be Paid To?
Exam fees for the amateur seafarer certificate should be paid to Ziraat Bankasi. The fee for the physical certificate card, once the applicant is eligible, is paid to Halkbank.
What Documents Are Required for the ADB Certificate?
Required documents for applying for the amateur seafarer certificate include:
- Exam participation document.
- Amateur seafarer medical report.
- Receipt proving payment of the exam fee.
- One passport-size photograph.
- Copy of driver’s license if available. Applicants without a driver’s license must obtain a medical report from a public or private health institution confirming they are fit to be a driver candidate.
- Copy of an identity document that includes the national ID number, such as a driver’s license, passport, or temporary ID card.
- If the applicant is under 18, a parental or guardian consent form is required.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements?
Eligibility criteria for the amateur seafarer certificate are:
- Applicants must be at least 14 years old.
- Citizens of the Republic of Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus may apply. Foreign nationals with residence permits in Turkey are also eligible.
- A minimum education level of primary school is required.
- Applicants must have a clean criminal record.
- The applicant’s health must meet the requirements for holding the ADB certificate.
What Score Is Needed to Pass the Exam?
The exam consists of 50 questions with a 60-minute time limit. Candidates must answer at least 30 questions correctly to pass. A minimum score of 60 points is required to be awarded the amateur seafarer certificate.
What Are Typical Costs to Obtain an ADB Certificate?
Typical expenses during the ADB certificate process include:
- Approximately 100 TL for the medical report on average.
- An exam fee of around 100 TL.
- A card issuance fee of 32 TL for those who pass the exam.
- Transportation and accommodation costs are the responsibility of the applicant.
- Overall, applicants typically spend around 250 TL to obtain the ADB certificate.