Warriors 4 Safety: What is TWIC and how does it Work?
What does TWIC stand for?
It stands for Transportation Worker Identification Credential. The TWIC is an identification card for all personnel requiring unescorted access to secure areas of Marine Transit Security Act regulated facilities and vessels.
Who has to apply for a TWIC card? All workers who require unescorted access to secured areas of ports, vessels, or outer continental shelf facilities as part of their work. In addition, all credentialed merchant mariners will be required to hold a TWIC.
How long do I have to apply for TWIC? The original deadline of January 1, 2009 was moved back to make sure all ports had TWIC enrollment centers available and that there would be adequate time for all workers to receive the credential before the deadline. All workers who require the credential must now enroll in the program no later than April 15, 2009. TWICs are currently (June 2008) being issued. To see if your local TWIC enrollment center is open, visit TWIC Port Enrollment Schedule
Where do I go to apply for a TWIC card? Each port will have its own center for enrollment. Visit the list of TWIC Port Enrollment Centers to find out if your port’s center is open yet and the address and hours of operation when you can come in to apply.
What documents will I need to apply? A current U.S. or foreign passport or permanent resident card, an unexpired Free and Secure Trade card or Merchant Mariner Document, or an Alien Registration Receipt card with photograph can stand alone. A combination of other forms of ID can also be used. For a complete list of acceptable documents visit TWIC Approved Identify Documents
What is the deadline for TWIC? The final deadline is April 15, 2009. It is the responsibility of your employer to notify you that you will need a TWIC for your position and to give you sufficient advance notice to secure the credential.
Who pays for the TWIC cards? Either employers or employees may pay for the cards, depending on the individual employment situation.
What disqualifies you from receiving a TWIC card? Some types of criminal history, terrorist watch list status, or certain immigration status types may present a problem. For more information visit disqualifying crimes for the TWIC and what immigration categories are eligible to apply for a TWIC? In some cases it is possible to apply for a waiver or appeal if the TWIC is denied.
How long will it take for me to receive my credential? Currently the Transportation Security Administration is recommending you allow 6 to 8 weeks for issuance.
How do I get more information about TWIC? For more information visit the Transportation Security Administration TWIC information page or the TWIC homepage.