A Candidate Document Number (CDN) is a unique number given to an individual by Transport Canada to assist with record keeping and document identification. This will be a requirement prior to your Seafarers Medical Examination and important if you are working towards a certain Certificate of Competency. The CDN can only be obtained from Transport Canada Marine Safety office.

FAQs Archive - Western Maritime Institute

Q: How do I challenge a course?

Challenging a course needs to be booked and completed at a Transport Canada office. Please contact your nearest office to book a time and confirm what pre-requisites they may need prior to your exam.

Q: What is a Seafarers Medical?

This is a basic medical exam conducted by a Transport Canada approved doctors to ensure you are fit for duties at sea. This assessment includes but is not limited to, testing eyesight, colour perception and hearing. The Seafarer Medical Examination is a prerequisite to beginning your Bridge Watch Rating course. You can find a doctor closest to you by clicking here .

Q: Where do I sit my Transport Canada exam or orals?

There are three offices in B.C., one in Prince Rupert, Victoria and Vancouver. Each office may have a different schedule for their exams. Please call Transport Canada to set up time to take exams.

Q: How long is two months of sea time?

According to Transport Canada, two months of sea time is equivalent to 60, 8-hour days or 40, 12-hour days, for a total of 480 hours.

Q: How do I apply for sea time?

You can find all the Transport Canada sea time forms on this page .

Q: What happens if I have not registered for a course and it fills up?

Our Admissions Office does have a wait-list that you can request your name be added to. If a seat becomes available, you will be contacted either by phone or email.