How to become a river pilot?

To start your career as a river pilot, also called a riverboat pilot, you may need a bachelor's degree in maritime transportation. You must then complete a three-year apprenticeship on the type of boat you would like to operate. During your apprenticeship, you must be quartermaster or working on the deck for at least 18 months, and you need a minimum of one year of experience in the waterways in which you wish to pilot. After completing your apprenticeship, you need to earn official qualifications from the United States Coast Guard National Maritime Center (USCG NMC). You need to pass the NMC’s written exam to demonstrate your understanding of the duties and responsibilities of being a riverboat pilot to get your first-class pilot license.