? Seafarer Medical Exam – A Complete Guide for Maritime Professionals
If you're planning to work at sea — whether as a deck cadet, marine engineer, or any role on a merchant vessel — passing the Seafarer Medical Exam is a mandatory first step. This medical certification ensures you are physically and mentally fit to handle life at sea, which often involves long hours, isolation, and physically demanding work.
Let’s dive into the details of what this exam includes, where to get it, and how to prepare.
?? What is the Seafarer Medical Exam?
The Seafarer Medical Examination is a medical fitness test conducted under the standards set by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), India and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
It is conducted by DG Shipping-approved medical examiners and is mandatory for:
?? Purpose of the Exam
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To ensure the candidate is fit for duty at sea
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To minimize medical emergencies on board ships
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To confirm the candidate meets the minimum health standards as per STCW and MLC 2006
?? What's Included in the Seafarer Medical Exam?
The exam covers a wide range of physical and psychological parameters:
? General Physical Exam
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Height, weight, BMI
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Blood pressure
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Pulse rate
?????? Vision & Color Test
?? Hearing Test
?? Cardiac and Respiratory
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Chest examination
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ECG in some cases
?? Lab Tests
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Blood (CBC, sugar, liver/kidney profile)
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Urine (routine and microscopy)
?? Imaging
?? Psychological & Mental Health Assessment
?? Where to Get the Exam Done?
You can only take the Seafarer Medical Exam at DG Shipping-approved medical centers or doctors.
?? Visit the DG Shipping website to find the list of empanelled medical examiners in your region.
Popular locations: Mumbai, Kochi, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Goa, Vizag, etc.
??? Validity of Seafarer Medical Certificate
?? Documents Required
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Aadhar card or passport (ID proof)
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Passport-size photos
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Previous medical records (if any)
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Payment receipt (if booked online)
?? Medical Exam Cost (India)
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Cost may vary by city and doctor
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Typical range: ?1,000 – ?2,500
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Some centers may include the eye and hearing test separately
?? Important Tips
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Do not hide any medical history (e.g., epilepsy, diabetes, mental health)
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Color blindness disqualifies candidates for deck side roles
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Get adequate sleep and avoid caffeine or heavy food before the test
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Wear your glasses or lenses (if applicable)
?? Re-Medical / Unfit Cases
If declared temporarily unfit, you may undergo treatment and reappear after the required recovery period.
If permanently unfit, you may not be allowed to pursue a career at sea.
? Final Thoughts
The Seafarer Medical Exam is not difficult to pass if you're in reasonably good health. However, it’s crucial to be honest, well-prepared, and go to an approved medical examiner. It’s the first and essential step toward a rewarding maritime career.
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