DRAFT, needs technical review. Not for publication. The title is our own wording, not the official Paris MoU text.
PSC deficiency code 01201: Valid certificates for master and officers
| Category | Certificates and manning (STCW) |
| Related certificate | STCW certificates |
| Main references | STCW Reg. I/2, I/10 (recognition and endorsement); dispensation only by the Administration (STCW Art. VIII) |
| Typical action codes | 17 (rectify before departure), 30 (detainable) if serious |
| Commonly detainable? | Can be, depending on severity (no statistics claimed) |
What PSC officers look for
- CoC or endorsement expired or missing
- GMDSS qualification not matching assigned duties
- Tanker endorsements missing on chemical/product ship
- Flag endorsement not yet issued
- Watch schedule shows officer in charge of a watch without valid certificate
Typical root causes
- Promotion on board without shore approval
- Endorsement delay after flag change
- Incomplete audit of agency documentation
- Assumption electronic registry check is enough
Corrective action (example)
Restore compliant certification or adjust watchkeeping; obtain flag endorsements; any dispensation only under STCW Art. VIII by the Administration.
Preventive action (example)
Pre-join matrix by ship type; master holds checklist for every joiner.
Evidence to attach for close-out
- Certificate copies
- Flag endorsement
- Revised watch schedule
- Flag dispensation under STCW Art. VIII if any
Related
Generate a close-out report for this finding · Download the CAP template
Official code list: Paris MoU, List of Deficiency Codes (1 July 2026). Action codes: Paris MoU, Inspection outcome. Reviewed by: _pending_ · Review date: _pending_ This page is general guidance, not legal, flag or class advice. Always follow the PSC officer's instructions and your flag and class requirements.