Captain's License Prep Independent field guide

CHART 09 · U.S. WATERS
UPDATED 2026-07-22

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State charter-license map

Quick answer

Do I need a state license if I already have a USCG captain's license?

Usually yes. The federal captain's license lets you operate for hire, but most states also require a state charter or guide license, and if you take anglers for certain species in federal waters you need a federal fishery permit on top. The federal credential is necessary but not sufficient. This map lays out the stack state by state.

We publish a state only after its licenses, permits, fees, and reporting duties are verified against that state's agency and the relevant federal source. Florida is the first verified state; more are added as each is confirmed, never as thin stubs.