Chart Your Course: Maritime Pilotage Training in California
The Board of Pilot Commissioners (BOPC) licenses and regulates the mariners who guide vessels safely through the Bays of San Francisco, San Pablo, Suisun, and Monterey — some of the most dynamic and challenging waterways on the entire West Coast. If you have the experience, the skill, and the drive to excel, the Pilot Trainee Training Program could be the defining next chapter of your maritime career.
Next Pilot Trainee Training Examination
While the 2026 Pilot Trainee Training Examination cycle has closed, the opportunity isn’t gone — the BOPC anticipates launching the next examination cycle in late 2028 or 2029. Updates will be posted on the BOPC website as the next cycle approaches, so stay connected by checking our exam page from time to time.
What to Expect
This Pilot Trainee Training Program is rigorous, competitive, and built for the best. The multi-stage exam selection process is designed to identify candidates with the knowledge, technical skills, and professional judgment it takes to navigate California’s most demanding waterways. Candidates can generally expect:
- Knowledge-Based Test (KBT) — Assesses your maritime knowledge and technical expertise.
- Simulator Evaluation Exam (SEE)— Tests your vessel-handling skills in a dynamic, controlled environment.
- Interview — Candidates that pass both the KBT and SEE participate in an interview, interview scores are weighted and factor into the ranking of each successful candidate on the Eligibility List.
- Eligibility List — Successful Candidates earn placement on a Board-approved eligibility list and are admitted into the training program as the Board sees the need arise.
Qualifications
Candidates must meet sea service experience and recency requirements to qualify. Don’t wait — review the full eligibility requirements now in Title 7, California Code of Regulations § 213 and start positioning yourself for success.
For More Information
Questions
Pilot Trainee Training Examination inquiries: bopc_trainee_exam@bopc.ca.gov
General information: bopc@bopc.ca.gov
Website: www.bopc.ca.gov
Address: 660 Davis Street, San Francisco, CA 94111