Joining Us

	Introduction		Eligibility		Inquiry Form
	Benefits		Special Benefits to Young People

Introduction

The Auxiliary is a civilian organization of volunteers. Being an Auxiliarist will add a new dimension to your boating activities and enable you to share in the worthwhile experience of assisting boaters and saving lives, as well as being an important part of the U.S. Coast Guard.  It provides a means for you to help America and participate in Homeland Defense.

Eligibility

Membership is open to citizens of the United States and its territories and possessions, who are 17 years of age or older. Facility (radio station, boat or aircraft) ownership is desirable but not mandatory. Individuals with special training or experience in any Auxiliary program are encouraged to join. Membership is also open to all active duty or former members of any of the uniformed services and their reserve components. Contact your nearest Auxiliary unit.

Benefits

As an Auxiliarist, you have an opportunity to increase your knowledge of boating safety and acquire special training through advanced classes or by taking correspondence courses from the Coast Guard Institute. Instruction in navigation, meteorology, marine engines, communications, and search and rescue operations enhances your value to the Auxiliary while adding to your own boating pleasure.

The possibility of saving lives - even one human life -  will give you personal gratification while providing a valuable service to the boating public.

Dedication to boating safety provides you with an atmosphere for socialization, swapping boating experiences and participating in group outings, etc. You will  find a special fellowship among Auxiliarists that's hard to beat. There's time to relax and have fun at Auxiliary outings, rendezvous, cruises and conferences. Auxiliarists make lasting, meaningful friendships.

Operations

Safety patrols, regatta patrols, search and rescue, and Coast Guard support missions are part of the Operations mission. As a new member you could be trained to qualify as Boat Crew, Coxswain, Air Crew, radio communication watchstanders, work in Coast Guard offices and other Coast Guard mission areas. Our pilots and aircraft, working with our radio stations and boats,  provide complete operational support to the U.S. Coast Guard.

Public Education

The Auxiliary is noted for its public education courses which teach pleasure boaters safe boating principles, practices, and legal responsibilities. You could be trained to be an Instructor for any course that we offer - from Boats 'n Kids to Advanced Coastal Navigation. Click for more on classes.

Vessel Safety Check

The Vessel Safety Check program serves to encourage boaters, including  personal water craft (PWC), to carry proper safety equipment. You could be trained to become a Vessel Examiner and give boaters a personal mini-course in boating safety equipment while performing a vessel safety check.

Uniforms

You are entitled to wear a uniform similar to those worn by the Coast Guard, but with different markings (silver rather than gold, basically). There are many Auxiliary activities that require you to wear a uniform in order to participate, especially when you are dealing with the public. The minimum uniform is relatively inexpensive.

Dues

Naturally, there are dues to be paid. Each flotilla sets its own level, so contact the nearest Auxiliary unit to check it out.

Inquiry Form

Please use our e-form to ask to be contacted by the appropriate unit's membership staff officer.  There are no obligations with an inquiry.