Union Patent – Compact Course

Aim

The shared goal is to successfully deliver a compact yet practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS exams, laying the foundation for career progression into the management level.

Description

With the implementation of EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, several changes came into force on 18 January 2022. At the same time, the Inland Navigation Crew Regulation (BinSchPersV) aligned the qualification standards—i.e., exam content and exam structure—with European standards.

It is not enough to steer an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; shipmasters are expected to operate inland vessels safely as a whole. The size of the vessel is of secondary importance. Responsible vessel operation means making all nautical and technical decisions with a view to safe transport of goods on European waterways and/or the carriage of passengers. Understanding and complying with national and international regulations is essential in order to take the necessary precautions for route planning. Relevant national and international legal sources must be observed.

The high requirements placed on the crew demand that the management level consciously assumes overall responsibility. Managing day-to-day operations on board—whether in cargo, passenger, push-tow operations, or ferry service—is therefore a given. Casualties of any kind must be avoided at all times. Solid training and thorough preparation to take on this overall responsibility are indispensable.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for cancellation policies.

Content

• General regulations for navigating inland waterways
• Special regulations for the use of waterways
• Obtaining nautical information for voyage planning
• Crew requirements in accordance with the relevant manning regulations
• Communication procedures during manoeuvring operations
• Manoeuvring and steering a vessel
• Occupational safety and health protection
• Exam preparation (theory/practice)

Further information

Registering for the course does not automatically register you for the patent exam with the General Directorate for Waterways and Shipping (GDWS). Please make sure you register in good time for the patent exam with a GDWS office of your choice.

To take the exam, you must meet the following requirements:

• Proof of service time as a member of a deck crew
• Physical/mental fitness as a vessel operator
• A valid VHF radiotelephony certificate
• Minimum age: 18 years

The exam fees and the issuance fee for the patent card must be paid to the GDWS. These fees are not included in the course price.

Detailed information is published on the ELWIS website. The registration deadline for the patent exam is five weeks before the exam date.

Examination dates