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Be A San Francisco Bar Pilot: Pilot Trainee Training Program

published on 15 March 2022 - 304 -

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The Board of Pilot Commissioners administers a maritime pilot training program. Graduates of the program become Board-licensed maritime pilots. Entrance into the program is via a selection examination.

Before submitting an application: The minimum requirements for entrance into the Pilot Trainee Training Program, are outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 7, Subsection 213. The Board has initiated regulatory changes that will put in place new minimum experience qualifications to qualify for the exam. These will include allowing Chief Mate experience, piloting in other jurisdictions, and lower tug tonnage requirements. These rule changes can be found here. Applicants who do not meet the minimum qualifications will not be admitted to the examination.

2022 Pilot Trainee Training Program Selection Examination

The next Pilot Trainee Training Program Selection Examination will be held in June 2022 at the California State University Maritime Academy (Cal Maritime) in Vallejo, California.

2022 Exam Application
Trainee-Applicant-Handbook-2022
BOPC Exam Press Release 2022
FAQ – How to become a pilot trainee – Frequently asked questions
2019 Trainee Written Exam Reference List (this will be updated when written exam is finalized)
2019 Trainee Exam Simulator Orientation Video

San Francisco Bar Pilots

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Video Japan Federation of Pilots' Associations (partly animated)

published on 23 June 2021

This is a video designed to educate people about pilots and their work. It consists of an animated version and a live action version.

Video A day in the life of a PLA Pilot (London): 20 August 2025

published on 9 December 2025

A day in the life of a PLA Pilot and the team effort it takes to get the job done

Video Boarding via Tug Boat - Is this safe?!

published on 22 July 2022

Video Tyne Pilot Boat Collingwood

published on 5 March 2025

Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the vital work of the Port of Tyne pilot boat crew aboard Collingwood! From sunrise to sunset, these skilled mariners navigate the River Tyne and the North Sea, ensuring the safe passage of massive cargo ships, tankers, and ferries.
Watch as the crew battles the elements, transfers pilots onto moving vessels, and keeps the busy shipping lane running smoothly. This is a rare glimpse into the teamwork, precision, and dedication required to guide ships...

Video Pilot Vessel "DELTA CHARLIE", Rio de la Plata

published on 5 April 2020

Pilot Vessel "DELTA CHARLIE" Arriving at #Recalada #BoardingStation #KM239,1 #PuntaIndioChannel #RioDeLaPlata #Argentina This video shows the moment when the Pilot Vessel "DELTA CHARLIE" was arriving at #BoardingPoint #Recalada to embark the Rio de la Plata #Pilots. You can watch the full video by clicking on the following Link: / Puedes ver el video apretando en el siguiente Link: https://youtu.be/dCEQcDkgsj8 Special appreciation to the Master of the unknown Ship, his Officers and the...

Article AMSA: Safe pilot transfer arrangements vital for safe operations

published on 14 September 2022

This Marine Notice reminds shipowners, operators, masters, crews, recognised organisations, marine pilots and pilotage providers of the obligation to provide safe pilot transfer arrangements.

Article AIMPA Journal- February 2021 issue VIII

by AIMPA - All India Marine Pilots' Association - published on 17 February 2021

The All India Maritime Pilots' Association has released its new journal for February

Video Lynx Pilot Boat offered by SC Chambers - NEW VIDEO

published on 28 December 2021

NEW VIDEO off the Lynx Pilot Boat

Video Webcam Duluth Harbor

published on 28 October 2020

Live Stream for Duluthharborcam.com

Video Riding with the Savannah Pilots

published on 25 October 2020

Over the course of 4 days this August, I was afforded the opportunity and privilege of riding with the Savannah Bar Pilots for an article I was writing for a major maritime magazine. The pilots are given the responsibility of boarding a vessel in the Atlantic Ocean and safely navigating the vessel up the Tybee Road 9 (a name for the shipping lane that leads into the Savannah River), into the Savannah River, and into the Port of Savannah. The same is done in reverse when a ship is outbound...