How to change your Coast Guard Rating

If you are seriously considering changing your rating, your first step should be to do your homework. This means thoroughly checking out the rating(s) you are considering. You should consider the following:

• The ratio of ship to shore billets
• The work environment
• The possible duty station locations.
• The promotion possibilities
• And most importantly; will you enjoy the new job more than your present rating?

If after doing your home work you still want to change rates, then you next step is to contact either your Command Master Chief (Gold or Silver Badge), or your area Career Development Advisor (CDA). They will be able to help you through the process.

Your request must be approved through your chain of command, both your current rating Force Manager and the new rating Force Manager, both Detailers, and the Commander of the Office Of Enlisted Personnel Management (EPM).

Criteria for Approval:
In general terms the needs of the service will determine whether your request is granted or not. That means that EPM will look at your service record, the amount of time since you attended "A" school (2 years minimum), the current workforce situation (billet vacancies) in both ratings and your reason for requesting the change.

Tip: In most cases the reason for your request can make all the difference, so choose your words wisely.