Seafarer documentsEducation and sea service
Seaman's book (sea service record book)
SIRB · CDC
- Full entry
- Checked 6 October 2026
- Document type
- Document
- Validity
- As shown on the issued document
Contents4
1 What it covers
Seaman’s Book / Sea Service Record Book records service aboard vessels and sea-service history. It is needed by seafarers documenting experience and progressing to their next qualification. Validity: as shown on the issued document.1
2 Validity and renewal
Document validity. The expiry date, if the issuing system sets one, is shown on the document itself. This reference does not calculate personal expiry dates.
Maintaining competence. There is no single international validity period: the book holds records of service on board.1
3
May serve as the record of employment: Record of Employment on Board Ship MLC A2.12
4 Frequently asked questions
Who needs the Seaman’s Book / Sea Service Record Book?
Seafarers documenting experience and progressing to their next qualification.1
How long is the Seaman’s Book / Sea Service Record Book valid?
The expiry date, if the issuing system sets one, is shown on the document itself. This reference does not calculate personal expiry dates. There is no single international validity period: the book holds records of service on board.1
What else is the Seaman’s Book / Sea Service Record Book called?
Also known as Seaman's Book / Seaman's Record Book (SIRB/CDC), SIRB, CDC, Discharge Book.