Before getting any Canadian Maritime Document, a person must apply for a Candidate Document Number (CDN). A CDN is a unique number that groups your information in our database and helps with record keeping and document identification. Without a CDN, Transport Canada can’t process your application to issue a certificate, endorsement or related document to a seafarer.
Applicants for a CDN must complete the TCMSS form # 82-0701E – Application for a Candidate Document Number (CDN)
For a completed application, you must include:
- The completed “Application for a Candidate Document Number (CDN)” form
- Two (2) identity documents:
- Passport
- Seafarers’ Identity Document
- Canadian Maritime Document
- Permanent Resident Card
- Certificate of Indian Status
- Firearms Licence
- Old Age Security Card
- Federal, Provincial or Municipal Employee Identification Card
- Driver’s Licence
- Provincial Health Care Card
- Birth Certificate
- Work, Student, Visitor or Temporary Resident permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
- Naturalization Certificate
- Registration of Birth Abroad Certificate
- Certificate of Retention
- Citizenship Certificates
To Apply for a Candidate Document Number (CDN)
- Download a copy of the Candidate Document Number Application form
- Complete the form as required
- Submit the form
- In-person at the nearest Transport Canada Marine Safety Service Centre office
- Make sure to bring your identity documents
- Call or email the office to check whether you need to make an appointment or if the office offers walk-in services
- By email if you live in a remote area or can’t visit a Transport Canada Marine Safety Service Centre office
- Your documents must be certified by a guarantor* (see note below)
- You must present the original copies of your identity documents to the guarantor
- The guarantor must print their name, their function and practice number, and sign the photocopied identity documents
- In-person at the nearest Transport Canada Marine Safety Service Centre office
*Guarantors must work in one of the following professions:
- Judge
- Dentist
- Pharmacist
- Veterinarian
- Police officer
- Notary public
- Lawyer or notary
- Physician
- Dean or director of a university or college
- Signing officer:
- Of a bank or trust company
- Financial institutions that offer a full range of banking services (cash withdrawals, deposits, and savings)