Join US

What is the Auxiliary

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and law enforcement actions.

The Coast Guard’s philosophy is to be "SEMPER PARATUS" (ALWAYS READY) against all threats and all hazards. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of that philosophy and the Coast Guard Forces.

We conduct safety patrols on local waterways, assist the Coast Guard with homeland security duties, teach boating safety classes, conduct free vessel safety checks for the public, as well as many other activities.

The Auxiliary has members in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands,American Samoa, and Guam.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 17 years old, and pass a basic background check. There are no upper age limits or height/weight standards, although for operational activities, you must be physically able to perform certain tasks. There are no minimum service hours – you can serve as little or as much as you want.

Finally, the Auxiliary supports its members through local unit meetings, regional conferences and enjoys heartfelt fellowship with each other.

What can you do

Chart your own course for the future

As a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, you will be able to choose from many exciting opportunities for service. You can be challenged to learn, train and excel in areas and at levels you didn't’t think you were capable of, all at your own pace and in your own time. And you will be formally recognized by the Auxiliary, the USCG and our country for your accomplishments. Help save lives––Through boating safety instruction in the classroom, through Vessel Safety Checks, or in on-the water operations. Your direct contribution to boating public safety can, and often does, literally save lives.

Increase your skills––Take advantage of advanced training in surface operations, leadership, or one of the many courses available through the Auxiliary and Coast Guard. As a member of the Auxiliary, there are no fees for these courses.

You can learn or greatly enhance your boating skills. Once qualified, you can use your own boat if you have one and help train new crews and members of the future.

You can leverage your existing talents, skills and experience to gain new positions and qualifications as you progress in the Auxiliary. Support the Coast Guard–– Become qualified to serve at Coast Guard units in radio watch standing, marine environmental protection, Homeland Security, and other operational and administrative support.

Fun and fellowship–– Enjoy the company of fellow Auxiliary during training missions, at meetings, or social events. We enjoy our work and we enjoy each other’s company!

Sharpen your leadership skills - Bring your leadership skills to the Coast Guard Auxiliary, or let us teach you how to be a great leader.To learn more about the many opportunities offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Why Should you join

Are you looking for adventure while serving your country and your community?

If you are looking for some adventure in your life, consider joining the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Wherever your interests lie, and whatever life skills you have, chances are that the Coast Guard Auxiliary can offer you an area to serve that will enrich your life in ways you may not have imagined. The Auxiliary offers you a unique opportunity to make a real difference in your local community and across the country.

We welcome and recognize your past experience, skills and talent. We challenge you to have fun learning new skills and qualifications in company with a very special group of volunteers.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a number of opportunities, but the tasks can generally be divided into three service areas:

Operations and Marine Safety

For those interested in boating, the Auxiliary offers a rigorous level of hands-on training and qualification as boat-crew and coxswain. Qualified Auxiliary perform regular safety patrol missions in their local area and support local boating activities on-the-water such as regattas, fireworks & fleet visits.

The Auxiliary needs people with leadership, administrative and technical skills (such as web site design, computer server administration, graphic design, photography, videography, communications, public relations/public affairs, instruction and instructional design, and personnel services) to support those Auxiliaries involved in the recreational boating safety and operations & marine safety missions.

Learn More

The Auxiliarists and Coast Guard maintain a large number of web sites that describe our programs and local activities. You are also welcome to visit you local Flotillas.

The USCG site is a great place to learn about the overall mission of the U.S. Coast Guard.