OUPV / 6-Pack Exam Prep

Sample OUPV / 6-Pack questions

1. 1. 72 COLREGS apply to vessels upon which waters?

   • A.All vessels on the high seas and connected navigable waters✓
   • B.Only vessels on the high seas beyond 12 nautical miles
   • C.Only vessels in international waters beyond 3 nautical miles
   • D.All vessels on the high seas and in U.S. inland waters

   Why: Rule 1(a) states the rules apply on the high seas and in all waters connected therewith navigable by seagoing vessels. This broad application covers coastal, port, and offshore waters unless a nation has established special inland rules for specific waters.

2. 2. A vessel departs a known position at 0800 on course 090°T at 12 knots. What is the DR position at 1100?

   • A.36 nautical miles east of the departure point✓
   • B.24 nautical miles east of the departure point
   • C.48 nautical miles east of the departure point
   • D.36 nautical miles west of the departure point

   Why: Time elapsed = 1100 - 0800 = 3 hours. Distance = Speed × Time = 12 × 3 = 36 nm. Course 090°T is due east, so the DR position is 36 nm east of departure.

3. 3. A Class A fire involves which type of combustible material?

   • A.Ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth✓
   • B.Flammable liquids such as gasoline and oil
   • C.Energized electrical equipment
   • D.Combustible metals such as magnesium and titanium

   Why: Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, and rubber. These fires leave ash after burning, which is the basis for the letter 'A' designation.

4. 4. Standard atmospheric pressure at sea level is approximately:

   • A.1013 millibars (29.92 inches of mercury)✓
   • B.850 millibars (25.10 inches of mercury)
   • C.1100 millibars (33.00 inches of mercury)
   • D.760 millibars (22.40 inches of mercury)

   Why: Standard sea-level pressure is 1013.25 mb, equal to 29.92 inches of mercury or 14.7 psi. Readings are compared against this value; well below it indicates a low-pressure system.

5. 5. What does the OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) credential authorize?

   • A.Operating an uninspected vessel carrying no more than six passengers, at least one of whom is carried for hire✓
   • B.Operating any inspected small passenger vessel up to 100 gross tons
   • C.Operating a vessel carrying up to twelve passengers on near-coastal routes
   • D.Operating a towing vessel of unlimited horsepower

   Why: The OUPV — commonly called the 'six-pack' — lets the holder carry up to six passengers (with at least one for hire) on an uninspected vessel. Carrying seven or more passengers, or operating an inspected vessel, requires a Master's license and a vessel with a Certificate of Inspection.