DP Revalidation Updated!

An updated Dynamic Positioning (DP) training course is now available at STAR Center, marking an important update to the organization’s training and certification program. The updated DP Revalidation course replaces the previous DP Revalidation/Refresher and Competency Assessment course.

This change follows updates introduced in the 2026 Certification and Accreditation Standard – Volume 1: Training and Certification (February 2026). Under the new standard, the previously separate DP Refresher and DP Revalidation courses have been consolidated into a single DP Revalidation course. With the release of the updated standards, the new DP Revalidation course aligns training with the latest certification requirements. The consolidation of training requirements means there is now one course and one certificate for revalidation and refresher, simplifying both enrollment and certification processes.

In addition, the 2026 standard has removed Annexes G and M, which previously addressed DP Refresher and Competency Assessment courses. These updates further streamline the DP training framework and reflect the industry’s move toward a more unified certification pathway. This update ensures the organization remains fully aligned with the 2026 certification standards while simplifying training administration and maintaining high professional competency for DP operators.

This course is designed for the DPO who:

  • Has accumulated less than 150 DP sea time days within the validity period of the NI issued DPO certificate, OR
  • The DPO who has accumulated a minimum 150 days of DP sea time within the validity period of the NI issued DPO certificate but elects to complete the DP Revalidation Course in lieu of completing the continuing professional development (CPD) program and the DP Revalidation online exam.

If the participant is completing the course for the first time, there is no minimum DP sea time requirement. Where a participant is undertaking the DP Revalidation Course for a second or subsequent time, a minimum of 28 DP sea time days is required for revalidation. This sea time may be accrued either before or after completion of the DP Revalidation Course; however, the sea time must have been gained within the validity period of the NI issued DPO certificate.

Annex K is still in effect for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Revalidation of the Nautical Institute DP Operator Certificate and DPVM Certificates. Pathways to revalidation of NI DP Operator Certificate and DPVM Certificate.

Deck officers:

A. To revalidate DP Certificate, in addition to the 150 DP days of sea time or equivalent, DPO’s will need to:

  • Pass The NI Revalidation online exam and Complete The NI-approved Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Program

OR

  • Complete The NI DP Revalidation Course. The Revalidation course may be completed up to twelve months before the revalidation date set by The NI.

B. If the DPO has less than 150 days or no DP sea-time, within a period of five years, they must complete the DP Revalidation Course. When revalidating using the Revalidation Course for a second or subsequent time, the DPO must follow the rules as per the standard with respect to sea time requirements. The Revalidation Course may be completed up to twelve months before the revalidation date set by The NI. The course will be valid for a period of 12 months only, in which time the DPO must apply to The NI for certificate revalidation.

2026 - A DPO who is applying for revalidation will have to sit The NI Revalidation online exam and complete a minimum ofthree years of The NI approved CPD program or complete The NI Revalidation Course.

2027 - A DPO who is applying for revalidation will have to sit The NI Revalidation online exam and complete a minimum of four years of The NI approved CPD program or complete The NI Revalidation Course.

2028 - A DPO who is applying for revalidation will have to sit The NI Revalidation online exam and complete a minimum of five years of The NI approved CPD program or complete The NI Revalidation Course.

Those who do not meet all the new requirements in 2026 through 2028 will receive a twelve-month indemnity letter once they have submitted and paid for their online application.

2029 - A DPO who is applying for revalidation will have to sit The NI Revalidation online exam and complete a minimum of five years of The NI approved CPD program or complete The NI Revalidation Course. From 1 January 2029, applicants will receive the standard 3-month indemnity letter once they have submitted and paid for their online application.

Any questions related to this course and NI DPO requirements should be directed to Snow Kausland, Head, Curriculum Development via email or at 800-942-3220 Ext. 7704.