Get a Candidate Document Number

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)

1. Download a copy of the Candidate Document Number Application form

2. Complete the form as required

3. 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. Send an email to the closest Transport Canada Marine Safety Service Centre near you with your documentation. The list of email addresses can be found in the link to the Transport Canada Marine Safety Service Centre webpage.

     • 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

*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)