Can I apply for a TWIC card if I have a criminal felony record?

A:

The good news is that, in many cases, you can.

Many legal offenses are considered “Interim Disqualifying Offenses” which allow an applicant to apply for a waiver. Now according to the TSA, these interim disqualifying offenses allow applicants to apply for a waiver if the conviction or guilty plea occurred within 7 years of the application or if he or she was released from prison within 5 years of the application.

Certain “Permanent Disqualifying Offenses” including murder, federal terrorism and espionage permanently disqualify an applicant from receiving a card.  

There are two options if you are initially ruled to be ineligible for a TWIC. You can file an Appeal if you disagree with the ruling because you believe it was based on incorrect information submitted at enrollment or incorrect court records. You can request a Waiver if you fall under some of the disqualifying offenses and you are advised to information supporting why you are no longer a security threat.

A maritime attorney can be an indispensable tool in your efforts to get your TWIC card. Navigating a complicated appeals process, by yourself, and without an experienced maritime attorney by your side is a bad idea.