Alabama § 33-4A-20 - Branching or Licensing Criteria.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 33-4A-20 — Branching or Licensing Criteria., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 33-4A-20. Branching or Licensing Criteria.
To be eligible to be branched or licensed as the next bar pilot, a person shall meet all of the following criteria at the time of branching or licensing:
(1) The person shall be the senior apprentice, with seniority to be determined by date of satisfactory completion of all of the following requirements to be a bar pilot except the written examination given by the commission.
(2) The person shall be a citizen of the United States of America or legally present in this state.
(3) The person shall be of good moral character.
(4) The person shall have completed satisfactorily all requirements of the apprenticeship.
(5) The person shall be a graduate of a four-year college or university accredited by a regional accrediting organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or have a bachelor of science degree from a nationally recognized maritime academy.
(6) The person shall hold and have the following current United States Coast Guard licenses and experience:
a. Either of the following:
1. An unlimited second mate of oceans license with at least one year’s experience as second mate.
2. A master license of freight or motor vessel of 1,600 gross tons with one year’s experience as master of vessels of at least 150 gross tons.
b. Either of the following:
1. Three years’ experience in a deck department capacity on one or more vessels navigating the Mobile ship channel.
2. Three years’ experience at sea in a deck department capacity on oceangoing vessels of 1,600 gross tons or over.
c. A first class federal pilot license for the Mobile and Theodore ship channels.
(7) The person shall have been employed in a deck department capacity on steam or motor vessels navigating either inland waters or oceans for a majority of the last five years.
(8) The person shall demonstrate, if required by the commission to do so, sufficient evidence of satisfactory experience in the safe navigation and handling of vessels, successful completion of a training program officially recognized by the State Pilotage Commission and bar pilots.
(9) The person shall pass a written test administered by the commission.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 33-4A-20
What does Code of Alabama § 33-4A-20 cover?
Section 33-4A-20 ("Branching or Licensing Criteria.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 33-4A-20?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 33-4A-20" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 33-4A-20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.