Progression: Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) to Marine Engineer Officer Class IV
A certified Electro-Technical Officer with sea service as ETO completes a bridging course, the operational-level engine room simulator course and a period of onboard engineering training and watchkeeping recorded in a training record book, then sits the MEO Class IV examinations.
Official reference: DGMA (EAC-ENGG) Circular 50/2026
Where this route can take you
Who can apply
Each requirement is summarised from the official publication linked beside it.
Holds a valid ETO certificate of competency
DGS Circular 50 of 2026 ↗You hold a valid ETO certificate of competency.
Sea service as ETO
DGS Circular 50 of 2026 ↗At least 24 months at sea as ETO on ships of 750 kW or more.
Step by step
- 1
Bridging course (three months)
A three-month DGMA-approved bridging course from ETO to MEO Class IV.
DGS Circular 50 of 2026 ↗ - 2
Engine room simulator course (operational level)
The engine room simulator course (operational level) at an approved institute.
DGS Circular 50 of 2026 ↗ - 3
Onboard training and engine-room watchkeeping, in a TAR book
At least 9 months of onboard training and engine-room watchkeeping after the bridging course (6 in some cases), recorded in a TAR book, then the MEO Class IV examinations.
DGS Circular 50 of 2026 ↗
The rules behind this route
This page summarises the published rules of DGMA (the Directorate General of Maritime Administration, formerly DG Shipping) in plain language. Each requirement links to the official publication for the exact wording. Rules made under the old Merchant Shipping Act 1958 still apply under the Merchant Shipping Act 2025.