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Completing Membership

When you first join the Auxiliary, you begin in Application Pending (AP) status. To complete your initial requirements, focus on the Basic Qualification Course II (BQII), Core Training classes, and an approved Boating Safety Education course. Think of this as your "onboarding" phase—essential training to prepare you for full participation. Your Flotilla Staff Officer for Member Training (FSO-MT) or Mentor (see below) can help you access the resources needed. Once completed, you’ll attain either Initially Qualified (IQ) or Basically Qualified (BQ) (with a safe boating course) status, ready to pursue your interests and suggested assignments. 

Auxiliary Organization

The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the U.S. Coast Guard, organized similarly to the active-duty service—but without a military chain of command (click here for the Auxiliary’s structure). Instead, the Auxiliary follows a Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) that defines communication and responsibility across levels. Use the New Member Handbook to learn about our organization's structure, policies, protocols, and member benefits, activities, and opportunities. Reach out to your Flotilla Commander (FC), Flotilla Vice Commander (VFC),  Flotilla Staff Officer for Member Training (FSO-MT), or new member mentor if assigned (see below), for personalized guidance.

Uniforms

We may wear US Coast Guard uniforms, with a few subtle differences, such as silver-colored versus gold-colored insignia, which contain an "A" accent, that distinguishes Auxiliary members from Active Duty or Reserve personnel. Because the public often sees us as representatives of the Coast Guard, uniforms must be worn properly, with professionalism, and only during authorized activities. The New Member Handbook and the Uniforms Division When in uniform, we are nonetheless seen by the public as the US Coast Guard, so it is vital that the uniform be worn properly, only during authorized activities, and with dignity. The New Member Handbook and the Auxiliary Human Resources Directorate Uniforms Division of the Human Resources Directorate provide detailed guidance on proper wear and options.

Competencies

After earning full membership and familiarizing yourself with Auxiliary structure, explore the wide variety of specialty areas—or competencies—available. Some, like Boat Crew or Culinary Assistant (CA), require additional training and certification. Each has its own Study Guide or Handbook and a Personal Qualification Standard (PQS) to guide you through preparation, evaluation, and performance.

Mentoring

Your FC may assign a trusted, experienced member as your New Member Mentor—typically for about the first three months. Depending on your location, you may be invited to join a group or class for new members from multiple flotillas at the division or district level. During this time, you’ll explore roles and responsibilities and clarify where you’d like to focus your service. As you identify your interests, mentoring transitions to more specialized support from a qualification mentor or the FSO for that area.

Leadership Staff Offices

Our elected and appointed leaders are key to the Auxiliary’s success. As you gain experience, you may be invited to serve in an appointed role—becoming an FSO in a specific area. From there, you can consider running for an elected position, such as Vice Flotilla Commander (VFC). You can discuss leadership opportunities with your unit’s officers or seek perspective through a mentor, or networking.