>>1266367If you're still here anon, I am currently in port.
You don't need anything to start other than basic safety training (STCW), but that will mean you start off as an Ordinary Seaman/Oiler (the two lowest paying positions). You can work your way up to Able Bodied Seaman (deckside) and QMED (engine) just through time and then to the ranks of either 3rd Mate or 3 Assistant Engineer.
This takes a fuck ton of time and a couple of classes, but it's possible and you'll instantly start off with a better reputation on your ship if you hawsepipe your way to officer.
The other option is going to a Maritime Academy (7 of them in the US), and when you graduate you get your 3rd Mate's/3rd AE license.
This is much quicker, but it does cost money to go to school, unless you get into King's Point, which is the government US Merchant Marine Academy.
If you have any other questions feel free to ask, I have 5ish days left in cell service range.
