MTSA requires the implementation of a biometric transportation security card system to prevent unauthorized individuals from gaining unescorted access to secure areas of MTSA-regulated facilities and vessels. Any person (including employees, contractors, and visitors) seeking unescorted access to secure areas of MTSA facilities must possess a valid transportation security card; otherwise, that person must be escorted by an individual with a TWIC.
The U.S. Coast Guard and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued the TWIC Final Rule on January 25, 2007, setting forth mandatory requirements that all persons seeking unescorted access to MTSA-regulated facilities possess a valid TWIC card. The TWIC Final Rule became effective on March 26, 2007. TSA administers the TWIC program, and is in charge of receiving applications, approving or denying applicants, and issuing TWICs.
