USCG Port State Control Practice Exam

Submitting a Notice of Arrival (NOA) for a voyage that lasts less than 96 hours requires it to be done prior to departure but at least 24 hours in advance. This timeframe ensures that relevant authorities, including the Coast Guard, have sufficient notice to prepare for the vessel’s arrival. By submitting the NOA before departure, the ship provides critical information for maritime safety and security assessments.

This timeframe also reflects compliance with regulations aimed at improving the efficiency of port operations and enhancing safety protocols. Therefore, having a minimum of 24 hours' notice before the ship sets sail allows the necessary time for processing the information and coordinating any required inspections or responses upon arrival.

The other choices do not align with the regulatory requirements. For instance, if a NOA were to be submitted at least 48 hours before departure, this would be excessive for voyages shorter than 96 hours. Similarly, submitting the NOA immediately after departure or within 12 hours of arrival would not comply with the regulatory framework, leaving insufficient time for authorities to prepare for the vessel's entry.