S.C. Code Regs. 136-720. Short Branch Qualification

A. The term of the apprentice training and qualification program shall be followed by a period of not less than two years for advanced qualification as a Short Branch pilot. B. With the consent of any apprentice who has passed the term of apprenticeship, the commencement of the period of short branch qualification may be suspended for a period of time, subject to the approval of the Commissioners. Under such circumstances, the Commissioners shall assure that the passed apprentice has completed a sufficient number of refresher round trips prior to licensure. C. The various tonnage and draft limitations for each short branch shall be: (1) Initial (first) Short Branch (one year) ... 24 feet deep draft. No tonnage restriction. (2) Second Short Branch (one year) ... 27 feet deep draft. No tonnage restriction. D. While undergoing advance qualification, Short Branch pilots may be observed by Full Branch pilots on board such vessels to which the Short Branch pilots may be assigned. E. Upon the completion of an appropriate period of time for any particular Short Branch, the satisfactory completion of which shall be determined by the pilots, the pilots shall submit to the Commissioners a listing of every vessel piloted by the Short Branch pilot during that period, as well as a synopsis of any difficulties encountered, to demonstrate the performance of the Short Branch pilot.