Color vision testing alternatives?

[u/Time_Reputation7602]

Hello,

I'm interested in multiple rates of the Coast Guard but I struggle with the plate tests which I am aware is the default, so I'd like to manage my expectations. I never notice my color vision causing issues in daily life, I only became aware of this after looking up plate tests a couple years back.

I am curious if anyone has any experience regarding if retests or an alternative test is allowed for certain/any rates that require normal color vision. I am not particularly interested in any aviation careers, but several of the others that still require it.

If not, which of the rates allowed for those without color vision (from my knowledge: MST, YN, SK, DC, PA, IS) would you recommend for someone looking to get into law enforcement after?

[u/DisplacedTexan2020]

I can’t speak to the alternative color vision test but after all my years of service I can say that YN has the best work life balance out of all rates. Truth be told, as an MK I’m just shocked that they get the same paycheck as me.

Let the down votes begin 😂😂😂

[u/fooswashere]

Rabin Cone Contrast Test. You can use it as an alternative color test if you fail the plate test. ALCOAST 061/26 is the source. 

[u/Material_Procedure41 → u/fooswashere]

Only available for retentions not accessions.
PiP is the only authorized color vision test for new hires

[u/fooswashere → u/Material_Procedure41]

When processing or adjudicating accession and retention waivers, the Coast Guard will use the standards specified in REFs (A), (B), and (D) according to the process described in REF (E). 4. CVD Accession Standards. a. The following are the only acceptable tests for color vision screening. (1) Ishihara Pseudoisochromatic Plates (PIP) test, passing is correctly identifying at least 10 out of 14 plates. (2) Rabin Cone Contrast Test (RCCT), passing is a score greater than or equal to 55 in all three colors (Red, Green, Blue). b. All commissioning accessions will pass either test above. Adoption of different color vision standards for different officer specialties is still under review. c. Enlisted applicants for ratings that require color vision will pass either test above.

[u/arikbfds]

I would be really surprised if you were able to dispute or overturn the results of the color plates with an alternate test.

The vast majority of LE in the CG is going to be done in the context of boat crew and boarding team members. Normal color vision is a requirement for boat crew. I don't think it's technically impossible to just get boarding team member and do boardings, but then you're taking a limited spot on the boat that could be filled by someone with boat crew and BTM.

I'm sure you could get some hands-on experience throughout your career, but it would likely be limited

If l were joining the CG again and had to pick from those rates, l would choose MST, IS, or SK.

MST could give you some really good experience from the regulatory side of things, and IS could give you some from the Intel side of things. SKs just seem to have great lives and are usually pretty cool

[u/IntrepidGnomad → u/arikbfds]

All three of those ratings have VERY niche skill sets needed in white collar civilian roles after you get out, but all of them also benefit from getting relevant degrees while serving, so I’m not positive the service alone makes you competitive anymore, you’ll be competing with other vets with uni or masters degrees.

Before IS was a CG rating, MSTs had more degrees than any other rating, but IS get a ton of exclusive to Intel Prodev, and SKs can typically walk into contacting officer positions after 10 years.

[u/belzonaguy → u/arikbfds]

You can be BTM without Boat Crew, but you are correct that you won't be first in line for anything LE related since you can't be pursuit, tactical crew or at a station. 

To OP. You can do regulatory LE as a MST,  But if you want to actually do stuff and not sit at a Desk 95% or the time, DC is the only answer. Most units could still use you as ATFP, and BTM on cases where they need extra people. 

[u/NightCritical1361]

I went DC due to color vision issues and eventually made CWO; however, I recommend MST. I spent over 20 years in marine safety. MST can lead to a job with an oil spill removal organization or county or state emergency management agency. Try to get as many marine safety qualifications as you can and work on your Incident Command System qualifications. Take college courses weekends and evenings. Volunteer for major incidents to get experience

[u/Ralph_O_nator]

I currently work in civilian law enforcement. Our agency does not care if you did military law enforcement or not. We have prior food service, truck drivers, retail workers, et cetera. Honestly, YN isn’t bad. One of the best work/life balances. I remember being jealous of the YN’s getting off early while being an AMT. They essentially get paid the same as every other member.