COMDTINST 16101.2 — Search And Rescue (sar) Training And Competency Management

COMDTINST 16101.2 governs Coast Guard search and rescue training, competency, qualification, certification, currency, and assessments.

Search COMDTINST 16101.2

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 16101.2
  • Title: SEARCH AND RESCUE (SAR) TRAINING AND COMPETENCY MANAGEMENT
  • Date: 2/2/2026
  • Proponent: CG-3/5R

View COMDTINST 16101.2 on armypubs.army.mil


The publication establishes SAR Misson Manager competency and covers training systems, quota management, unit programs, and workforce development. It requires standardized training and competency practices, annual assessments of Command Centers, and documentation for decertification.

Applies to: All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, and chiefs of headquarter directorates must comply with the policies contained.

Topics covered

  • SAR training systems
  • SAR training quota management
  • Competency and qualification
  • Certification and currency
  • SAR system assessments
  • SAR planning and coordination professionals

Questions and answers

Who must use COMDTINST 16101.2 for SAR responses?

All Coast Guard personnel assigned to Areas, Districts, and Sectors that plan and coordinate SAR responses must use this Instruction and become familiar with its contents. (paragraph 5)

Can local SAR procedures conflict with COMDTINST 16101.2?

Locally developed products must not conflict with this Instruction. (paragraph 5)

What happens when a member is decertified?

Decertification must be documented in the electronic training record. (paragraph 1)

How must records created under COMDTINST 16101.2 be managed?

Records created as a result of this Instruction, regardless of format or media, must be managed in accordance with Records & Information Management Program Roles and Responsibilities, COMDTINST 5212.12 (series) and the records retention schedule located on the Records Resource Center Microsoft SharePoint site. (paragraph 1-1)

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