COMDTINST 5500.18A — Mission Partner Identity, Credential, And Access Management (mp Icam)

COMDTINST 5500.18A governs Coast Guard management and execution of the MP ICAM system for mission partner credentials and access.

Search COMDTINST 5500.18A

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 5500.18A
  • Title: MISSION PARTNER IDENTITY, CREDENTIAL, AND ACCESS MANAGEMENT (MP ICAM)
  • Date: 7/10/2026
  • Proponent: CG-SPW

View COMDTINST 5500.18A on armypubs.army.mil


The publication covers CAC and NEATS use, credential issuance, identity verification, sponsorship roles, physical and logical access, and credential disposition. It requires defined MP ICAM roles, eligibility validation, background investigation checks, timely revocation, and procedures for exceptions and appeals.

Applies to: This Instruction applies to all Coast Guard military and civilian personnel that provide federal government credentials or sponsorship of credentials to mission partners.

Topics covered

  • Mission Partner Identity, Credential, and Access Management
  • Common Access Card and NEATS credentials
  • Credential issuance and eligibility
  • MP ICAM system roles
  • Unescorted physical access policy
  • Credential revocation and disposition
  • Credential denial appeals
  • Exceptions to policy

Questions and answers

What is the CAC used for under COMDTINST 5500.18A?

The Common Access Card (CAC) is the primary identification (ID) card for eligible contractors and foreign national affiliates and shall be used to facilitate standardized access to Coast Guard facilities, installations, and computer systems. (paragraph 5)

When can the MP ICAM application produce a credential?

The MP ICAM application shall only be used to produce a credential if access to Coast Guard facilities or installations, or to the CGOne Network, is essential as a condition of employment, assignment, or in assisting the Coast Guard via official volunteer programs. (paragraph 8)

What must an MPAS do when a credential is no longer required?

If for any reason a cardholder no longer requires access to Coast Guard facilities and/or information systems, the MPAS shall within one (1) business day: a. Perform the revocation process within MP ICAM in accordance with Reference (g) and have the card immediately collected. (paragraph 2)

How soon must collected credentials be returned to a RAPIDS site?

Collected federal government credentials shall be returned to the nearest RAPIDS site within two (2) business days for termination within DEERS. (paragraph 4)

What can cause a credential to be revoked or terminated?

Though not all inclusive, the following are some reasons to revoke or terminate a credential: a. Card expiration. b. Cardholder no longer meets the background investigation requirements. c. Card or contract expiration and/or option period not exercised. d. CG Auxiliarist duties or responsibility no longer needed. e. Contract or contractor termination or transfer. (paragraph 3)

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