To become a ship guard, specifically in the context of maritime security or a Coast Guard role, you must typically meet rigorous physical, educational, and background standards. For a professional military role like the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), the 2026 recruitment process involves multiple stages, beginning with a written examination covering subjects like Mathematics and Physics. Candidates must be between 18 and 22 years old and pass a grueling Physical Fitness Test (PFT), which often includes a 1.6 km run in under 7 minutes, 20 squat-ups, and 10 push-ups. Beyond the military, private maritime security guards (PMSC) protecting merchant vessels from piracy usually require a background in the armed forces or police. Essential certifications include the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) for seafarers and a Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) certificate. You must also pass a comprehensive medical exam to ensure you are fit for long periods at sea and undergo a background check to obtain the necessary seaman's discharge book and security clearances.