Port Manatee is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all employees, tenants and visitors.
The seaport security department operates from a state-of-the-art Access Control Center located at the port’s main North Gate entrance. From the high-tech center, security personnel monitor the port’s more than 1,100 acres via a sophisticated surveillance system. The facility also serves as an Emergency Command Center with communications features and space to accommodate various law enforcement agencies and departments in the event of an emergency.
Due to recent changes in state and federal law, security access requirements at Florida seaports are under review. New information will be posted to this web site as it is made available.
Access and Credentialing
Port Manatee requires that all persons who have a legitimate reason to enter the port display and/or possess properly issued identification credentials. This is to ensure the safety and security of all individuals and assets at Port Manatee.
All persons entering the port must:
- Obtain and Display a Port Manatee Port Purpose Card
- Possess a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) or agree to established escort protocols
Non-TWIC holders may enter the port only when accompanied by a person who has a valid TWIC on file with the Port Manatee Seaport Security Department.
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Requirements To Obtain Port Manatee Port Purpose Card
To obtain a Port Manatee Port Purpose Card, applicants must:
- Possess a valid TWIC as required under federal law
- Present a verifiable business purpose to enter the port
- Complete the seaport security vetting process as outlined in Florida law including a Florida criminal background investigation. (additional criminal background vetting is not required if an individual possesses a valid seaport credential issued by another Florida seaport regulated under FS 311.09.)
Apply For Port Manatee Port Purpose Card
To apply for a Port Manatee Port Purpose Card applicants must:
(This form is required of all applicants and includes sections that must be completed by both the applicant and the applicant’s employer to provide verifiable evidence of port related business.)
(This form is required of applicants who will undergo the required Florida background investigation.) Individuals who possess a valid seaport credential issued by another Florida seaport regulated under FS 311.09 are not required to complete this form. However, a copy of the credential that satisfies the requirement will be verified.)
Renew Port Manatee Port Purpose Card
To renew a Port Manatee Port Purpose Card applicants must:
(This form is required of all applicants and includes areas that must be completed by both the applicant and the applicant’s employer to provide verifiable evidence of port related business.)
- Pay associated processing fees
Obtain Visitor Pass
Visitors who do not require access to the port more than five days in any 90-day period may be eligible for a visitor pass. A visitor pass enables individuals who do not routinely access the port to enter when specific security protocols are in place.
Visitors must present a valid driver’s license or photo identification card at the Port Manatee Access Control Center to obtain a pass.
(Individuals who do not possess a valid TWIC, must be escorted at all times while on the port. Security escort fees may apply.)
For information on Port Manatee’s Visitor/Escort guidelines and pricing, call the seaport security department at (941) 722-6455.