I’m starting a list of documents I need to consult when I get time to visit The National Archives:
In 1677 the Admiralty introduced examinations for prospective lieutenants to test whether individuals had the necessary experience and skills. They were awarded a certificate if they passed. These certificates, which can provide information about a man’s service prior to the exam, usually recorded the age, date and place of birth of the officer as well as the names of the ships he had served on – Alfred Young
Royal Navy lieutenants’ passing certificates 1691-1902 / by Bruno Pappalardo
