When you own a boat, USCG Vessel Documentation is an important part of the process. It offers many benefits to vessel owners that state titling cannot provide, such as a certificate of ownership from the government and the protection it provides when traveling overseas.
However, the certification process can be confusing. This article will help you navigate the requirements and fees involved with obtaining documentation for your vessel.
Requirements
Vessel documentation is a process by which the U.S. Coast Guard registers vessels that have not already been titled and numbered by State authorities. This process primarily establishes the vessel’s chain of ownership.
A documented vessel receives an official number that is permanently marked into the interior of the vessel. It also has a name and hailing port that are permanently marked on the exterior of the boat.
Unless exempt, recreational vessels of at least five net tons (26 feet or more in length) and commercial vessels must be documented by the Coast Guard. This includes towboats and dredges that operate in the United States or Exclusive Economic Zone.
Typically, a Builder’s Certification (Form CG-1261) is submitted to show that the vessel was built in the United States. This evidence may be backed up with copies of the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin, a transfer on the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin, if any, or a State Registration or Title.
Documentation Fees
A USCG vessel document is a national form of registration available for vessels that measure at least five net tons and are wholly owned by a U.S. citizen or citizens.
Vessel documentation is a federal process that occurs at the Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC). Like state titling, vessel documenting does not exempt you from state boating safety or tax laws, but it does supersede the state titling process.
The USCG requires all commercial vessels measuring at least five net tons, wholly owned by a U.S. Citizen or Citizens, and used in coastwise trade or fishing activities on the navigable waters or in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to be documented.
A USCG certificate of documentation (COD) identifies the owner, nationality, and registration number for each documented vessel. Customs officials worldwide recognize the COD as proof of ownership and authentication of the origin of a vessel. It also facilitates the clearance of a vessel when entering foreign waters.
Application Process
The application process associated with USCG Vessel Documentation is simple and straightforward. Once your vessel is documented you will receive a Certificate of Documentation (COD) from the Coast Guard’s National Vessel Documentation Center.
The document is a valuable piece of evidence that you are the owner and legal custodian of your vessel. You can use the documentation to prove your identity and ownership of your boat to law enforcement agencies and other individuals when you are in the waters.
You can also use the documentation to secure a lender’s lien. Most banks require that your vessel be documented with the Coast Guard in order to record a “First Preferred Ships Mortgage.” The mortgage is enforceable throughout the U.S. and many foreign countries.
Renewals
USCG Vessel Documentation is a required part of the boat ownership process. The process is designed to provide federally recognized evidence of vessel nationality and enables a vessel to be subject to preferred mortgages.
The Certificate of Documentation (COD) is issued upon the successful completion of an application and will be valid for one year, although there are renewal options available.
A COD contains all the endorsements that are appropriate for your boat. It lists the name, hailing port, dimensions, and ownership. It also includes all the restrictions, entitlements, and remarking requirements that are applicable to your vessel.
Vessel owners should make sure to keep their COD up to date and carry all of the documents associated with their vessel at all times. This is especially important if you plan to use your vessel in international waters.