Vessel documentation renewal is an important part of owning a boat and staying on top of it is a responsible step that you must be aware of. After all, if you don’t have the proper documentation on hand, you may find yourself facing fees and penalties that will keep you from enjoying your time on the water. In order to operate your water safely and legally, here’s what you need to know about keeping your documentation up to date.
Vessel Documentation Renewal Legal Requirements
It’s a legal requirement to have current paperwork so it’s vital to pay attention to expiration dates and apply for document renewal well ahead of time to prevent a lapse. Hitting the water without your documentation can cause problems, which include fees and penalties. Your certification proves legal compliance, so keep them handy at all times.
Avoid Penalties
Avoiding penalties is one of the best reasons to update your documentation. Getting caught on the water without your current documentation basically means you are out of legal compliance and will be charged fees as a result. For peace of mind and to save money, it’s best to pay attention to expiration dates for documentation.
Financial Security
You naturally don’t want to pay any more money in fees than you have to, so keeping finances in mind is a responsible part of owning a boat. If you want to finance your boat or get insurance to cover it, you must have current paperwork. In other words, safeguarding your finances means updating documentation, as necessary.
What’s Involved in the Renewal Process?
Documentation renewal can be an overwhelming process, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding the steps involved streamlines the entire task and makes it much easier for you. Here’s what’s involved:
- Find the correct form
- Fill it out and check for mistakes and error
- Submit the documentation
- Pay the fees
Why Renew?
Timely renewal has many benefits, including avoiding paying fees and penalties for failing to stay on top of it. There are also other advantages to keeping your vessel documentation current and accurate. That includes the following:
- Access to international waters – you can’t enter foreign ports without updated documentation
- Resale value – current paperwork means a higher resale value if you decide to sell your boat
- Environmentally responsible – following USCG requirements means pollution prevention and waste management and current paperwork allows for monitoring and compliance with these efforts on your part.
Nautical Responsibility
Adhering to USCG requirements is part of your responsibility as the owner of a boat and means you are a positive part of the boating community. Staying current with your paperwork also allows for enjoying your time on the water and getting the most out of it. Whether you’ve been on the water for years, or you’re entirely new to it, you owe yourself the responsibility of keeping your documentation current, so make it a part of your habit, starting right away.
Do you need help with the vessel documentation renewal process? You are in the right place. Contact the US Vessel Documentation Center today and we will guide you through each step, from start to finish.
