It is a lot of boat documentation information available online and on some occasions, it can be misleading. That is the reason why we created our Vessel Documentation Online blog: To answer some of your most common questions about the boating industry and to show you how to obtain the different forms you need to get, to comply with the regulations from the United States Coast Guard Boat registration. Boat registration can be one of them, and this article, in particular, will show you when, how, and why you should get it.
When
To begin with we need to make a distinction between registering your boat at a state level and at a federal level. Every vessel which is engine-equipped and operating in US waters must be registered either at a state level or with the federal government, aka the United States Coast Guard. It is estimated that over 12 million boats are currently registered. When you register your boat in a particular state, it may be the tax commission, natural resources, or the fisheries and wildlife department that oversees your documentation.
This article will center on the US Coast Guard boat registration, which is the one that works federally. USCG documentation is mandatory for every boat over 5 net tons and used for commercial purposes. Recreational vessels over that same weight can choose whether to get it or not. Generally, 5 net tons equals approximately 27 feet long boats. Keep in mind that documenting your boat federally doesn’t exclude you from state registration. In fact, it varies from state to state. Additionally, it needs to be owned by an American citizen.
How
To begin with, the form you need to complete will depend on a number of factors: if you are getting the Coast Guard boat registration for the first time, you don’t have to fill the same document that if you are renewing it, for example. The name of the document will also vary. The first one you get will be called initial vessel documentation, and the paperwork you are looking for is the certificate of documentation.
To be able to get it, you need to go to the USCG website and head to the National Vessel Documentation Center. Over there you will find the form you need to complete, and once you downloaded it, filled it out and added the necessary supporting documents, you will be able to send it via regular mail to the USCG offices.
A different option is to complete online on the Vessel Documentation Online website, where our secure platform will keep your details safe with our ssl-encrypted site and give you the peace of mind of knowing that our experienced staff will overlook the documentation you submitted so no mistakes are made, delaying the overall process.
Why
Other than when you don’t have the option of NOT getting your Coast Guard Boat Registration, people generally decide to get their COD (Certificate of Documentation) in order that mortgages, liens and bills of sale are licensed at a federal level, making them easier to be traced. Furthermore, it is recommended that you get your vessel documented if you plan to travel overseas, as it is recognized as proof of ownership and facilitates the entry and clearance from foreign ports. You can contact us today to help you out with the process. You won’t regret it!
