When you register your boat with the United States Coast Guard, having your social security number on hand is an important step in the process, as it’s used to establish your American citizenship. When you go through vessel documentation with the USCG registry, it can be done by an individual, corporation, or partnership, as well as any other organization that can hold a legal title. This article will help you understand citizenship and how to register your watercraft with the Coast Guard.
Citizenship Requirements
To register a boat in the United States, one must establish citizenship, both as an individual and as an entity. The Code of Federal Regulations outlines the long version of the requirements, but the basics are that if a corporation or other organization operates in the United States, citizenship is required to register a boat with the Coast Guard.
The same is true if the chief executive officer is a citizen of the United States. Additionally, to receive fishery or coastwide endorsement status, 75 percent of stock held in the entity must be done by United States citizens. This can be a lot of confusing information to hold onto, but we are here to help you navigate it and can help you complete citizenship documents, from start to finish.
Establishing Citizenship
You will need a valid social security number to establish your United States citizenship. Without this number, you won’t be able to complete your documentation, which is required to legally register your boat with the United States Coast Guard. If you don’t have a social security number, you will need to apply for one and become a citizen of the country before you can proceed. This is a separate process and one that takes time. However, it’s important to complete it so that you can legally document your boat. Doing so improperly can lead to fines or loss of your vessel.
Other Requirements to Qualify for USCG Documentation
In addition to being a United States citizen, you must meet several other guidelines to document your boat with the United States Coast Guard. If you operate a commercial watercraft of any type, you must have approval from the USCG and meet the regulations for a boat that works to make money.
You’ll also need a current and valid Certificate of Inspection, which ensures that your boat meets safe operating standards. The vessel must also be deemed seaworthy when you apply for documentation. That means it needs to undergo a complete engine and structure check to ensure that it’s safe and operable. Finally, to be considered for USCG documentation, a boat must have been built in the United States, Mexico, or Canada.
Are you wondering if you have properly established your citizenship for the USCG registry? Don’t leave it up to chance or hope. Visit US Vessel Documentation Center today. We have all the forms you need and we can help you as you navigate the process, both by offering advice and assisting with paperwork which is all in the form of online downloadables.
