vessel documentation

How to Obtain a Certified Copy of Vessel Documentation Online

Owning a copy of your vessel documentation can get you out of many situations. It´s important that you have a legal paper to back your documentation in case something happens to it. Read further to learn all you need to get your copy right away.

Keep in mind that you can only apply for a certified copy of the Certificate of Documentation if it is still within 30 days from the expiration date. Documentation expiration is located on the lower-left corner of the paper. If the Certificate of Documentation has passed the 30 days since expiration, you cannot apply for a certified copy nor for renewal. You have to go for reinstatement.

vessel documentation

Getting Started With The Copy Of Your Vessel Documentation

Before you begin, you should know that any person may file this request; you do not need to be the managing owner to submit an application for a certified copy. This is useful if the boat operator and the managing owner are different persons and the owner doesn’t have the time to deal with it.

You should be aware of the legal issues that may arise if you don’t comply with the requirements. If you fail to report any changes or return the certified copy once the Certification of Documentation expires, you could be seriously fined and your vessel could be removed from the United States Coast Guard documentation registry.

Information Needed For The Certified Copy

Look for the ‘Certified Copy (COD)’ tab on the main page or in the column at the left of the portal. You will notice right away that the form is pretty short and simple. After all, you are just asking for a certified copy of the Certificate of Documentation (which its initial registration form is 3 pages long).

Start with the vessel’s name and the official number given by the United States Coast Guard. Proceed with personal information: first and last name, email address, and phone number. You have to provide a physical address, as it is where the certified copy of the Certificate of Documentation will be sent. 

Certify that all recitation concerning the vessel contained in the original Certificate of Documentation remains the same. Sign and specify the capacity of the person signing. Check the date is actual as well.

The price for the certified copy is $70.00. You can also apply for additional services such as an abstract of title, rush processing, and the United States Coast Guard documentation renewal for 5 years.

The Safest And Fastest Portal For Your Vessel

At Vessel Documentation Online you can find all the forms and applications you need for your boat, recreational or commercial. The website is designed so that everything is easy to find; no more endless hours searching the web to get your paperwork done. You don’t have to worry if there is any typo or spelling mistakes in your application; we’ll let you know about it.

Our SSL encrypted portal protects your privacy and any sensitive information you may be required to provide at all times. You can be confident that we care about our customers. Give us a call or write to the chat if you have any questions.