USCG vessel documentation is required for boats that measure over five net tons. In the old days, the paperwork to be documented was filled out by hand and mailed in. Then you’d have to wait for the approval and the documentation to be mailed back to you. Now, in the 21st century, it’s much faster and easier to process United States Coast Guard documentation online. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about it.
Why Document Your Boat?
It’s legally required to document your boat, whether it’s at the state level, the federal level, or both. Much like registering your car, you must do the same for your watercraft, which makes it legal for you to operate on the water, either for commercial purposes or for fun. Being documented by the United States Coast Guard also offers specific benefits, including the freedom to sail on international waters, priority ports in other countries, emergency assistance, and others. It’s also much easier to sell a boat that is USCG documented.
How to Document Your Boat
Gone are the days of having to fill out your boat paperwork by hand with a ballpoint pen. Now, you can use our easy online portal to get assistance and guidance with your documentation needs. The process is much simpler when you are prompted to put information in the appropriate location and it takes a lot of the guesswork out of the process. It’s now possible to apply for USCG documentation online, as well as renew all paperwork when the time comes. The entire process is convenient and can be done on your phone, laptop, or tablet, wherever and whenever you’re ready to get the process completed.
What You Need to Get Started
Before you apply to have your boat documented, you will need to have some vital information handy, which is required to receive your paperwork. That includes your hull identification number, the registration number, and the name of your boat. You will also have to prove your citizenship and that you own the boat in question. That can be done via a bill or sale or certificate of title. Once your paperwork is complete, it will be reviewed and once it’s approved, you will receive your Certificate of Documentation.
to Keep in Mind
Once documented, it’s imperative to keep all relevant paperwork somewhere safe and dry on your boat. If you are ever boarded by the United States Coast Guard, you will need to have this paperwork on hand to prove that you are allowed to operate and that you are the owner of the boat. It’s also necessary in an emergency if you need to call for help. Remember that your paperwork will need to be renewed consistently so watch for notices that yours is about to expire so that you can apply for renewal in an appropriate time frame.
USCG vessel documentation doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort. With the internet, it’s never been easier to apply for boat documentation. Do you need help facilitating the process? Do you have questions about how to get it done? Contact Vessel Documentation Online and we’ll help you every step of the way.
