Your vessel must be documented under U.S. law if it meets these criteria:
- Size: measures five net tons or more (most recreational vessels over 25 feet long qualify).
- Use: Engaged in specific commercial activities, including coastwise trade (transporting goods or passengers between U.S. points) or fishing in navigable U.S. waters and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs).
Your vessel also must be wholly owned by an American citizen. Failing to document a legally required vessel can result in fines or the inability to operate in certain capacities.
What is vessel documentation, and why does it matter?
Vessel documentation is a national registration system administered by the U.S. Coast Guard. It provides legal proof of ownership, a unique Official Number, and eligibility for certain activities, such as commercial trade or international travel under the U.S. flag. Documentation makes vessel ownership transparent, helps establish priority in the event of an accident or lien, and connects you to benefits, such as access to a Preferred Ship Mortgage.
Can I voluntarily document my vessel?
Yes! Even if your vessel isn’t required to be documented, you can voluntarily document it if:
- It measures at least five net tons.
- It’s wholly owned by U.S. citizens.
Many boat owners choose documentation voluntarily for benefits like a unique Official Number (great for identification), boat name registration, eligibility for international voyages, and access to financing options like Preferred Ship Mortgages.
What are some exemptions to documentation requirements?
Certain vessels may be exempt from documentation, including:
- Recreational vessels with a net tonnage under five net tons.
- Vessels not engaged in commercial use or transported exclusively on private inland lakes.
Many of these vessels must be registered with the state. Know the laws in your particular state.
Does Coastwise trade impact documentation requirements?
Yes. If your vessel participates in coastwise trade, it must be documented with a coastwise trade endorsement from the U.S. Coast Guard. Coastwise trade involves transporting goods or passengers between U.S. ports, points in the EEZ, or between both. Without proper documentation, engaging in this trade can lead to legal penalties and operational challenges.
What if my vessel operates in the fishing industry?
Vessels used for commercial fishing in U.S. navigable waters or EEZs are required to obtain documentation with a Fisheries Endorsement. This helps ensure compliance with regulations while granting legal privileges tied to fishing activities.
How Can My Vessel Qualify for Documentation?
What are the general eligibility requirements?
For a vessel to qualify for U.S. Coast Guard documentation, it must meet the following:
- Be wholly owned by U.S. citizens.
- Measuring no less than five net tons.
If the vessel meets these two requirements, it qualifies for documentation under various endorsements (Recreational, Coastwise Trade, Fisheries, etc.), depending on its intended use.
What if my vessel is owned by a company or trust?
Ownership structures such as corporations, partnerships, and trusts can also qualify if the appropriate percentage of their ownership or equity interest complies with U.S. citizenship regulations.
For example:
- Corporations must have a U.S. citizen as their CEO and require that no more than a minority of directors necessary for a quorum be non-citizens.
- Trusts must ensure U.S. citizens serve as trustees and beneficiaries holding an enforceable interest.
Proper documentation of these structures must be submitted when applying.
Are foreign-built vessels eligible for U.S. documentation?
Foreign-built vessels can still qualify for U.S. documentation. However, they may face restrictions depending on the intended trade under U.S. laws, such as limitations on coastwise trade capabilities unless explicitly waived.
Can I document a vessel previously registered in a foreign country?
Yes. However, you’ll need to provide evidence of deregistration from the foreign registry, along with your ownership documentation, to complete the transfer.
What is the Documentation Process Like?
What documentation endorsements are available for my vessel?
The following endorsements match specific activities:
- Recreational for personal use.
- Coastwise Trade for commercial transport of goods or passengers within U.S. waters.
- Fisheries for commercial fishing operations.
- Registry for international voyages or foreign trade.
Choose the endorsement that best aligns with your vessel’s use. You can even change endorsements through our portal as well.
What paperwork is required to document my vessel?
To document a vessel, you’ll need:
- Form CG-1258 (Application for Documentation).
- Evidence of vessel ownership (e.g., Builder’s Certification or Bill of Sale).
- Proof of removal from other national or state registries (if applicable).
- Evidence of U.S. citizenship (for individuals, corporations, or trusts).
Depending on your circumstances, additional forms or waivers may be required. You can do all of this and more at our portal.
Can I renew my vessel documentation?
Yes. Just like vehicle registration, vessel documentation must be renewed annually. Renewal requires submitting a quick online application and paying the relevant fees before your expiration date. Some may be documented for up to five years in advance.
What if I Don’t Document My Vessel?
What are the risks of not documenting a vessel that requires documentation?
Operating a vessel that legally requires documentation without proper credentials can result in fines, legal liability, and restrictions. A lack of documentation also complicates activities like securing loans, international travel, or coastwise trade operations.
What if I started operating without realizing I needed documentation?
Mistakes happen! The U.S. Coast Guard allows you to apply for documentation at any time. Prompt action helps avoid penalties, so get started today.
How Can CG Portal Help?
Navigating federal requirements can feel complex, but CG Portal simplifies the process by providing:
- Step-by-step guidance for completing required forms.
- Automated reminders for renewal deadlines.
- Access to common services like amendments, title transfers, and endorsements.
- Reliable support to ensure accurate, compliant submissions.
Can CG Portal assist with international registration issues?
Absolutely. CG Portal helps process applications for deregistering foreign vessels and transferring them to U.S. documentation.
What if I still have questions?
Our team of documentation experts is ready to assist. Whether you need help with your application, understanding eligibility requirements, or determining endorsements, CG Portal ensures a seamless process.
Explore the peace of mind that comes with fully documented ownership and the confidence to take your vessel wherever adventure calls!