Are you aware that all boats and vessels registered in your name must meet USCG documentation requirements? We’ll go through the specifics of what’s required and how to make sure your registration number is up to snuff in this article. At least three inches high, the registration number of all USCG verified vessels must be displayed on both the port and starboard sides of the vessel. The typography should be in a color that contrasts with the backdrop and in a position that is easy to read. Under normal circumstances, the registration number on the bow must be visible from at least 50 feet away. Any promotional material produced by or for the vessel’s owner or operator must also mention its registration number. Check out these guidelines if you own a USCG-documented vessel! Civil fines may be imposed if you don’t.
The vessel Must Be United States Built.
The process of registering a vessel in the United States differs from registering a vessel in another nation. It is important to understand the distinctions between the two to avoid receiving any penalties or fines from your state registration office. Every state has its regulations for vessel registration, but as a general rule, a vessel must have been constructed in the United States, or if it was not built in the United States, its construction must have been overseen by a U.S. citizen or resident alien who has the necessary license. The only exception is if you are moving a vessel back to its original location permanently, but even in this case, you will need to provide documentation proving that the present owner of the vessel is selling it and that this is all they have acquired from the seller (if applicable).
The vessel Must Have a Valid Marine Document Number.
According to americanboating.org, the United States Coast Guard requires that all domestic and international vessels be registered and have a Vessel Documentation Number issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. In the United States, you must have a valid hull identification number (HIN) on your boat to sail. However, although some individuals are under the impression that this information is solely utilized by law enforcement personnel, it is required to be shown by almost all boats, regardless of their size. While utilized on international seas or when traveling in any body of water that links with the sea (such as rivers or inland lakes), even kayaks, canoes, and inflatables are needed to have a valid HIN on board.
There Must Be Evidence of Ownership for USCG Documentation
Getting a new title is not as simple as strolling into a registrar’s office, filling out an application, paying the appropriate money, and walking out with a new title in hand. Most states demand a variety of documentation and photographs before they can issue any license or permit. A vessel must have proven legal ownership (title) and must be documented in, or be eligible to be documented in, the United States to be considered for documentation. Individuals who are citizens of the United States or permanent resident immigrants are prohibited from owning recreational boats smaller than 65 feet in length that are not documented under the laws of the United States of America. Annual registration with the United States Customs Service Office is required, as is the acquisition of a Certificate of Paperwork (which may be used in place of Coast Guard documentation) and a decal for each vessel registered.
The Owner of The Vessel Must Be a Citizen or Resident of The United States And At Least 18 Years Old
An official decal registration or U.S. Coast Guard license is required to operate any recreational watercraft in the United States. As a general rule, a person 12 years of age or older must operate a boat on public waters. If a boat has a working engine, it may be registered in the United States. Every passenger under 6’7″ who is aboard a vessel under 25 feet must have an authorized flotation device. Avoid the bother of a hefty fee by registering your sailboat right now. Your registration card is valid for three years, but it is valid for five years if you switch owners or boats. Notify the USCG promptly if your address changes so that they can maintain your records up to date.
Maritime Documentation Center, a premier supplier of titling and USCG documentation services, recognizes the uniqueness of each boat owner. As a result of this effort, we can tailor our service to meet your specific requirements. Marine Documentation Center is a maritime documentation agency committed to the safe and effective usage of sea-going vessels in the United States. This involves making sure the necessary USCG paperwork is in place and filed in the relevant jurisdiction from coast to coast. You may rely on us for all of your future titling and registration requirements. For a no-obligation consultation, contact (800) 535-8570 or send an email to [email protected].