Registration and Documentation
  • Every undocumentated vessel equipped with propulsion machinery of any type used on waters subject to jurisdiction of the United States and on the high seas beyond the territorial seas, and owned in the United States shall be numbered. Exceptions are outlined in COMDTINST M16796.8, Vessel Safety Check Manual.

  • The current certificate number contains the following identifying information: name of the owner, state of principle operation, make, length,statement as to the use of the boat, the number awarded, hull identification number, and the expiration date of the certificate

  • Vessels that are documented have their identity established officially by the Coast Guard who issues the Certificate of Documentation

  • Documented pleasure vessels must have the name and hailing port, including city and state abbreviation, marked in clearly visible letters of not less than four inches in height on some clearly visible exterior part of the hull.

  • The document issued to a particular vessel identifies the nationality and authorized use of the vessel.

  • Documented vessels must be at least five tons.