You should remember a few things if this is your first time buying or making a USCG Certificate. This article will discuss some of the best practices to guarantee a problem-free implementation. Read on for some valuable pointers, whether you’re a first-time USCG watercraft owner or need a refresher. Here are a few things to remember while applying for or generating a USCG Certificate. This article will discuss some of the best practices to guarantee a problem-free implementation. Read on for some valuable pointers whether you’re brand new to owning a USCG watercraft or need a refresher.
Make Sure You Know What Type of USCG Certificate You Need
Make sure you know upfront what kind of certification you’ll need. One must distinguish between a Certificate of Documentation and a Boat Title (COD). Typically, you’ll need to title your boat at the Maritime Documentation Center. The Certificate of Documentation (COD) is the legal authorization to earn money lawfully by transporting people or freight for hire on a boat.
For instance, if you have a certificate of occupancy and discharge, you might operate a charter fishing boat for day-trippers. Any operation that may include paying people or goods for employment, even once, would make your boat “documented” under U.S. law and need registration with the Coast Guard, even if you don’t have a COD.
Gather the Required Documentation
You must prove that your ship meets specific safety standards to get a USCG certificate. The paperwork needed varies with the kind and size of the vessel. Before registering a boat you’ve bought or constructed from scratch, you should check its VIN against a database to ensure it has yet to be recorded. You may apply for a Certificate of Documentation if the search reveals that the VIN you’re considering has not yet been registered (i.e., if the VIN is displayed with a “Not Found” status).
If the vessel is not in a database, you will need to measure its length by its widest point without considering any projections (like pontoons or outriggers). If the vessel is to be registered as a standalone entity, this dimension must be at least five feet. The second vessel of at least five feet in width must be recorded alongside yours if your proposed container will be narrower than five feet (if such a combination is possible).
Verify the Authenticity of The Issuing Authority
This is a common source of confusion among those trying to determine which USCG Certificate they need. Know if you need a Boat Registration Certificate or a Vessel Documentation Certificate. The former kind is the most popular among boat owners since it only records the boat’s name, owner, length, and other information required by state and federal law.
This certificate may be requested from the Coast Guard or the Maritime Documentation Center, among other agencies. The second is often utilized by commercial boat owners or those who want to keep their vessel’s name and ownership records the same as a government entity in their area. If you have previously registered your boat but need to replace a lost or damaged certificate, you will likely have to deal with the USCG directly.
Check for Any Restrictions on the Use
If you own a boat, you’re responsible for ensuring it complies with all U.S. Coast Guard regulations. The safety of the persons on board and the marine animals in the area is guaranteed by this accreditation. Before purchasing any new or old boat, check to see whether it has all the required certifications. If you’re in the market for a new ship, you may be sure it meets U.S. Coast Guard standards. If you have an older boat and want to change it, you should check the latest rules and regulations.
U.S. Coast Guard accreditations range from Commercial vessels (C-V) through Passenger vessels (P-V) to Uninspected Fishing Vessels (F/V). The necessary precautions and equipment vary according to the kind. Getting your boat examined for the first time will take the most time, but subsequent inspections will take much less time.
Save Your Certificate for Future Reference!
Get a copy of your certification and keep it safe. If you were forced to purchase it from an authorized USCG dealer, that business should have a copy available for you to keep, and if they don’t, they should be able to tell you which states do and do not need documents. If you take your exams online, print off a copy just in case anything goes wrong with the transmission of your scores.
This might be due to technical difficulties with the system or an issue with your account. All credentials must be renewed every five years, so keeping track of that is another crucial detail to keep in mind. It would be awful if anything happened to your certificate before it expired, so be careful to store it as they instruct. Suggested locations include a fireproof safe or a closed office at work.
If you’re interested in purchasing or creating a USCG certificate, contact the Maritime Documentation Center through the online chat. The staff can answer any questions and help you through the process.