FAQ's
What is a preferred mortgage?
A preferred mortgage is a mortgage which is given status as a maritime lien. As such it enjoys a certain priority in the event of default. In addition, the Coast Guard is prohibited from making certain changes in documentation including, but not limited to, change of vessel ownership, name, and hailing port without consent of the mortgagee. For this reason many financial institutions require vessels which are eligible for documentation to be documented and to have preferred mortgages recorded against them.
Where can I get forms for documentation?
United States Coast Guard vessel documentation forms are available online at this website. Upon completion, all forms automatically forward to Documentation Processors for review.
Must I submit my application by mail?
No, you do not have to submit any vessel documentation by mail.
Completing boat documentation online can expedite the process, as it is not subject to potential delays (as mail submission may).
Completing boat documentation online can expedite the process, as it is not subject to potential delays (as mail submission may).
How do I obtain title information for a documented vessel?
You may obtain an Abstract of Title which will show all bills of sale, mortgages, and notices of claim of lien filed and recorded by the Coast Guard. You may request an Abstract by navigating to the following page: Abstract of Title
Is a documented vessel exempt from state jurisdiction?
No.
Any documented vessel must comply with the laws of the state in which they are operated, including the laws relating to safety equipment, according to the Government.
Any documented vessel must comply with the laws of the state in which they are operated, including the laws relating to safety equipment, according to the Government.
Is the vessel tender documented?
Vessel documentation does not cover a vessel’s tender or dinghy.
As those measure less than five net tons, they are not eligible for vessel documentation.
As those measure less than five net tons, they are not eligible for vessel documentation.
What happens when I sell my documented vessel?
When the sale is finalized, you may complete a Bill of Sale. The new owner will have to complete a Transfer application, which can be completed by navigating to the following link: Transfer/Exchange
How long is the certificate of documentation valid?
Provided there are no changes other than the owner’s address, a Certificate of Documentation is valid for one year from the date of issue.
Previously, any Certificate of Documentation had to be renewed annually.
Previously, any Certificate of Documentation had to be renewed annually.
May I renew a lost certificate of documentation?
No, a lost certificate of documentation must be replaced by completing an application for Replacement, which can be completed by navigating to the following page: Replacement (COD)
SHOULD I RETURN THE CERTIFICATE OF DOCUMENTATION WITH THE RENEWAL NOTICE?
NO, simply sign, date and return the Renewal of USCG Documentation Notice even if your address has changed. Please note the address change. You will receive a new certificate that shows your new address.
May I renew my document early?
Yes.
You can submit your Renewal application before your expiration date.
You can submit your Renewal application before your expiration date.
How do I notify you of my change of address?
Vessel owners can submit a Change of Address form through our site. The form can be found here.
Additionally, vessel owners can update their Change of Address when renewing their Certificate of Documentation. The new address can be updated in the renewal application. That application can be found here. Per Cornell Law, “whenever the managing owner changes, the managing owner shall notify (the authorities) within 10 days.”
Additionally, vessel owners can update their Change of Address when renewing their Certificate of Documentation. The new address can be updated in the renewal application. That application can be found here. Per Cornell Law, “whenever the managing owner changes, the managing owner shall notify (the authorities) within 10 days.”
