As a USCG boat owner, you know that having the proper documents for your vessel is an essential component of both owning and operating your boat. On the other hand, were you aware that this documentation has to be updated regularly? If you cannot edit your documentation due to a lack of time, you should begin preparations for the boat documentation renewal as soon as possible. In this article, we will talk about renewing your membership and advise on how to make it as simple and uncomplicated as possible. We hope that this information will assist you in maintaining full compliance with all USCG requirements aboard your vessel. The following are some of the reasons why you should consider renewing your documents right away:
To Stay in Compliance with The Law
To ensure that you are not violating the law, if you want to maintain your boat at a location that needs registration, you need to check that all of the paperwork you have is still in good standing. In many states, a boat must be registered at all times, even if it is not used or has no engine. For instance, many marinas have a section set aside expressly for storing boats that aren’t being used. Your boat may need to be documented in each state in which it is kept if it is registered in more than one state. When you have concerns about how to comply with these regulations, you should consult with the appropriate authorities since the rules differ from state to state.
Boat Documentation Renewal Helps to Avoid Fines and Penalties
Regarding the documentation of your boat, it is quite probable that you will want to ensure that your boat is correctly documented before each period in which the registration must be renewed. The failure to renew the paperwork for your yacht might result in financial fines and other consequences. You must be aware that failure to pay these fines and penalties may result in the suspension or revocation of the rights associated with your vessel registration.
Second, suppose you drive your vessel without renewing its documentation. In that case, there is always a chance that a law enforcement official will pull you over and issue you a ticket for operating a boat that is not registered to you. This is because law enforcement officials have the authority to issue such tickets. Consequently, although this may not seem a major issue, it can have significant repercussions when dealing with the legal system.
To Ensure the Safety of Your Vessel and Crew
The papers must show that a boat conforms to federal safety rules, including construction, lifesaving equipment, and firefighting. In addition, it serves as proof that you have met the rules for maintaining records of alterations and repairs. In order to preserve the documentation status of your boat, you will be required to pay a boat documentation renewal fee and give evidence that you have complied with all of the relevant regulations.
This includes mentioning on your application any alterations or modifications made to your boat since the last time it was inspected and confirming that you have a current survey (if applicable). If your boat has been altered since the last time it was surveyed, you will also need a certificate from a trained marine surveyor indicating that the alterations comply with federal rules. This letter is required in addition to the previous documentation.
Boat Documentation Renewal Helps Maintain Insurance Coverage
According to state.gov, boat owners must be aware that they must regularly update their boat documentation to maintain their insurance coverage. If you do not renew your boat’s papers promptly, your boat will lose its insurance coverage. You must ensure that your yacht’s insurance policy is kept up to date to prevent the complications mentioned earlier. In addition to the insurance, you need to check and ensure that the boat paperwork is in order and does not include any errors. If you own a boat of any kind, you should make it a priority to update its paperwork well before the date it is now set to expire. Doing so will guarantee that you won’t run into any issues while you’re out on the water or with the coverage provided by your insurance.
In general, boat registration is necessary every three years. However, some states require yearly registration, while others only require it every five years. If you’re unsure what you need to register and stay up-to-date on your documentation in your state, contact the Maritime Documentation Center today at 800-535-8570 for more.