Your boat documentation is important to have on hand. It’s what identifies your boat if the Coast Guard needs to board your vessel or if you are involved in an accident or emergency situation. Don’t be alarmed if you can’t find yours. It’s possible to request a replacement from the United States Coast Guard, but don’t wait too long. Your US Coast Guard Certificate of Documentation is a vital piece of paperwork and you don’t want to be caught without it. Keep reading to find out how to get a new one as soon as possible.
Request a Copy
Fortunately, you can request a certified copy of your Certificate of Documentation online. This makes it easier to do and can speed up the process so that you aren’t left without one for too long. Keep in mind that this will only get you a copy. You won’t be able to make any changes to the information contained in the document. You may be able to request the certificate on a priority basis for an additional fee.
What if You Lose the Certificate of Documentation?
Getting a certified copy of the certificate is one thing, but if you have lost it, you will need to file for replacement, rather than a copy. That’s because the United States Coast Guard requires an original Certificate of Registration for it to be valid. This is also your option if your Certificate of Documentation has been damaged in any way. You can request a replacement online in much the same way as you would request a copy. Again, you can also request a priority service for an additional cost.
How to Change the Certificate of Documentation
Remember that if you are requesting a copy of your Certificate of Documentation, you cannot make any changes to it. If you need to make changes, such as your hailing port, the name of your boat, or your address of residence, you will need to follow a different process and then will receive an updated Certificate of Documentation with the updated information on it. This needs to be done as soon as possible after changes are made because current information is vital in cases of accidents or emergencies.
Steps in the Process
Because you can request a copy or replacement Certificate of Documentation online, you will have to put in less time and effort than the old-fashioned way of filling the application out online and then mailing it in. However, you will still need information about your boat on hand to complete the request. That includes the boat’s name and official number. You’ll also need to include accurate contact information as the boat owner, including physical address and email address. You can also pay for the request online. Once that’s complete, you will need to wait for the replacement to arrive. If you’re concerned that you’ll need it quickly, be sure you pay the extra fee to expedite the process, which will give your request priority.
Do you need help facilitating a request for a replacement US Coast Guard Certificate of Documentation? That’s just one reason to visit Vessel Documentation Online. We can guide you in the process so that you aren’t caught without important paperwork. Contact us today with your questions and let us help you get started.