Vessel Documentation Forms

Renew Certificate

Renew your Certificate of Documentation for up to five years in advance. Begin Application

Change of Address

Change the physical or mailing address on your Certificate of Documentation. Begin Application

Abstract of Title

Discover more information about a vessel. Begin Application

Initial Vessel Documentation

Document your vessel with the Coast Guard. Begin Application

Transfer/Exchange

Transfer/Exchange ownership of the vessel, change the managing owner, and more. Begin Application

Reinstatement of Documentation

Reinstate a certificate that expired more than thirty days ago. Begin Application

Certified Copy of Documentation

Acquire a certified copy of the vessel’s certificate as it exists on record. Begin Application

Deletion from USCG Documentation

Delete the vessel from US Coast Guard documentation. Begin Application

Replacement of Certificate of Documentation

Replace the Certificate of Documentation if it has been lost or mutilated. Begin Application

Change of Vessel Name or Hailing Port

Change the vessel’s name or its hailing port. Begin Application

Change of Endorsement/Trade Indicator

Change your vessel’s endorsement or trade indicator. Begin Application

Satisfaction/Release of Mortgage

Apply for a satisfaction of mortgage. Begin Application

Preferred Ship Mortgage

Apply for a First Preferred Ship’s Mortgage for your documented vessel. Begin Application

Notice of Claim of Lien (NCL)

Apply for a recording of a claim of lien against a documented vessel. Begin Application

Marad Small Vessel Waiver

Apply for a waiver of the US-build requirement to conduct limited passenger operations in America. Begin Application

Foreign Vessel Title Search Request

Discover more information about vessels in select foreign countries. Begin Application

Document Upload

Use this form to upload relevant information (USCG 1340 Bill of Sale, Last Will and Testament, Previous COD) to your USCG Documentation application processing. Upload Documents

Vessel Documentation Search

Conduct a vessel documentation search by Official Number and HIN. Click Here to Perform a Vessel Documentation Search
USCG Certified Documentation Copy: Purpose, Process and Practical Use
A copy of USCG certified documentation copy is an official, verified replica of the documentation records of a vessel. Authority of Coast Guard. This document is the authoritative evidence of a vessel’s particulars, ownership, and endorsements. Many vessel owners only realize the importance of this document when they face inspections,Read More
Coast Guard Seizes Millions in Drugs & Boat Documentation Plays a Part
In February 2026, the United States Coast Guard announced a major narcotics offload valued at $133 million, reinforcing the reality that maritime enforcement is both complex and constant. It may seem unlikely, but boat documentation is a significant part of how the Coast Guard enforces the law and how boatRead More
U.S. Maritime Administration: Authority, Functions and Vessel Support
The U.S. Maritime Administration is responsible for various maritime operations in the United States. It administers programmed that facilitate the safe, efficient and economic use of our waterways. For vessel owners, operators, and maritime businesses, this agency affects documentation, compliance, financing, and regulation flexibility. Many owners will come into contactRead More

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