Use this form to update your endorsement or trade indicator under the National Visa Center (NVC) process.
Key Details:
- Eligibility: Documented vessel owners who need to modify their occupational or trade-related endorsements.
- Benefits of This Form:
- Change your endorsement to be in compliance with the authorities.
- Updates your documentation to reflect your vessel usage.
- National Documentation Portal Benefits:
- Secure and streamlined submission process.
The most common endorsements are “Recreational,’ “Coastwise,” “Registry,” and “Fishery.”
Updating Your Vessel’s Endorsement or Trade Indicator
The endorsement or trade indicator on your vessel documentation defines how it’s used—commercial, fishing, towing, or other trade categories. When your operation changes, or you expand into new services, your endorsement must reflect that. Updating it ensures legal compliance and removes ambiguity.
Failing to match the stated endorsement with your actual use may lead to inspection issues, enforcement actions, or insurance complications.
When You Should Update the Endorsement
You’ll want to change your trade indicator or endorsement in situations like:
- You begin using the vessel for a different commercial activity (e.g. from towing to fishing)
- You add a new service or cargo operation
- Regulatory rules require a specific endorsement for a route or service
- You shift from recreational to commercial operations
- You want your registration to align clearly with bills, contracts, or compliance
Changing the endorsement ensures your documentation supports the real-world use of the vessel.