Replacement of Certificate of Documentation [CG-1258]

Use this form to obtain a replacement Certificate of Documentation (COD) for a documented vessel in the U.S.

Eligibility:

  • Vessels must be currently documented with the U.S. Coast Guard.
  • Owners must provide valid proof of ownership and identification.

Benefits of This Form:

  • Legally replaces a lost, damaged, or stolen COD.
  • Ensures continued compliance with federal maritime regulations.
  • Maintains vessel eligibility for commercial operations, financing, and insurance.

National Documentation Portal Benefits:

  • Secure online submission for faster processing.

Do not use this form to document your vessel or renew documentation.

Replace Your Certificate of Documentation with Confidence

Losing or damaging your Certificate of Documentation isn’t just inconvenient—it can impact your legal status, vessel operations, or resale value. When you request a replacement, accuracy and timeliness matter. We help you submit correctly so your official registration is restored promptly.

A replacement document isn’t just a physical copy—it’s your legal proof of vessel documentation.

Why You Might Need a Replacement

You may need to request a new certificate if:

  • The original is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond legibility
  • It was destroyed in an accident, flood, fire, or disaster
  • You have identified a material error in the original document
  • You’re preparing for a sale, transfer, or compliance audit
  • You simply want a clean, updated certificate on file

Acting quickly helps you avoid enforcement, docking issues, or administrative delays.