So, what do you need to know about US Vessel Registration in 2022? You should be aware of a few things if you are the owner of a USCG-documented vessel, whether you are a new or existing owner or a prospective owner, before 2022. Registered vessels’ registrations will expire on December 31st, 2020, and must be renewed to keep their papers in good working condition.
Early registration (before June 30th) is permitted without penalty, so don’t wait until the last minute to renew your registration! Are you doing all you can to keep your boat safe while on the water? In the event of an emergency, do you have the necessary equipment? Being informed on what is expected of your registered vessel, whether you are a novice or an experienced boater, will ensure that you are well equipped. Let us have a look at some of the most important statistics.
Vessels That Are US-Flagged Have a Gross Tonnage Of Above 5 Net Tons or Are Mechanically Propelled Must Be Registered In the US
Every owner of a vessel that has been documented by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) is required to follow specific rules while registering their vessel. Even if you own an elderly tugboat, the restrictions will impact your operation. Vessels that are: US-flagged, have a gross tonnage of more than five net tons, or are propelled by mechanical power must be registered in the United States according to mass.gov. Motor vessel registration renewal will need the submission of all Factory Mutual-issued vessel documents, including hull design and building blueprints, damage stability reports, builder’s warranty, the marine survey report, and a new marine survey report.
US Vessel Registration Is Valid For 3 Years and Must Be Renewed Before the Expiration Date
Yachts, boats, and ships (USCG-documented vessels) more than 24 years old must be registered with the state. After receiving an application that includes all of the required documentation (sometimes referred to as form CG-1261), proof of ownership, payment of a 67 cent registration fee, and any applicable recording fees, the United States Coast Guard may register the vessel and issue an initial 3-year certificate of documentation.
US vessel registration is valid for three years, however, if you renew early (before June 30th), you will be able to extend your registration for an extra year without incurring any fees. There’s also the option of filing for a permanent extension, which is only granted if you’ve consistently operated your yacht in our nation for more than ten years and the vessel is less than 15 years old.
Vessel Registration Is Required For All Boats Measuring Over 26 Feet in Length
Registration is required for all vessels measuring 26 feet or more in length. Still, the good news is that regulations have become more relaxed since the early 1980s, and most any vessel with a valid Certificate of Inspection (COI) is likely to comply with the requirements for vessel registration in most cases. You must still carry a paper registration decal and paint or indicate your registration number on either side of your boat if you do not have a transponder on board your boat.
Vessels smaller than 26 feet in length are exempt from the need for USCG paperwork. The documentation of small fishing boats, barges, and dinghies must be done the same way as the documentation of big boats and ships. Please keep in mind that recreational boats such as fishing skiffs and dinghies are exempt from the need for documentation.
You Can Apply For Vessel Registration Online or By Mail
Some individuals like to do things the old-fashioned way. Renewing by mail is another option. If you’re sending your renewal fee through check or money order, please allow extra time for delivery (particularly around the holidays). Since the Jones Act of 1914 was passed, people registered their boats. The US Coast Guard has been recording ships for more than 100 years.
During the last several years, online US vessel registration applications have been more popular with the USCG. It says “Apply Now!” in bold green letters across the top of the official website for the vessel registration page. However, since the USCG is so convinced that most people are aware of online US vessel registration, they are allowed to utilize such large buttons.
Perhaps this will help clarify the complicated matter of vessel registration renewal in the United States and provide some insight into what owners can anticipate until 2022. For any more concerns concerning vessel registration or help renewing your current vessel, don’t hesitate to contact the Vessel Documentation Center at 866-981-8783 or visit their website.