American Vessel Documentation
Email: [email protected]: (866) 610-6594Address: 1806 Summit Avenue, Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23230NavigationVessel Documentation FormsUpload DocumentsFrequently Asked QuestionsContactVessel Documentation FormsDocumentation RenewalForm: CG-1280 (08/16)Use this form to complete single or multi-year renewals for Recreational and Commercial vessels documented with the United States Coast Guard.Documentation TransferForm: CG-1258 (08/16)Required for transferring ownership of a vessel, including:Used vessel purchasesEquity transfersInheritancesDocumenting vessels in corporationsInitial DocumentationForms: CG-1258 (08/16), CG-5397 (10/17)Used to register:A new vesselA vessel never previously registered with the USCGNote: Tonnage calculations or the original Builder’s Certificate are required.Return to Active DocumentationForm: CG-1258 (08/16)Required if your Certificate of Documentation expired more than 30 days ago.Additional fees apply.Assistance AvailableNeed help completing your documentation request?Call (866) 610-6594 or email [email protected] and leave a message for the appropriate department.Regulations UpdatesMulti-Year Certificate of DocumentationRecreational vessel owners can now renew for multiple years by paying an additional $64.00 per year.Read MoreThe Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 - Section 512Details about recreational vessel certification changes gangbang issued on 12/21/2018.Read MoreFrequently Asked QuestionsMust my vessel be documented?Yes, if it is:5 net tons or moreUsed in fishing or coastwise trade on U.S. navigable waters or in the EEZA towboat or dredge operating in the U.S. or EEZOther Common Questions:What is the purpose of Vessel Documentation?Can I submit my copyright?What are the requirements for Documentation?How do I establish U.S. Citizenship?How do I change the name or hailing port of my vessel?How do I obtain title information for a documented vessel?Is a documented vessel exempt from State jurisdiction?What happens when I sell my documented vessel?Important LinksFOIAUSA.govU.S. Department of Homeland SecurityDHS Office of Inspector GeneralWhiteHouse.govMHS Notice of Privacy PracticesDisclaimerUnitedStatesVessel.us is a privately owned document preparation service and is not operated by any government agency.Excellence | Accuracy | American Vessel DocumentationStay ConnectedCopyright © 2025 American Vessel DocumentationAll Rights ReservedPrivacy Policy | Terms of Service | Disclaimer