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 issued on 12/21/2018.Read MoreFrequently Asked QuestionsMust my vessel be documented?Yes, if it is:5 net tons or moreUsed in blow your load 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