Documented Vessels
Owning a vessel is an exciting experience, but it also comes with legal requirements, including proper documentation and registration. Whether you need to document a new boat with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), transfer ownership, or renew your registration, Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida is here to assist. Our team simplifies the process, ensuring all paperwork is completed correctly and on time.
What is Vessel Documentation?
Vessel documentation is a federal registration system managed by the U.S. Coast Guard. Unlike state registration, documented vessels receive a Certificate of Documentation (COD), which serves as proof of ownership and compliance with federal laws. This certification is beneficial for vessels used in international waters and is often required by lenders when financing a boat purchase.
Benefits of Vessel Documentation
- Establishes proof of U.S. nationality for international travel
- Provides easier access to marine financing options
- Ensures compliance with federal boating regulations
- Offers legal protection against fraudulent claims and disputes
If you need to document your vessel, Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida can handle the process for you.
Who is Eligible for Vessel Documentation?
Not all boats qualify for USCG documentation. To be eligible, a vessel must:
- Be at least five net tons in size (typically 25 feet or longer)
- Be owned by a U.S. citizen or entity
- Be used for commercial or recreational purposes
If your boat meets these criteria, you can apply for documentation. However, some states may still require registration even if your vessel is documented. For instance, a documented vessel needs to be registered in Florida if it has been on the state’s waters for more than 90 days. Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida can help determine your eligibility and ensure compliance with both state and federal regulations.
Vessel Title Transfers and State Registration
If you are buying or selling a boat, a title transfer is required to establish legal ownership. Whether your vessel is federally documented or state-registered, completing a title transfer properly prevents future legal disputes.
Our title and registration services include the following.
- Title transfers for new and used boats
- Registration for documented and state-registered vessels
- Lien searches and ownership verification
- Duplicate titles for lost or damaged documents
Renewal and Maintenance of Vessel Documentation
The USCG requires vessel documentation to be renewed annually. If your documentation expires, you may face penalties or restrictions on your boat’s legal status. Our team ensures your documentation stays up to date with:
- Annual renewals to maintain legal compliance
- Change of ownership updates
- Name and hailing port modifications
- Reinstatement of expired documentation
Don’t risk delays — renew your vessel documentation with Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida before it expires.
Get Started with Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida
Whether you need to document a new vessel, transfer a boat title, or renew your registration, Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida is here to help. Our professional team helps you experience a smooth and stress-free process. Call us now to schedule your vessel documentation service or visit our office for fast and professional assistance!