As soon as you’ve received your documentation number. By that same token, if you’re asking this in the context of: “do I need to,” then, you must if your vessel is or will be engaged in commercial fishing and/or coastwise operations (transporting people or merchandise) on the navigable waters of the United States or the EEZ, your vessel measures at least five net tons, and is wholly owned by an American citizen.
To go into greater detail, if you’re a vessel owner in the United States, at some point you’ve likely heard the term “Coast Guard Registry.” This refers to the official registration of vessels with the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC). Registration is required for certain types of vessels and provides a legal way to establish ownership, prove nationality, and authorize particular uses of the vessel, such as commercial activity or international travel.
When Does a Vessel Need to Be Documented?
A vessel must be documented under the Coast Guard Registry in the following circumstances:
- If It’s Commercial and Over Five Net Tons
If you use your vessel for commercial purposes—like fishing, chartering, or transporting goods or passengers—and it measures over five net tons (usually about 25 feet or more in length), federal documentation is mandatory. - If It’s Recreational and You Choose to Document It
While state registration is usually sufficient for recreational boats, many owners choose federal documentation for reasons like easier international travel, establishing ownership for lenders, or simply maintaining consistency across state lines. - If Required by a Lienholder or Lender
Financing institutions often require documentation through the Coast Guard Registry so that their lien can be recorded with the federal government, ensuring legal recognition and protection.
What Is the Coast Guard Registry?
The Coast Guard Registry is the federal system for documenting eligible vessels in the United States. Overseen by the National Vessel Documentation Center, this registry is typically used by commercial vessels over five net tons and by recreational vessels that meet certain requirements.
Once a vessel is registered, it receives a documentation number and is issued a Certificate of Documentation (COD). This number must be visibly and permanently marked on the vessel’s interior, and certain other information—such as the vessel’s name and hailing port—must be properly displayed on the exterior.
What Are the Marking Requirements for Documented Vessels?
If your vessel is documented with the Coast Guard Registry, federal law mandates that you clearly and permanently display your official number and tonnage inside the vessel. In addition:
- The Official Number must be preceded by the abbreviation “NO.” (e.g., NO. 1234567).
- The marking must be at least three inches high, block-style, and affixed in a way that removal would cause damage.
- The vessel’s name and hailing port must be marked on the exterior hull (typically on the stern), using letters of at least four inches in height.
Why Is Proper Marking So Important?
Beyond simple compliance, proper vessel marking serves several crucial purposes:
- Verification – It provides clear identification in case of inspection or enforcement checks.
- Security – It helps recover lost or stolen vessels more easily.
- Insurance & Financing – Correct markings are often a condition for securing marine insurance or satisfying a lender.
- Navigation & Travel – Particularly for international voyages, visible documentation confirms legal operation status and national registry.
What Happens If I Don’t Mark My Vessel Correctly?
Failure to comply with Coast Guard Registry marking regulations can result in:
- Fines or penalties during Coast Guard inspections.
- Delays in processing documentation renewals or transfers.
- Denial of entry to foreign ports.
- Void insurance policies if an incident occurs while non-compliant.
Avoiding these complications is easy when you have the right tools—like the vessel placards and high-quality marking solutions offered by Vessel Placards.
What Products Can Help Me Mark My Vessel for the Coast Guard Registry?
At Vessel Placards, we offer durable, legally compliant placards that simplify the process of vessel documentation marking. Whether your boat is new to the registry or you’re replacing worn-out displays, we have a variety of materials tailored for marine environments:
Hardwood Placards
Hardwood Placard – VesselPlacards.com
Crafted from high-quality hardwood and laser-engraved with precision, these placards offer a timeless aesthetic and ensure your documentation number stands out. The engraved block letters meet Coast Guard standards and provide an upscale look ideal for yachts, leisure vessels, and well-maintained cruisers.
Features:
- Durable hardwood construction
- Deep laser engraving for permanent markings
- Meets all federal requirements for size and legibility
- Attractive finish suitable for visible cabin areas
Stainless Steel Placards
Stainless Steel Placard – VesselPlacards.com
If your vessel endures rougher waters or operates in challenging environments, stainless steel placards provide maximum resilience. These are designed for heavy-duty vessels, commercial operations, and boats that prioritize function without sacrificing style.
Features:
- Marine-grade stainless steel that resists rust and corrosion
- Clear, precision-etched lettering
- Tamper-evident mounting options available
- Sleek, industrial appearance with extreme longevity
Marine-Grade HDPE Placards
Marine-Grade HDPE – VesselPlacards.com
Ideal for saltwater exposure and long-term durability, HDPE placards are the low-maintenance solution for boaters who need a reliable, cost-effective way to stay compliant. They’re easy to install, and the engraved markings remain legible through years of use.
Features:
- UV-resistant and corrosion-proof
- Lightweight yet highly durable
- Meets all Coast Guard Registry marking standards
- Available in various sizes and colors for custom applications
Remember: even after your Certificate of Documentation is issued, you are still required to permanently affix your vessel’s official number inside the hull. A quality placard from Vessel Placards ensures that:
- Your markings remain compliant over time
- You avoid hand-painted or inconsistent markings
- Your boat’s interior maintains a clean, professional look
Can I Customize My Placard?
Absolutely. All placards from Vessel Placards can be customized to match your specific documentation number, vessel name, and tonnage. Simply input the required information during the ordering process, and our team will produce a compliant placard that’s ready for immediate installation.
Customization options include:
- Font style and size (in compliance with Coast Guard standards)
- Material selection: hardwood, stainless steel, or HDPE
- Color options (HDPE)
- Mounting methods: adhesive backing, screw holes, or flush mounting
Are Your Products Made in the USA?
Yes. All of our placards are proudly made in the United States using high-grade materials and skilled craftsmanship. This ensures quality, durability, and compliance every time you order from us.
Do You Offer More Than Just Placards?
Yes! Alongside our vessel placards, Vessel Placards also offers marine-themed glassware, including:
- Custom mugs
- Engraved drinking glasses
- Nautical designs ideal for personal use or gifting
Whether you’re outfitting your galley or looking for a keepsake, our drinkware complements the elegance and practicality of your vessel.
What Makes Vessel Placards the Right Choice?
Vessel Placards is not just another signage company. We specialize in marine-specific solutions that hold up under extreme conditions. Whether you’re sailing the coastlines or docked in a marina, our products offer:
- Reliability – All placards are made from durable, weather-resistant materials.
- Compliance – Designed to meet or exceed Coast Guard Registry regulations.
- Visual Appeal – Stylish and professional-grade designs to complement any vessel.
- Convenience – Easy online ordering and fast shipping across the U.S.
- Multi-Use – In addition to placards, we offer high-quality mugs and cups perfect for onboard or home use.
To recap, you need to mark your vessel for the Coast Guard Registry when:
- You operate a commercial vessel over five net tons
- You choose to federally document your recreational boat
- A lender or financial institution requires it
- You plan to take your vessel into international waters
Once documented, permanent interior markings and exterior name/port markings are legally required. Vessel Placards makes this process simple, stylish, and compliant with a full range of options, including hardwood, stainless steel, and marine-grade HDPE placards.