Certificate of Documentation (COD)

  • Tugboats over 5 net tons used in commercial operations (e.g., towing for hire) generally require COD, issued by the USCG National Vessel Documentation Center. It establishes vessel nationality, allows coastwise trade, and aids in financing Vessel Registrar LLC.

  • CODs expire and must be renewed—vessel owners select a 1–5 year term (with renewals now being 5-year only since 2022) https://www.boatus.com.

  • To obtain COD: submit application (CG-1258), proof of ownership (e.g., bill of sale, builder’s certificate, state title), and possibly simplified tonnage measurement (CG-5397) https://www.boatus.comBoatSafe.

  • Vessel must be properly marked with official number, name, and hailing port per USCG regulations. https://www.boatsafe.com/documenting-vessel/

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WA State Registration & Title