Vessel Documentation Filing Guidelines
How and when to submit USCG vessel documentation filings with step by step instructions.
BoatWiki - Guidelines
Introduction
The National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC) offers two options for filing applications, recordings, and other items. They can be sent either by email or regular mail. Faxing is no longer an option. All submissions can now consist of copies without the need to follow up with the originals. This includes a builder's certification which is no longer restricted. Supporting forms and other items related these guidelines can be found in the WikiTags/Links.
Step 1 - Prepare the filings for submission.
All submissions must be rendered on standard 8.5" x 11" letter size documents and the font size must be at least 10 points. These should be prefaced with a transmittal letter detailing the contact information and each item to be included. Any required payments must also be included in the form of a personal check or through a credit card payment form. Do not send cash.
Step 2 - Send by the regular mail option.
Submissions sent by regular mail should be addressed directly to the National Vessel Documentation Center as shown on the transmittal form. The NVDC will now accept copies of all items without the need for a follow up. The originals may be retained for your permanent records.
Step 3 - Send by the email option.
When using this option, all items must be scanned or copied and then saved as Adobe PDF files. Most computers and printers have a built in option for doing this. Free converters can also be found by searching the internet. Do not combine different types of filings into one contiguous file as this may be too large for the NVDC to process. They should be attached to the email as separate files. Emails should be sent to a special NVDC PDF filing address as shown on the transmittal. There is no need to follow up by sending the originals.
Step 4 - Follow up to confirm receipt.
If filings are sent by email, the NVDC will issue an automated response. However, they will not respond to submissions sent by regular mail. You will then need to run an NVDC filing status check or contact the NVDC by telephone to confirm the receipt.
Conclusion
Although all submissions gain priority according to the time of receipt, they will be rendered into a queue for subsequent processing. The NVDC filing backlog report will offer an estimation of how long this may take. Please help your fellow boaters by wiki-sharing any comments or experiences with these guidelines.
Credits and References
7/13/2022. - Page initiated by Team BoatWiki.
