From January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2021 renewal costs $26 a year and recreational boaters can select a validity period, from one to five years. Beginning January 1, 2022 recreational Certificates of Documentation will only be issued for a validity period of five years.

Does Coast Guard documentation expire?

You must renew your documentation every year to remain valid. However, it is easy to forget about renewing your documentation. You can rest easy since the Coast Guard has put plans in place to help you renew your expired documentation.

How long is a certificate of documentation good for?

Since 1920, vessel financing has been enhanced through the availability of preferred mortgages on documented vessels. A Certificate of Documentation is valid for 1-5 years from the date of issue, and must be renewed on an annual basis unless the multi-year renewal fees are submitted.