U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) documented vessels that have been in North Carolina for more than 90 consecutive days, must be registered in the state. However, federal law restricts states from issuing titles for documented vessels since the USCG issues a Certificate of Documentation (COD) to owners of documented vessels which supersede a state title. To register your documented vessel you will need to submit the following:

  • Completed VL-1 Form (PDF).
  • Copy of your Certificate of Documentation. Do not send the original COD as this document should be kept for your records.
  • Appropriate fee for registration only.

USCG Documented vessels can be registered for a period of 1 or 3 years but cannot be titled. You may register your vessel by mail or in person at a local Wildlife Service Agent.

If you have purchased a U.S. Coast Guard documented vessel, please follow the link listed below for additional instructions.