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I Want A Vessel Exam

Complete This Form To Get a Free Vessel Safety Check

Name:
Address:
Zip Code:
Phone #:
 ()–
Email:
Date(s) and approximate time(s) requested:
My location  (home, marina or other)?

 

Put the date the Auxiliary was formed: 1939 here (anti-SPAM) before you click submit:
                             

 

FREE VESSEL SAFETY CHECKS

A Vessel Safety Check is conducted by a qualified examiner of the Untied States Coast Guard Auxiliary who will make sure your vessel complies with Federal and State boating requirements and then will issue you a sticker that indicates your vessel is "good to go" for the calendar year.  

What boats are eligible for a Vessel Safety Check?

Basically any privately owned water craft - power boats, sail boats, Personal Water Craft (Jet Skis), Kyaks, Canoes, Stand Up Paddle Boards, etc.

What is checked during a Vessel Safety Check?

The following items may, or may not, be part of the Vessel Safety Check based on the size of your boat, area of operations, and propulsion method.  The Vessel Examiner will know what is and isn't required.

 

  • Display of numbers*
  • Registration/documentation*
  • Personal Flotation Devices (Life Jackets)*
  • Visual Distress Signals
  • Fire Extinguishers*
  • Ventilation
  • Backfire Flame Control
  • Sound Producing Dives / Bell
  • Navigation Lights
  • Pollution Placard
  • MARPOL Trash Plackard / Written Trash Plan
  • Marine Sanitation Devices
  • Navigation Rules
  • State and/or Local Requirements 
* These items are, of course, almost always required

 

What happens if my boat doesn't pass?

You don't get a sticker - the inspector will advise you as to what you need and make arrangements to reinspect your boat after you correct the issue.  No reports are made to any law enforcement agency.

How much does this cost?

Its FREE! 

How do I get a Vessel Safety Check? 

If you live in the greater Saginaw Bay area (from Flint to the Tri-Cities and out the Thumb) fill in the form above and a local Vessel Examiner will contact you.  If you live outside of our area, click on this link to go to the National Vessel Exam site.

 

Remember to BOAT SAFE: 

Bring plenty to eat and drink – avoid dehydration.
Operate the boat in a safe and responsible manner.
Always wear a life jacket.
Take a boating safety course.

Sun, wind and temperatures can be more of a factor than boaters think.
Annual vessel safety check
File a float plan – leave it with someone who will take action if overdue.
Evaluate the readiness of operating crew and passengers – it's ok to not get underway when there's doubt.

Additional Information about Vessel Safety Checks

If you click on this link you will go to a clever virtual vessel safety check that can walk you through the items that are checked during an exam.  Much more information is on the Auxiliary National web site at this location.