A UPV is not a RECREATIONAL VESSEL; It is a COMMERCIAL VESSEL 

Unispected does not mean Unregulated 

What is an Uninspected Passenger Vessel (UPV)

An uninspected passenger vessel is any vessel (typically under 100 gross tons) carrying six or fewer passengers for hire.  The type of vessel does not matter, but the fact that one or more persons pay for passage determines whether a vessel falls under the UPV requirements. The term “uninspected” refers to the provision under the Passenger Vessel Act of 1993 that vessels carrying six or fewer passengers do not require an inspection by the Coast Guard.  They are still expected to comply with the law and carry all required equipment and have a licensed master.  

The Auxiliary provides a complementary safety examination for Uninspected Passenger Vessels, and similar to a recreational Vessel Safety Check, educates the owner/master concerning compliance with the regulations. Vessels that pass the examination will receive a UPV decal for display on the vessel.  Vessels that fail will be given a list of deficiencies, but no enforcement action is taken.

To schedule an exam, call Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound at:

 206 217-6180

Tools

UPV Exam Booklet (PDF - 208 KB)

UPV Exam Guidelines (PDF - 486 KB)