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SECURITY LEVELS

A.1 Vessel Safety Checks

What are USCGAUX Free Vessel Safety Checks? An example of a sticker you will receive when you pass a vessel safety inspection

From the smallest paddle craft to the largest seagoing vessel, the U.S Coast Guard would like to see all vessels in compliance with equipment carriage requirements and safely operated. If you are uncertain about the Federal, State and Local safety requirements for your boat, one way to make sure you are in compliance is to schedule a Vessel Safety Check (VSC), offered as a free public service by qualified Vessel Examiners of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. At the conclusion of the VSC, you will be provided with a report of your vessel's compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations regarding boating safety features and equipment.

What's In it For Me?

Vessels passing safety checks are awarded a U.S. Coast Guard / Auxiliary Decal that informs: 
  • Coast Guard / Auxiliary
  • Harbor Patrol
  • Sheriff''s Office & Police
  • other boating law-enforcement & safety agency's

that your boat was in full compliance with all Federal and State boating laws during a safety check for that year. 

What if my vessel does not earn an inspection decal?

No worries. Be assured that if your boat does not earn its decal for any reason, nothing is reported (except to you). You will simply be given a report listing the deficiencies found, along with encouragement to make corrections on your own. Your boat may also be re-checked at your request at some convenient time in the future. 

What Type of Items Are Checked? 

The items checked vary based on the type and size of your watercraft. A non-exhaustive list of sample items is included below.

  • Life Jackets
  • Registration and numbering
  • Navigation lights
  • Ventilation
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Distress signals (flares, horn, etc.)
  • Battery cover and connections

If you prefer to work with apps, download the free UNITED STATES COAST GUARD APP for your iOS or Android device.With that you will be able to Review Safety Equipment based upon the characteristics of your particular boat.

OK I’m interested in having my vessel safety checked, what do I do now?
That’s easy. You have three options
  • Go online to LINK TO USCG VESSEL SAFETY CHECKS and click “Get Started”, and a qualified Examiner will be in touch with you based upon the location of your boat.
  • Use the USCG app you downloaded above to “Request a Safety Check”:
  • Show up at one of our scheduled examination events listed in the calendar here.
If you are ready to get a vessel exam, below are the places and times we will be offering free vessel exams: LINK TO VSE CALENDAR