This will document the yacht as a vessel of the United States, but it will not exempt it from any applicable State or Federal taxes. Furthermore, the fact that the yacht is documented will not excuse the owner from complying with safety and equipment regulations of the Federal or State governments in the State in which the vessel is used. It covers all safety equipment requirements and other topics of interest to recreational boaters. The pamphlet explains requirements for personal flotation devices, visual distress signals, fire extinguishers, ventilation, backfire flame control, sound producing devices, marine sanitation devices, navigation lights, shapes and lights, as well as navigation rules, FCC regulations, and pollution regulations. You should also contact your State Boating Law Administrator for your local safety requirements.
Operator licensing for boats is a State function.
We strongly recommend that all novice boaters, adult or youngster, take advantage of a boating safety course. Keep in mind that the boat must be numbered or registered with the State. They are expected to comply with the same safety standards and administrative regulations as regular boat manufacturers. Failure to do so could affect their insurance coverage and make them vulnerable in a liability suit. A HIN will be issued by the State Boating Law Administrator of the State in which the builder lives.