Inspection and Certification – U.S. Coast Guard Small Passenger Vessel Regulations, Department of Homeland Security (Updated August 5, 2025) (U.S. Coast ... Regulations (2025 Edition) Book 6)

Inspection and Certification – U.S. Coast Guard Small Passenger Vessel RegulationsIntroductionThe United States Code of Federal Regulations Title 46, Part 176, titled Inspection and Certification, outlines the U.S. Coast Guard’s (USCG) regulatory framework for inspecting and certifying small passenger vessels under 100 gross tons. These rules ensure vessel safety and operational readiness by detailing when inspections are required, what certificates are necessary, the standards for these inspections, and the procedures for maintaining compliance. The regulations are current as of August 5, 2025.Table of ContentsSubpart A: General Provisions; Certificate of InspectionSubpart B: Special Permits and CertificatesSubpart C: Posting of Certificates, Permits, and Stability LettersSubpart D: Inspection for CertificationSubpart E: ReinspectionSubpart F: Hull and Tailshaft ExaminationsSubpart G: Repairs and AlterationsSubpart H: Material InspectionsSubpart I: International SOLAS ComplianceChapter SummariesSubpart A – General Provisions; Certificate of InspectionDefines the preemptive authority of federal regulations, requiring vessels to maintain a valid Certificate of Inspection (COI). It outlines what the COI must detail: vessel description, permitted routes, passenger limits, safety equipment, and manning requirements. Temporary certificates may be issued when necessary.Subpart B – Special Permits and CertificatesDetails the issuance of special operational permits, including Permit to Proceed and Permit to Carry Excursion Party, allowing temporary deviations from standard certifications under specific circumstances.Subpart C – Posting of CertificatesSpecifies requirements for displaying the COI and associated stability letters onboard vessels. Also introduces certification expiration stickers for ongoing compliance monitoring.Subpart D – Inspection for CertificationOutlines the procedures for both initial and recurring inspections. Vessels must submit an application using Form CG-3752 before construction or modification. The OCMI ensures compliance based on design, equipment, and successful inspections.Subpart E – ReinspectionEstablishes the need for reinspection when certain conditions are met. Continued validity of a COI depends on compliance and condition of the vessel as determined during periodic inspections.Subpart F – Hull and Tailshaft ExaminationsPrescribes intervals for drydock and internal structural examinations. Includes options for Underwater Survey in Lieu of Drydocking (UWILD) and the Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) Program using divers or ROVs, with detailed eligibility and procedural requirement Read more