Vessel Safety check

What is a Vessel Safety Check?

Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a courtesy examination of your boat (vessel) to verify the presence and condition of certain safety equipment required by state and federal regulations. The volunteer VSC examiner may also make recommendations and discuss safety issues that can make you a safer boater. No citations will be given if the boat does not pass. The examiner will supply you with a copy of the evaluation so that you may follow up with any recommendations. Vessels that pass the examination will be able to display the distinctive VSC decal. The decal does not exempt boaters from law enforcement boarding but indicates to boarding officers that the boat has been examined and found to be in compliance with safety equipment regulations.

What agency is responsible for performing a Vessel Safety Check?  

The volunteer Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist and a member of either the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, United States Power Squadrons, or in some cases state volunteer examiners.

How can I get my recreational vessel inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary?  

Visit the Vessel Safety Check website at: http://www.safetyseal.net. Click on the tab labeled "I want a VSC." Enter your 5-digit ZIP Code and the program will search the database to locate examiners closest to your location.