boat documentation and registration US On the other hand, federal documentation is managed by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) through the National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC). This system provides an official certificate proving the vessel’s nationality and ownership. Federally documented vessels carry an official number permanently affixed to the interior of the hull, rather than external registration numbers. Visit : https://usvesselregistrar.us/a-little-background-on-boat-registration-in-the-united-states/