46 USC 12502 - Identification numbers, signal letters, and markings

U.S Code last checked for updates: May 16, 2024

§ 12502.

Identification numbers, signal letters, and markings

(a)

For the identification of a vessel of the United States, the Secretary of Transportation—

(1)

shall maintain a unique numbering system and assign a number to each vessel of the United States;

(2)

may maintain a system of signal letters for a documented vessel;

(3)

shall record a name selected by the owner of a documented vessel approved by the Secretary as the vessel’s name of record; and

(4)

may establish other identification markings.

(b)

The manufacturer or owner of a vessel shall affix to the vessel and maintain in the manner prescribed by the Secretary the number assigned and any other markings the Secretary may require.

(c)

Once a number is assigned under this section, it may not be used by another vessel.

(d)

Once a documented vessel’s name is established, the name may not be changed without the approval of the Secretary.

(e)

A person may not tamper with or falsify a number or other marking required under this section.

(Added Pub. L. 100–710, title I, § 101(a), Nov. 23, 1988, 102 Stat. 4736.)

cite as: 46 USC 12502