The "Safety Seal" or Vessel Safety Check is one of the foundation public outreach programs of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, designed to encourage boaters to ensure that their vessels are properly equipped with the required Federal safety equipment as well as any additional requirements of the state where the vessel is in use. The Vessel Safety Check was previously known as the Courtesy Marine Examination (CME) program.
These examinations are provided to any boat owner wishing to have a free, courtesy check of their boat’s safety equipment. While performing the Vessel Safety Check or the PWC Safety Check, Auxiliary Vessel Examiners conduct a “one-on-one” educational session with the boat owner, providing the owner with an opportunity to ask questions and obtain the latest information on safety equipment and regulations which affect the recreational boater. Vessel Safety Checks and PWC Safety Checks are free examinations of your boat and safety equipment by a qualified U.S.C.G Auxiliary Vessel Examiner.
To view the requirements for the VSC, click here.
If you'd like to schedule a VSC on your vessel, send us an e-mail or see the CONTACTS Page for Vessel Exams.