How do I get a U.S. cruising license?


How do I get a U.S. cruising license? Cruising licenses are obtainable from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Port Director at the first port of arrival in the United States.


How long can a foreign flagged vessel stay in the US?

The Cruising Licence does however make clear that the boat can only stay in the USA for a maximum of 12 months and that it is illegal to offer the boat for sale to a US citizen within the USA without paying Import duties. The definition of ?Within the USA? is important as shown below.


What do I need to cross US border by boat?

For each person on board:
  1. Name.
  2. Date of Birth.
  3. Passport, NEXUS, FAST card, Enhanced Drivers Licence or Secure Certificate of Indian Status.
  4. Boat Registration or licence number.
  5. Boat name.
  6. Boat length.
  7. CBP decal number for vessels 30+ feet.
  8. Dinghy licence and papers.