If you are a U.S. boater re-entering U.S. waters, be sure you have your annual CBP Decal sticker and are ready to provide the number to Customs. An annual fee for entry into the U.S. is required for private vessels 30 feet and over in order to clear customs. Foreign-flagged vessels with a “Cruising License” are exempt.
Payment is required at or before the vessel’s first arrival in U.S. waters each calendar year. Vessels less than 30 feet are not subject to the fee, provided they have nothing to declare. Think of this annual CBP Decal (User Fee) as a tax. The decal or sticker is your proof that the fee has been paid for the calendar year. Not having this annual CBP Decal when entering U.S. waters causes additional time for both Customs and the vessel owner. CBP (Customs Border Protection) has reported that boaters not having the required decal causes a great deal of grief for everyone.
The CBP User Fee Decal can be purchased online at https://dtops.cbp.dhs.gov, or by phone (317) 298-1245, or through the ROAM App. The decal expires on December 31 of its issue year. Renewal notices for the next year’s decal are mailed or emailed in the autumn.
U.S. boaters are reminded to order their CBP Decal sticker well before you need to enter the U.S. even if you have NEXUS, I-68, or Global Entry preclearance. Lack of a current-year sticker may direct you to a designated port of entry for inspection. The current cost for the CBP Decal is $34.83.
