We have combined the International and Inland Navigation Rules on this site so comparison between the two sets of Rules is easier. If you have any questions about the formatting, please read the Explanation of Layout.
All efforts have been made to ensure these Online Navigation Rules are complete and accurate however the U.S. Coast Guard makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this web site and expressly disclaims liability for errors and omissions in the contents of this web site. Those seeking official versions of the Navigation Rules should refer to the International Navigational Rules Act of 1977 (Public Law 95-75, 91 Stat. 308, or 33 U.S.C. 1601-1608), and, the Inland Navigation Rules Act of 1980 (Public Law 96-591, 94 Stat. 3415, 33 U.S.C. 2001-2038).

Navigation Rules and Regulations

Part A - General

Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules

Section/Subpart I - Conduct of Vessels in Any Condition of Visibility.

Rule 4 - Application
Rule 5 - Look-Out
Rule 6 - Safe Speed
Rule 7 - Risk of Collision
Rule 8 - Action to Avoid Collision
Rule 9 - Narrow Channels
Rule 10 - Traffic Separation Schemes/Vessel Traffic Services

Section/Subpart II - Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another

Rule 11 - Application
Rule 12 - Sailing Vessels
Rule 13 - Overtaking
Rule 14 - Head-on Situation
Rule 15 - Crossing Situation
Rule 16 - Action by Give-way Vessel
Rule 17 - Action by Stand-on Vessel
Rule 18 - Responsibilities Between Vessels

Rule 19 - Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility

Rule 20 - Application
Rule 21 - Definitions (Arcs of Visibility Visual)
Rule 22 - Visibility of Lights
Rule 23 - Power-driven Vessels Underway
Rule 24 - Towing and Pushing
Rule 25 - Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels Under Oars
Rule 26 - Fishing Vessels
Rule 27 - Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Their Ability to Maneuver
Rule 28 - Vessels Constrained by Their Draft
Rule 29 - Pilot Vessels
Rule 30 - Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground
Rule 31 - Seaplanes

Part D - Sound and Light Signals

Part E - Exemptions

Rule 38 - Exemptions (International / Inland)

Annexes, Interpretative Rules, and other associated Navigation Regulations

Annex I - Positioning and Technical Details of Lights and Shapes - (International / Inland)
Annex II - Additional Signals for Fishing Vessels Fishing in Close Proximity - (International / Inland)
Annex III - Technical Details of Sound Appliances - (International / Inland)
Annex IV - Distress Signals - (International / Inland)
Annex V - Pilot Signals - (Inland Only)

Interpretive Rules - (International / Inland)

COLREGS Demarcation Lines

Penalty Provisions

Alternate Compliance

Waters Specified by the Secretary

Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Regulations

Table 26.03(f) - Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) call signs, designated frequencies, and monitoring areas.