COLREGS 2025: International & Inland Rules of the Road

Printed in Color

Includes Editorial Corrections made on August 8th, 2024; Rule 37. Latest edition as of June 8th, 2025.

This printed edition may be used to satisfy the “copy of these Rules” requirement under 33 CFR 83.01(g) or Inland Rule 1(g).

The International Rules in this book were formalized in the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, which became effective on July 15, 1977. Commonly called 72 COLREGS, these rules are binding on vessels flying the flags of states that ratified the treaty. All U.S. flag vessels must comply with these rules where applicable.

These Rules apply on waters outside established navigational lines of demarcation, known as COLREGS Demarcation Lines, which separate waters governed by Inland Rules from those governed by International Rules. Demarcation Lines are included in this handbook.

This handbook is a comprehensive compendium produced by the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Navigation Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, Washington, D.C. It includes:

• International and Inland Rules of the Road and their respective annexes
• Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Regulations
• Vessel Traffic Management Regulations

A must-have reference for all mariners navigating U.S. and international waters.

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