46 U.S.C. § 3311: Certificate of inspection required

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a vessel subject to inspection under this part may not be operated without having on board a certificate of inspection issued under section 3309 of this title. (b) The Secretary may direct the owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, or individual in charge of a vessel subject to inspection under this chapter and not having on board a certificate of inspection—(1) to have the vessel proceed to mooring and remain there until a certificate of inspection is issued; (2) to take immediate steps necessary for the safety of the vessel, individuals on board the vessel, or the environment; or (3) to have the vessel proceed to a place to make repairs necessary to obtain a certificate of inspection.