A coastwise endorsement may be issued for a vessel that—
(1) satisfies the requirements of section 12103 of this title;
if not built in the United States—
(A) was built in the United States; or
(B) if not built in the United States— (i) was captured in war by citizens of the United States and lawfully condemned as prize; (ii) was adjudged to be forfeited for a breach of the laws of the United States; or (iii) qualifies as a wrecked vessel under section 12107 of this title; and
(3) otherwise qualifies under the laws of the United States to engage in the coastwise trade.
Subject to the laws of the United States regulating the coastwise trade, a vessel for which a coastwise endorsement is issued may engage in the coastwise trade.
(Pub. L. 109–304, § 5, Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1495.)