((a)) ** .—** Except as otherwise provided, a certificate of documentation for a vessel may be issued under this chapter only if the vessel is—
((1)) wholly owned by one or more individuals or entities described in subsection (b);
((2)) at least 5 net tons as measured under part J of this subtitle; and
((3)) not documented under the laws of a foreign country.
((b)) ** .—** For purposes of subsection (a)(1), the following are eligible owners:
((1)) An individual who is a citizen of the United States.
((2)) An association, trust, joint venture, or other entity if—
((A)) each of its members is a citizen of the United States; and
((B)) it is capable of holding title to a vessel under the laws of the United States or a State.
((3)) A partnership if—
((A)) each general partner is a citizen of the United States; and
((B)) the controlling interest in the partnership is owned by citizens of the United States.
((4)) A corporation if—
((A)) it is incorporated under the laws of the United States or a State;
((B)) its chief executive officer, by whatever title, and the chairman of its board of directors are citizens of the United States; and
((C)) no more of its directors are noncitizens than a minority of the number necessary to constitute a quorum.
((5)) The United States Government.
((6)) The government of a State.
((c)) ** .—** Notwithstanding subsection (a)(2), the Secretary may issue a temporary certificate of documentation for a vessel before it is measured.
