The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) states that most commercial vessels must have an adjusted and properly operating magnetic compass at its steering station. Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) requires that the magnetic compass be adjusted after the following conditions:

a.) compass is first installed;

b.) compass become unreliable;

c.) the ship undergoes structural repairs or alterations that could affect its permanent and induced magnetism;

d.) electrical or magnetic equipment close to the compass is added, removed or altered; or,

e.) a period of two years has elapsed since the last adjustment and a record of compass deviations has not been maintained, or the recorded deviations are excessive or when the compass shows physical defects.

The USCG has compasses on their vessels adjusted annually.

A prudent mariner assures that all vessel equipment is in proper working condition and can be relied upon.