§12302 Standard numbering system

Summary

The Secretary must create a standard system for numbering vessels. A State can ask to use its own system, and the Secretary must approve it if it matches the federal standard. States must use any key word definitions the Secretary sets. If a State’s system is approved, that State issues the numbers. If not, the Secretary issues them for that State. A vessel numbered in one State meets numbering rules when used temporarily in another State. If a vessel moves its main operation to a new State, that State must accept the old number for 60 days. If the Secretary assigned a number before a State got approval, the State must accept that number for one year. The Secretary can withdraw approval after giving the State written notice and reasons if the State stops following the standard or changes without approval.