Want Offshore Oil Leases? Prove You're Qualified First.
Published Date: 8/21/2026
Notice
Summary
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) wants to collect new info from companies that want to bid on or run offshore leases or grants. This helps BOEM make sure only qualified folks get involved, keeping things fair and smooth. If you’re in this business, you’ve got until October 20, 2026, to share your thoughts on the new rules—no extra fees yet, just a heads-up for better paperwork.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Single Required BOEM Qualification Form
If you want to bid on, hold, or operate a lease or grant on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS), BOEM is introducing a mandatory form (Form BOEM-0153) to get a qualification number under 30 CFR 556, Subpart D. The form consolidates multiple certificates and resolutions into one submission, is filed once per applicant, and is meant to streamline and speed BOEM's review.
No New Time or Cost Burden for Applicants
BOEM estimates 50 annual responses to Form BOEM-0153, with an estimated burden of 1 hour per response (50 total annual hours). BOEM says these hours are already accounted for under OMB Control Number 1010-0006, is requesting a new OMB control number (1010-NEW) for the form, and expects no additional non-hour costs.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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