Individual vehicle registration

This LAP analyses the procedure to be followed for individual vehicle registration. It contains information on the relevant authority, the documentary requirements for registration, as well as the time and costs associated with the procedure.

In general, ships and seagoing vessels are required to have an identification number recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and a registration identifying ownership, other liable parties, and shipbuilder. IMO numbers became mandatory through SOLAS regulation XI/3 of 1994, to improve maritime safety and security and to reduce maritime fraud. The regulation applies to cargo vessels that are at least 300 gross tons (gt) and passenger vessels of at least 100 gt. Registration in international or national ship registers are mandatory also for smaller ships/boats. Beside IMO requirements, a «Declaration of safety» issued by one of the approved classification societies and a set of Qualification requirements is commonly required.

Despite the lack of specific regulation to this effect, or of significant practical experiences, early research suggests that no distinction would exist between hydrogen fuel cell vessels and other vessels with conventional power systems.in terms of vehicle registration procedure.
While some waiting time as well as economic costs are involved, these are considered relatively small and would not be a result of the hydrogen and full cell character of the vessel (once type approved). As a result, individual vehicle registration is not considered a barrier.