Answers to Your Questions About the New OTI License Renewal Program

The May 31^st renewal deadline for the new Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Ocean Transportation Intermediary licensing program is fast approaching. As you probably know, on November 4, 2015, the FMC issued a Final Rule involving various aspects of its regulations affecting Ocean Transportation Intermediaries (OTIs). As a result, OTIs are now required to renew their license every three (3) years. Many of you have questions regarding this new policy, so we put together some answers to some commonly asked questions.

Q: How do you complete the renewal?
A: All license renewals must be completed online via the FMC’s portal.

Q: How do I determine my renewal date?
A: Renewal deadlines are determined by the last and next to last digits in your license number. The FMC is beginning with OTIs whose licenses expire in May of 2017. For example, if your license number is 654321 your expiration date is January 2020.

Q: What if I don’t know my license number?
A: You can find your OTI license number on the FMC website.  

Q: When and how will I be notified by the FMC?
A: Approximately 90 days prior to the license renewal date, the FMC will notify the OTI via email.  It is imperative that you ensure your email is current with the FMC and that your email spam settings do not block emails from OTI@fmc.gov. If you are not certain what email address is on file with the FMC, send them an email at OTI@fmc.gov with your email address and reference your license number.

Q: Where can I find more information?
A: Click here to access a copy of a detailed presentation prepared by the FMC.

Q: What if I need help with the renewal?
A: An OTI can designate a third party to complete the renewal on their behalf so long as the third party is an FMC Practitioner or an Attorney. You may wish to contact a participating attorney in our Trade Risk Review Program.

Roanoke Trade continues to keep a close watch on regulatory changes that affect your industry and we are committed to keeping you up to date regarding these important issues. For more information about our products and services, contact one of our Roanoke Trade professionals at 1.800.ROANOKE (800-762- 6653).