(a) Eligibility. The Director shall restrict the appointment as Agent to qualified applicants. Each applicant shall establish that eligibility according to procedures that may be obtained from MARAD and shall:

(1) Be a Citizen of the United States, as defined in § 315.3(b) of this part;

(2) Demonstrate the necessary ability, experience and resources as an operator of vessels or ports, or shoreside husbander of vessels; and

(3) Continue to meet all such requirements throughout the term of the appointment.

(b) Procedures. Information about procedures for appointment as General Agent, Berth Agent or Ship Manager may be obtained from, and inquiries and other written communications shall be submitted to, the Maritime Administration, Attn: Office of Acquisition, MAR-383, Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC 20590, tel. (202)366-1943. Inquiries should be made during normal business hours.

(c) Approval. After final approval of an Agent by MARAD, the contracting office shall transmit the Service Agreement or Ship Manager contract to the Agent for execution and return to MARAD.

(d) Agreements. The standard text of the Service Agreement and Ship Manager Contract may be obtained from the Office of Acquisition at the address appearing in paragraph (b) of this section, by mail or in person during normal business hours.