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PEC regulations

The Pilotage Exemption Certificate (PEC) scheme is authorised in the Regulations on compulsory pilotage and the use of pilot exemption certificates (Compulsory Pilotage Regulations).

The Compulsory Pilotage Regulations

The Compulsory Pilotage Regulations were amended on 1 July 2020, and an updated version has been produced (in Norwegian only).

The Compulsory Pilotage Regulations - Unofficial translation

The most important changes are as follows:

  • Offshore vessels can use a Class 3 PEC for the carriage of limited quantities of hazardous liquids.
  • Simulators are permitted to meet the requirements for experience in a Class 2/3 PEC and to renew a Class 1 and 2/3 PEC.
  • The coastal route Bergen-Kirkenes is subject to compulsory pilotage (from 1 January 2021).
  • Training ships and protected vessels are now subject to compulsory pilotage.
  • Towing of oil booms is included.
  • Movement in ports includes anchorage positions and DP waiting positions.
  • Changes to the requirements for experience in a Class 1 PEC.
  • Length limit for maximum permitted tow with a PEC is increased from 75 to 100 metres, except in Class 1 fairways.
  • PECs can be used on small gas tankers.

Contact the Pilotage Exemption Certificate Unit

Are you having problems with the application, or do you have questions about the scheme or want to know more about the practical arrangements for the Pilotage Exemption Certificate (PEC) scheme?

If you can’t find the information you are looking for on this website, you can contact our admin staff as follows:

Email: , or

Telephone: +47 33 03 48 08

Opening hours:

  • September to 14 May: Monday to Friday 8am-3.45pm
  • May to 14 September: Monday to Friday 8am-3.00pm

The Harbour Act

A new Act relating to harbours and fairways was adopted on 21 June 2019 and entered into force on 1 January 2020. This new legislation replaces the Act relating to harbours and fairways from 2009 and the pilotage legislation of 2014, and includes a section on fairways and a section on harbours.

See an unofficial translation of the Act relating to ports and navigable waters

See the Norwegian version here

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