NHTSA Manufacturer Identification Registration Process: A Quick Guide

The automotive supply chain bears complexity in its production and its regulation. Automotive manufacturers, their original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and aftermarket parts producers are required to comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) in the production of vehicles and equipment. The FMVSS are promulgated and enforced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 at 49 USC Chapter 301 (the Vehicle Safety Act). Implementing regulations are found at 49 CFR Parts 500-599.

Production of regulated vehicles and equipment requires observance of a "self-certification" process by manufacturers. In essence, the Vehicle Safety Act requires manufacturers to certify that motor vehicles and regulated component parts offered for sale in the United States comply with all applicable FMVSS. [See 49 USC 30115.] NHTSA provides oversight in part by requiring