33 C.F.R. § 148.505
How do I apply for an exemption?
(a) Any person required to comply with a requirement in this subchapter may submit a petition for exemption from that requirement.
(b) The petition must be submitted in writing to the Commandant (CG-5P) and the MARAD Administrator.
(c) The Commandant (CG-5P) may require the petition to provide an alternative to the requirement.