The U.S. Coast Guard has developed rules applicable to both U.S. and foreign-flag vessels that require owners and operators of most commercial vessels to install and use the AIS. The AIS rule is part of our domestic and international effort to increase the security and safety of maritime transportation. Current AIS regulations, 33 CFR 164.46, became effective on November 21, 2003, and, require that all vessels denoted 33 CFR 164.46(a) be outfitted with an USCG ‘type-approved’ and ‘properly installed’ AIS no later than December 31, 2004. Read more. Note, there are no special provisions or alternatives in the AIS rules for small businesses. See Small Entity Compliance Guide to AIS.