(a) Any dealer may obtain certificates of number to be used only for the purpose of testing or demonstrating vessels owned by the dealer. The fee for the first certificate of number issued to any dealer for each vessel classification shall be the same fee as prescribed in subsection (c) of Code Section 52-7-5 and the dealer may then be issued additional certificates of number for testing and demonstrating purposes at a reduced fee as provided by the board. The amount of the reduced fee shall be determined by the board and shall be a reasonable approximation of the cost of producing and distributing the certificates of number and may be changed from time to time.

(b) Dealers shall be authorized to transfer certificates of number issued pursuant to this Code section from one vessel to another vessel in the same classification.

(c) Any dealer desiring certificates of number shall make application for them on standard vessel registration forms which shall be accompanied by an affidavit stating that the applicant is a vessel dealer or manufacturer.

(d) Numbers assigned by such certificates shall be temporarily placed on vessels within the certificate's class range whenever such vessels are being tested or demonstrated and must be plainly marked "DEALER." Such temporary placement of numbers shall be as the board shall provide by regulation.