The RRTC policy is simple with regards to assigning a certification. The number is never assigned until the race course has been measured and approved by a Final Signatory.

FS should not give out a number if they are measuring a course until their work is complete.

I interpret this as meaning that the number should not be given out until the certificate has been prepared and is to be mailed no later than the next day the post office is open. Correct?

Once the Certifcate is prepared and sent out to the Vice Chair, then it could be given to a race director.