Boat Numbers Apr 2026

Whether you’re a first-time captain or a seasoned sailor, understanding "boat numbers" is about more than just aesthetics—it's a legal requirement that keeps you compliant and safe on the water. 1. State Registration Numbers

The color must with your boat's hull (e.g., black letters on a white hull). They must read from left to right on both sides. 2. Validation Decals BOAT NUMBERS

Often called the "license plate" for your vessel, registration numbers are required for most motorized boats. These are issued by your state’s boating authority or DMV. Whether you’re a first-time captain or a seasoned

They must be placed on both sides of the forward half (the bow) of the vessel. Design Rules: They must read from left to right on both sides

If the registration number is the license plate, the HIN is the . Every boat manufactured after 1972 has a unique 12-character HIN.