BOAT REGISTRATION NUMBER REQUIREMENTS
Boat Number Display Laws by State
Every state has its own rules for how boat registration numbers must be displayed on a vessel. Use this page to choose your state and review the basic boat number decal requirements before applying your registration numbers.
✔ Boat numbers are usually required on both sides of the bow
✔ Most states require block-style letters and numbers
✔ Registration numbers must contrast with the boat color
✔ Proper spacing is usually required between letters and numbers
DISPLAY EXAMPLE
IN 1234 AB
Example format showing spacing between letter and number groups.
1. Find Your State
Each state can have different display rules for boat registration numbers.
2. Check The Requirements
Review the size, spacing, color contrast, and placement rules for your state.
3. Apply Numbers Correctly
Boat numbers should be readable, properly spaced, and placed where your state requires.
Choose Your State
Select your state below to view boat number display laws and registration decal requirements.
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming