One common theme we have seen is that there is a lot of confusion on what is required for each state when applying boat registration numbers. What we have done is put together a state by state guide to help you find out specifically what you need to know before creating boat numbers. We searched each state and found the specific requirements for numbers.

What is the same for each state?

There are some common requirements that are shared among every state. These are the minimum 3" height requirement. Also boat numbers that are in a block style font (such as arial black). Some obvious things are also shared such as a contrasting color to the hull of the boat along with being readable from left to right.

Boat Number Placement

Generally every state requires placement at the bow of the boat on both sides. This means you will need two numbers to comply.

Some states don't allow shadows or effects

Indiana for instance specifically says solid colors only and no italic text. This pretty much means you can't do much style with your numbers, but you can apply doming to them.

Some states specify 2" between each group of letters

Some states specify the gap between your letters. For example "IN 4345 GV" has a space between IN and GV. This can be a dash (-) or a space generally we found. Some use the "I" rule, which means the gap is basically a full space. Others say that it needs to be a full 2". If you use our designer we follow the "I" rule. So you will need to leave us a comment to space your numbers to 2" (no extra charge). Some states also specify the gap to the DNR sticker along with which side it must appear on! We found that gap and placement the most inconsistent thing between state to state. Be sure to review the links below for your state.

Find Your State

We painstakingly surfed the web finding the links to every state reference for boat registration numbers. When you visit your state page read down a few paragraphs there will be a link to the proper documentation.

Alaska
Alabama
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