The first two letters are the identify the state the boat is registered in. You've been stopped by the local marine patrol for a routine equipment check. The report lists the VIN, year, make and model of the vehicle associated with the plate number. A check on the registration number of the boat can provide details such as the state where the boat is currently registered and damage reports. If you need to review documentation on a boat or another vessel, you can search for records by entering the vessel's name or official U.S. Coast Guard identification number on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website. You may also look at the boat registration number. Number must read from left to right on both sides of the bow. New boat within 72 hours of the purchase date. Boat registration numbers in Florida begin with an "FL" designation which is followed by four numbers and then two letters. For example, registration is generally required in Florida if your boat spends more than 89 consecutive days in the state. Used boat: 1. The certificate must be readily available on board in a safe place for inspection by a law enforcement officer. It is important to register any boat that is going to be out in Florida waters so the state can ensure vessels are being operated safely and legally. It should be displayed in three sections marked with hyphens or space between them. You must also carry photographic identification. This information is included in all certified boating safety courses taught in Florida. Submit the form online or by mail. The boat registration number decals are sold as a minimum of two and you get one free just in case you make a mistake. As a title state, Florida requires a transfer of vessel title from owner to purchaser in order to obtain legal ownership. All Rights Reserved. Online Boating License & Boaters Safety Course, Florida Boating License - FWC's Approved Course, Florida Boating Safety Course - State Specifics. Boat registration numbers must be: Displayed on the forward half of your vessel well above the waterline Painted or applied as a decal, where law enforcement officials can read it. View Forida'ss Boat Number State Law Requirements for displaying your boat.. The following vessels are exempt from registration in the state of Florida: All other vessels must be registered and numbered within 30 days of purchase. DECAL PLACEMENT of Florida Boat Registration Number Letters and Numbers should be affixed to the port side (which is the left when facing forward towards the bow) of the boat vessel within six inches BEFORE or AFTER of the registration number. Decals from expired registrations must be removed from the vessel. Number must be in at least three-inch-high bold BLOCK letters. Step 1 Check the boat's registration. Number must be in at least three-inch-high bold BLOCK letters. The registration number generally appears as the state initials, followed by four to six numbers and then two more numbers or letters. US Coast Guard-documented vessels must also obtain a Florida registration and display the validation decal in an easily visible location on the port side of the vessel when on Florida waters. This will ensure compliance with local laws. Boat registration number stickers are custom made from no-fade premium vinyl which comes with a 9 year salt and fresh water guarantee. Florida Boat Registration Numbers and Decal Information. 328, Florida Statutes. For example, a boat in Texas might have a registration that reads: TX 1234 AB. The decal must be displayed on the port (left) side of the vessel, immediately before or after the registration number (see image below). 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