Do you own a boat, yacht or other marine vessel like a jet ski or similar watercraft? If you do, there is a good chance that you are already aware of state and federal regulations. But for those who don’t, this article is designed to help give you an idea of some of the requirements with regards to graphics and decals that must be applied to marine vessels under state regulations. Most marine vessel owners will need a state issued certificate, which outlines how the registration numbers and decals on a marine vessel’s bow should be shown, just how they are depicted in the picture below.

Image: Official Boating Handbook of the Washington State Parks

With state issued certificates, there are specific rules that you must follow. Here are a few of them:

• The numbers must be adhered to the vessel as a decal, painted directly on, or affixed on each side of the bow and clearly visible.
• The numbers must read from left to right.
• The numbers must be 3 inches high or taller, bolded, vertical and in block characters
• The color of the numbers need to be in sharp contrast with the background.

When it comes to state issued certificates of registration for marine vessels, we have a good understanding of the law and requirements related to vessel graphics and decals. If you have a vessel that you need to get registered and aren’t sure about the proper regulations, just give us a call. We would be more than happy to help you. Written by: Shine On Signs and Graphics