Minnesota Boat License Numbers: Size, Placement and 24 Inch Rule
Minnesota calls it a watercraft license number. It goes on each side of the forward half, with a 24 inch clear zone around it and the decal. Here is the rule.
Minnesota calls the number on a boat a watercraft license number. The rule sits in the Minnesota Administrative Rules, chapter 6110, which the state's revisor publishes. This guide summarizes it in plain words and is not legal advice. The version we read was a 2023 publication, so check the current text on the revisor site or with the Department of Natural Resources before you apply anything.
The number
- It goes securely affixed on each side of the forward half of the watercraft.
- The letters and numerals are at least 3 inches high, in block type.
- The color contrasts with the background.
- It may be a decal, metal or paint.
The 24 inch clear zone
This is the Minnesota rule most owners miss. No number, letter, design or insignia may be displayed closer than 24 inches to any part of the watercraft license number or the validation decal. That applies to the boat name, a fishing club sticker, a dealer logo and decorative graphics. Measure from the nearest edge of the number or the decal.
The validation decal
Old or invalid validation decals must be removed or fully covered by the current decal, so that only the current one shows. The placement of the new one is in the rule and on the state's page. Read it before you apply.
Which watercraft are exempt
The license number rule excludes nonmotorized canoes, kayaks, sailboats, sailboards, paddle boards, paddle boats and rowing shells. Whether those need a license at all is a separate question for the agency.
Common mistakes
- A boat name or club decal within 24 inches of the number.
- A fishing brand logo, such as a dealer sticker, placed beside the validation decal.
- Letters under 3 inches, or in a script font.
- An old decal left on beside the current one.
A quick checklist before you apply
Ordering the number
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How tall do Minnesota license numbers have to be?
At least 3 inches, in block type, according to chapter 6110. That is the same floor as the federal rule (33 CFR 173.27).
What is the 24 inch rule?
No other number, letter, design or insignia may be displayed closer than 24 inches to the license number or the validation decal. Plan the boat name and any graphics around that clear zone.
Where does the number go?
On each side of the forward half of the watercraft, in a color that contrasts with the background.
Can I use paint instead of a decal?
Yes. The rule allows decals, metal or paint for the number.
Do canoes and kayaks need the number?
The number rule does not apply to nonmotorized canoes, kayaks, sailboats, sailboards, paddle boards, paddle boats or rowing shells. Check the agency page for whether they need a license.
What do I do with an old decal?
Remove it, or cover it fully with the current one, so only the current decal shows.
How do I place the boat name?
Keep it at least 24 inches from the number and from the validation decal. The stern or the upper side toward the back is the usual spot.
- Have the number exactly as Minnesota issued it, with its spaces or hyphens.
- Decide where the number goes on the forward half of each side, in block type 3 inches or taller.
- Draw a 24 inch circle on paper around the number and the validation decal, and keep every other number, letter, design and logo outside it.
- Remove the old decal, or plan for the new one to cover it fully.
- Choose a solid contrasting color for the letters.
- Step back and look at both sides from the dock before pressing the letters down firmly.
If your boat came with dealer graphics or a manufacturer logo close to the bow, measure those too. The 24 inch rule covers any number, letter, design or insignia, not only the ones you add.
Our boat registration number decals are made from the number you type, in block letters from 3 to 5 inches tall. The page shows the width at true size so you can plan the 24 inch zone. The validation decal comes from the state. For the federal summary see the boat registration number rules and for names see the boat name decals.
Checked 2026-10-13. Rules change, so confirm with the state.
See it on a truck door first
Type your lines, pick the size and colors, and watch your decal on the door. Questions? Email info@workdecals.com.