North Carolina Boat Registration Numbers: Size and Decals
North Carolina boats carry an NC number on the forward half of both sides with a decal within 6 inches. Here is the rule from the Wildlife Resources Commission.
North Carolina boats carry an NC registration number on the forward half of each side, with the validation decals nearby. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission explains it in its vessel operator's guide. This guide summarizes it in plain words and is not legal advice, so check the Commission's guide before you apply anything.
The number
- It is painted or permanently affixed on the forward half of both sides of the bow.
- The characters are block letters at least 3 inches tall, in one solid color that contrasts with the bow.
- It reads left to right, as it appears on your registration card, with a space or hyphen between the letters and the numbers, such as NC 1234 AB or NC-1234-AB.
- No other numbers may be displayed on either side of the bow.
The validation decals
- One goes on the starboard (right) side and one on the port (left) side of the bow, within 6 inches of your registration number.
- A Coast Guard documented vessel puts the decals on the forward half of each side and does not display the NC registration number.
- Remove the old decals before you apply new ones.
Common mistakes
- Using more than one color in the number.
- A decal more than 6 inches from the number.
- A model name or number on the bow close to the registration number.
- The NC number on a documented boat that should only show the decals.
- Old decals left on.
A quick checklist before you apply
Ordering the number
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How tall do North Carolina boat numbers have to be?
At least 3 inches, in block letters, in one solid color that contrasts with the bow, according to the Wildlife Resources Commission's vessel operator's guide.
Where do the decals go?
On the starboard and port sides of the bow, within 6 inches of the registration number.
Do I need a space between the NC and the numbers?
Yes. Separate the letters from the numbers with a space or a hyphen, as in NC 1234 AB.
What about documented boats?
The guide says a Coast Guard documented vessel puts the decals on the forward half of each side and does not display the NC registration number. The name and hailing port follow the Coast Guard rule, at least 4 inches tall (46 CFR 67.123).
Can I put my boat name near the number?
The guide says no other numbers may be displayed on either side of the bow. A name is lettering rather than a number, but keep it clear of the registration number and confirm with the Commission.
Do I need new decals every year?
The decals show the registration period. Check the current term and fees on the Commission's page, and remove the old decals before applying new ones.
Can I order just one decal?
Yes, but most boats need one for each side. The quantity on our page starts at 2.
- Have the number exactly as North Carolina issued it, as printed on your registration card.
- Measure the forward half of each side and confirm the letters fit at 3 inches or taller.
- Pick one solid color that contrasts with the bow. Avoid outlines or shadows in a second color.
- Leave room for a decal on each side within 6 inches of the number, starboard and port.
- Clear other numbers off both sides of the bow, such as an old model number.
- Remove the old decals before you apply the new ones.
If you buy a used boat in North Carolina, confirm that the number on the hull matches your registration card, and that the old owner's lettering is removed, before you rely on it.
Our boat registration number decals are made from the number you type, in plain block letters from 3 to 5 inches tall in one color, which fits the single color rule. The page shows the width at true size. The validation decals come from the state. For the federal rule see the boat registration number rules and the jet ski and pontoon guides.
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.