Texas Boat Registration Numbers: Size, Placement and Decal
Texas boats carry a TX number on each side of the bow with the decal behind it in line. Here is the rule and how documented boats differ.
A Texas boat carries its TX registration number on each side of the forward half and a validation decal behind it. Texas Parks and Wildlife publishes the placement rule. This page summarizes it in plain words and is not legal advice: confirm with Texas Parks and Wildlife before you apply anything.
The number
- It goes on each side of the forward half of the vessel.
- The characters are block letters at least 3 inches tall and they contrast with the hull.
- The federal rule (33 CFR 173.27) adds that letters and numbers read from left to right and are separated by a space or hyphen as wide as a letter.
The validation decal
Texas asks for the decal in line with the number, about 3 inches toward the rear of the boat.
Documented boats
A boat documented with the Coast Guard is treated differently in Texas: it shows only the validation decal on both sides of the bow, not the TX number. The name and hailing port follow the Coast Guard rule (at least 4 inches tall, 46 CFR 67.123). Check the Texas page for your boat's case.
Common slips
- Placing the decal above or below the number instead of in line behind it.
- Putting the TX number on a documented boat that only needs the decal.
- Letters under 3 inches, or in a script style.
Ordering the number
Our boat registration number decals are made from the number you type, in block letters from 3 to 5 inches tall, and you see the decal at true size before you buy. For documented boats we also make boat name and hailing port decals in letters 4 inches or taller. The validation decal comes from the state.
A quick checklist before you apply
Related
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How big do Texas boat numbers have to be?
At least 3 inches tall, in block letters, in a color that contrasts with the hull. That matches the federal rule (33 CFR 173.27) and Texas Parks and Wildlife's placement page.
Where does the Texas decal go?
In line with the number, about 3 inches toward the rear of the boat. Keep it level with the number rather than above or below it.
What is different about documented boats in Texas?
Texas Parks and Wildlife says a documented boat shows only the validation decal on both sides of the bow, not the TX number. The name and hailing port follow the Coast Guard rule, at least 4 inches tall (46 CFR 67.123).
Can antique boats put the decal elsewhere?
The Texas page says antique boats may put the decal on the windshield. Read that page to see whether your boat qualifies.
Is the TX number the same as the hull identification number?
No. The HIN is stamped by the manufacturer. The TX number is the registration number the state issues. Altering the HIN is illegal.
Do the letters and numbers need a space between them?
The federal rule asks for a space or hyphen between the letter group and the number group, about as wide as a letter. Example: "TX 1234 AB".
Can I order just one decal?
Yes. Most boats need two, one for each side of the forward half. The quantity on our page starts at 2, and you can change it to 1.
- Have the TX number exactly as Texas issued it, with its spaces or hyphens.
- Measure the forward half of each side and confirm the letters fit at 3 inches or taller.
- Pick a contrasting solid color for the letters.
- Leave room for the validation decal in line with the number, about 3 inches toward the rear.
- If the boat is documented, check the Texas page before lettering a TX number: it may only need the decal.
- Step back and look at both sides from the dock before pressing the letters down firmly.
If you buy a used boat in Texas, confirm that the number on the hull matches the registration paperwork and that last year's decal is gone before you apply new lettering.
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.