Wisconsin Boat Registration Numbers: Size, Gaps and Decals
Wisconsin asks for block letters at least 3 inches tall with a gap of at least 2 inches between groups, and does not allow two-tone or camouflage numbers.
Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources publishes the rules for displaying a boat's registration number. Two details set Wisconsin apart from the federal summary: a minimum gap between the letter and number groups, and a rule against two-tone numbers. This guide summarizes the rule in plain words and is not legal advice, so check the DNR page before you apply anything.
The number
- The characters are block letters at least 3 inches tall.
- The gap between the letter group and the number group is at least 2 inches.
- Two-toned and camouflage numbers are not legal. Use one solid color that contrasts with the hull.
- The federal rule (33 CFR 173.27) adds that the number goes on each side of the forward half and reads from left to right.
Documented boats
Wisconsin's page for Coast Guard documented boats says the expiration decals go on either side of the vessel's name on the transom, and the registration number then does not need to be displayed. Read the DNR page for your boat, because documented vessels follow the Coast Guard's own name and hailing port rule (at least 4 inches, 46 CFR 67.123).
Common mistakes
- A gap that looks right on paper but is narrower than 2 inches once applied.
- A number with an outline or shadow in a second color.
- Camouflage or patterned vinyl on camouflage-themed boats.
- Putting the decals on the wrong place on a documented boat.
- Letters under 3 inches.
A quick checklist before you apply
Ordering the number
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How tall do Wisconsin boat numbers have to be?
At least 3 inches, in block letters, according to the DNR. That matches the federal floor.
How wide is the gap between the letters and the numbers?
At least 2 inches. The federal rule only asks for a space or hyphen as wide as a letter, so Wisconsin is more specific.
Can I use a two-color number?
No. The DNR says two-toned and camouflage numbers are not legal. Use a single solid color that contrasts with the hull.
Where do the decals go on a documented boat?
On the transom, on either side of the vessel's name, according to the DNR's page for documented boats. The registration number does not need to be displayed in that case.
Can I make the letters myself?
Yes, as long as they are block letters 3 inches or taller in one solid color with the gap above. Vinyl decals are a common choice. Our page shows the decal at true size before you buy.
Do duck boats and jon boats follow this rule?
Boats that need a number follow the same display rule. Camouflage paint does not change it, and the number still needs a single solid contrasting color.
Can I order just one decal?
Yes, but most boats need one for each side of the forward half. The quantity on our page starts at 2.
- Have the number exactly as Wisconsin issued it, with the gap between the letters and the numbers.
- Measure the forward half of each side and confirm the letters fit at 3 inches or taller.
- Plan a gap of at least 2 inches between the letter group and the number group, and measure it after the letters are on.
- Use one solid color. No outlines, shadows or camouflage patterns.
- If the boat is documented, read the DNR page for where the decals go on the transom.
- Step back and look at both sides from the dock before pressing the letters down firmly.
If you are lettering a camouflage boat, pick a number color that stands out from the camouflage pattern. A solid color on a solid background decal keeps the number readable on a patterned hull.
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 on one background, which suits Wisconsin's single color rule. Type the number with a space where the gap goes. The decals come from the state. For the federal rule see the boat registration number rules.
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.