MN Registration Numbers • Minnesota DNR Rules

Minnesota Boat Registration Numbers

Minnesota has the most detailed registration number rules we work with. Stroke width, character spacing and group spacing are all specified, and nothing else can go within 24 inches of your number. Here’s what Minnesota requires.

Minnesota Registration Number Requirements

Minnesota watercraft licenses are issued through the Minnesota DNR. Your number must be:

  • Painted on or permanently attached to each side of the forward half of the boat
  • Plain vertical block characters at least 3 inches tall
  • A color that contrasts with the hull so the number is clearly legible
  • A space or hyphen the width of a letter between groups
  • Reads left to right on both sides
  • Block type with a stroke between 1/2 and 3/4 inch wide, not counting any border
  • 3 to 4 inches of space between the letter groups and the numbers
  • 1/2 to 3/4 inch between characters within each group
  • No other number, letter, design or insignia within 24 inches of the number or the decal
MN 1234 AB

Sources: Minn. R. 6110.0300 (number and decal display), Minn. R. 6110.0700 (other insignia), 33 CFR 173.27. Rules can change, so confirm with the Minnesota DNR before you install.

Trouvaille South Haven, MI Boat Lettering

Where the Minnesota Registration Sticker Goes

Both sides, toward the stern. The current validation decal goes toward the stern of the boat, no more than 4 inches from the first or last letter of the number, on each side.

Remove expired decals or cover them completely with the current decal so only the current one shows.

Common Minnesota Registration Number Mistakes

  • Script, italic or outlined fonts. Minnesota requires plain block characters.
  • Numbers smaller than 3 inches. Measure the finished height, not the font size.
  • Missing spaces or hyphens between MN, the numbers and the suffix.
  • Low contrast, like silver on a white hull or navy on a dark blue hull.
  • Sticker in the wrong spot. Check the placement rule above before you apply your numbers so there's room for it.

Custom Minnesota Registration Numbers

Enter your MN number in our design area, choose a legal block font and a color that stands out on your hull, and preview it before you buy. All of our vinyl is laminated for extra protection from sun and salt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my boat name or graphics go near my Minnesota numbers?

Not within 24 inches. Minnesota prohibits any other number, letter, design or insignia closer than 24 inches to the registration number or validation decal on motorized watercraft.

How far apart should Minnesota registration characters be?

Leave 1/2 to 3/4 inch between characters in each group and 3 to 4 inches between the letter groups and the numbers. The stroke of each character should be 1/2 to 3/4 inch wide.

How big do Minnesota boat registration numbers need to be?

At least 3 inches tall in plain block characters, on both sides of the forward half of the boat, in a color that contrasts with the hull.

Can I order Minnesota registration numbers online?

Yes. Use our online design area to enter your MN number, pick a legal block font, size and color, and preview both sides before you order. We offer 24 hour turnaround on orders placed Monday through Friday.