CF Registration Numbers • California DMV Rules

California Boat Registration Numbers

California boat numbers start with CF, not CA, and the registration stickers go 3 inches behind the number on both sides. Boating on fresh water? Your Mussel Fee sticker goes right next to them. Here’s how California wants it all displayed.

Design Your CF Numbers

California Registration Number Requirements

California boats are registered with the DMV, and boating rules are published by the Division of Boating and Waterways. 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
  • The prefix is CF, for example CF 1234 AB
  • No other numbers, letters or devices near your registration sticker, other than your CF number and Mussel Fee sticker
  • On a flared bow where the number would be hard to read, put the number and sticker on a backing plate on the forward half of the boat
CF 1234 AB

Sources: California DMV: Register Your Boat/Vessel, California Division of Boating and Waterways: ABCs of Boating, Registration, 33 CFR 173.27. Rules can change, so confirm with the California DMV before you install.

Tail Wind Custom Vinyl Boat Lettering

Where the California Registration Sticker Goes

Both sides, toward the stern. California issues two registration stickers. Put one on each side of the boat, 3 inches aft (toward the stern) of the CF number and in line with it.

Mussel Fee sticker: if you boat on California fresh water (the Delta, rivers, lakes, reservoirs and streams), you also need a Quagga and Zebra Mussel Fee sticker, displayed next to your registration sticker.

Common California Registration Number Mistakes

  • Using the wrong prefix. California numbers start with CF, not the postal abbreviation.
  • Script, italic or outlined fonts. California requires plain block characters.
  • Numbers smaller than 3 inches. Measure the finished height, not the font size.
  • Missing spaces or hyphens between CF, 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 California Registration Numbers

Enter your CF 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.

Design Your CF Numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do California boat numbers start with CF?

CF is California’s assigned boat registration prefix, so every California number begins with CF, for example CF 1234 AB. Copy it exactly as it appears on your certificate of number.

Where does the California Mussel Fee sticker go?

Next to your registration sticker, on each side of the boat. It’s required when you boat on California fresh water such as the Delta, rivers, lakes and reservoirs.

How big do California 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 California registration numbers online?

Yes. Use our online design area to enter your CF 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.

Registration Number Rules in Other States

Florida FLGeorgia GAMichigan MCMinnesota MNNew York NYNorth Carolina NCOregon ORTexas TXWashington WNWisconsin WS

See the full boat registration numbers guide for federal requirements, formatting and installation tips.