MC Registration Numbers • Michigan SOS Rules

Michigan Boat Registration Numbers

Michigan boat numbers start with MC, not MI, and the decals go on both sides of the bow right after the number. We’re a Michigan company based in Saugatuck, so we letter a lot of MC numbers. Here’s how to get yours right.

Design Your MC Numbers

Michigan Registration Number Requirements

Michigan watercraft are registered through the Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State). 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
  • Displayed on both sides of the bow as high above the waterline as practical
  • No other numbers may be displayed on either side of the bow
  • The prefix is MC, for example MC 1234 AB
MC 1234 AB

Sources: Michigan SOS: Recreational Vehicles and Watercraft, 33 CFR 173.27. Rules can change, so confirm with the Michigan SOS before you install.

Queequeg Saugatuck MI Custom Boat Lettering

Where the Michigan Registration Sticker Goes

Both sides, after the number. Place a decal on each side of the bow about 3 inches after the last character of the registration number, in line with it.

The Secretary of State notes that the port-side placement is a mirror image of the starboard side.

Coast Guard Documented Vessels

Coast Guard documented vessels registered in Michigan don’t display the MC number. Check the Secretary of State’s decal placement guidance for where the decals go on a documented vessel.

Common Michigan Registration Number Mistakes

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

Enter your MC 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.

Near Lake Michigan? During our Saugatuck season (April to September) we install lettering within 50 miles of our Saugatuck location. Contact us to schedule.

Design Your MC Numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Michigan boat numbers start with MC?

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

Where do Michigan registration decals go?

On both sides of the bow, about 3 inches after the last character of the MC number and in line with it.

How big do Michigan 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 Michigan registration numbers online?

Yes. Use our online design area to enter your MC 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

California CFFlorida FLGeorgia GAMinnesota MNNew York NYNorth Carolina NCOregon ORTexas TXWashington WNWisconsin WS

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