NC Registration Numbers • NCWRC Rules

North Carolina Boat Registration Numbers

North Carolina sends you two validation decals, one for each side of the bow, and they go right after your NC number. Here’s how to display North Carolina registration numbers the way the Wildlife Resources Commission requires.

North Carolina Registration Number Requirements

North Carolina boats are registered with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. 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
  • No other number may be carried on the bow except the year on the validation decal
  • Letter groups use no I, O or Q, so anything that looks like one is a 1 or 0
NC 1234 AB

Sources: 15A NCAC 10F .0106 and .0107, 33 CFR 173.27. Rules can change, so confirm with the NCWRC before you install.

Serenity Custom Boat Lettering

Where the North Carolina Registration Sticker Goes

Both sides, following the number. Put one validation decal on each side of the bow, after the registration number and within 6 inches of it, where it is visible and legible.

Coast Guard Documented Vessels

Coast Guard documented vessels display one validation decal on the forward half of the starboard bow and one on the forward half of the port bow.

Common North Carolina Registration Number Mistakes

  • Script, italic or outlined fonts. North Carolina requires plain block characters.
  • Numbers smaller than 3 inches. Measure the finished height, not the font size.
  • Missing spaces or hyphens between NC, 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 North Carolina Registration Numbers

Enter your NC 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

Where do North Carolina boat registration decals go?

One on each side of the bow, following the registration number and within 6 inches of it.

Can I have other numbers on the bow of my North Carolina boat?

No. The only number allowed on the bow besides your registration number is the year on the validation decal.

How big do North Carolina 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 North Carolina registration numbers online?

Yes. Use our online design area to enter your NC 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

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