WN Registration Numbers • Washington DOL Rules

Washington Boat Registration Numbers

Washington boat numbers start with WN, not WA, and the decals go within 6 inches behind the number on both sides. Here’s how the Department of Licensing wants Washington registration numbers displayed.

Design Your WN Numbers

Washington Registration Number Requirements

Washington vessels are registered through the Department of Licensing. 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 WN, for example WN 5678 EF
  • If the hull shape hides the number, mount it on backing plates on the forward half of the boat
  • Tenders use the parent vessel's number plus a suffix number, for example WN 5678 EF 1
WN 1234 AB

Sources: WAC 308-93-140 (decals), WAC 308-93-145 (registration numbers), 33 CFR 173.27. Rules can change, so confirm with the Washington DOL before you install.

Dog Tracker Vinyl Boat Lettering

Where the Washington Registration Sticker Goes

Both sides, toward the stern. Put one decal on each side of the forward half of the boat, above the waterline, within 6 inches aft of the registration number and directly in line with it.

Only display the decal for the current registration year.

Coast Guard Documented Vessels

Vessels documented with the U.S. Coast Guard are not allowed to display a Washington registration number.

Common Washington Registration Number Mistakes

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

Enter your WN 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 WN Numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Washington boat numbers start with WN?

WN is Washington’s assigned boat registration prefix, so every Washington number begins with WN, for example WN 5678 EF.

Where do Washington registration decals go?

On each side of the forward half of the boat, above the waterline, within 6 inches aft of the registration number and directly in line with it.

How big do Washington 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 Washington registration numbers online?

Yes. Use our online design area to enter your WN 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 GAMichigan MCMinnesota MNNew York NYNorth Carolina NCOregon ORTexas TXWisconsin WS

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