What are boat registration and hull identification numbers?
The registration number is similar to a car’s license plate number and is issued upon initial titling. The Hull Identification Number (HIN) is similar to a car’s vehicle identification number and identifies the manufacturer, serial number and date of certification (construction). Certain U.S. Coast Guard regulations are required to be built into the boat based on date of certification. All boats manufactured after Nov. 1, 1972 must have the HIN permanently displayed on the upper right-hand corner of the boat’s transom (back end) and affixed in accordance with Coast Guard Regulations before being sold in Oregon. Both the HIN and registration numbers must be on the boat. They are a deterrent to theft and the Marine Board uses them to help locate stolen or missing boats. The HIN on the boat must match the numbers on the title and registration. Altered, improper or missing HINs may be cause for seizure by marine enforcement officers. Let the Marine Board know if you suspect a problem with
