
Hull Identification Numbers (HIN) are required by the US Coast Guard for boats built after 1972. The HIN plate must be visible from the boat's helm or steering area if the boat is less than 20 feet in length and motorized. The Duplicate Hull Identification Number must be affixed in an unexposed location on the interior of the boat or beneath a fitting or item of hardware.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is it? | Hull Identification Number (HIN) plate |
| Where does it go? | On the back of the boat, in an unexposed location on the interior of the boat or beneath a fitting or item of hardware |
| What boats need one? | All boats except kayaks, sailboats, canoes and inflatables |
| What does it detail? | The maximum weight capacity of all people, gear and motor together in pounds |
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What You'll Learn

The HIN plate is required by the USCG
The HIN plate should be affixed to the transom, which is the flat surface at the stern of the boat. Some boats have two HIN plates, one hidden forward and the other riveted to the transom. The duplicate HIN must be affixed in an unexposed location on the interior of the boat or beneath a fitting or item of hardware. This means that it should be hidden. The Coast Guard recognises that on some boats there is no place to hide a duplicate HIN. In this case, the duplicate HIN can be affixed to the inboard surface of the hull side beneath a thwart or support for a seat. If the boat does not have seats, the duplicate HIN should be affixed somewhere on the inboard surface of the hull.
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The HIN plate should be visible from the boat's helm or steering area
The HIN plate is important for identifying the boat and its history. If the HIN plate has been removed, it may be possible to find the HIN number in the county records or by contacting the DMV. The HIN number can also be used to trace the boat's past owners.
In addition to the HIN plate, there may be a second, hidden HIN plate located in an unexposed location on the interior of the boat or beneath a fitting or item of hardware. This is known as the Duplicate Hull Identification Number. The location of this second HIN plate may vary depending on the type of boat. For example, on dinghies, it may be affixed to the inboard surface of the hull side beneath a thwart or support for a seat.
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The HIN plate can be hidden forward
The HIN plate is usually engraved on aluminium and can be mounted with screws or rivets. However, some people choose to stick it to the transom with adhesive or glue.
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The HIN plate can be riveted to the transom
The HIN plate is used to identify the boat and is required by the USCG. It is important to note that the HIN plate should be affixed in an unexposed location on the interior of the boat or beneath a fitting or item of hardware. This means that the second HIN plate should be hidden. Some boats have an anchor locker area on the bow where the second HIN plate can be stored. If the boat has been registered in the past, the county should have records of the HIN and the identities of past owners.
When riveting the HIN plate to the transom, it is recommended to sand the paint off the section of the transom where the plate will be attached. This will help ensure that the plate adheres properly and stays attached. It is also important to consider sealing any holes drilled during the riveting process to protect the paint job.
Additionally, some boat builders choose to use adhesive or glue to attach the HIN plate to the transom instead of rivets. This method can be effective, but it is important to ensure that the adhesive is strong enough to hold the plate securely in place over time.
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The HIN plate can be stuck to the transom
The HIN plate is usually made of aluminium and is engraved with the boat's identification number. The plate can be affixed to the transom using adhesive or mounting screws. Some people also choose to rivet the plate to the transom for added security.
It is important to note that the HIN plate should be placed in a location that is easily accessible and visible. This is because the HIN plate is used to identify the boat and is often required for registration and insurance purposes.
In some cases, a second HIN plate may be hidden in an unexposed location on the interior of the boat. This is typically done to prevent theft or tampering with the HIN plate. The second HIN plate can be affixed to the inboard surface of the hull side beneath a seat or other hardware.
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Frequently asked questions
HID stands for Hull Identification Number.
The Hull Identification Number is a unique number assigned to every boat.
The Hull Identification Number goes on a plate on the transom of the boat.
The duplicate Hull Identification Number must be affixed in an unexposed location on the interior of the boat or beneath a fitting or item of hardware.
The Hull Identification Number is used to identify a boat and its owner.








































