Boat Registration In Oregon: Where To Place Numbers

If you're registering your boat in Oregon, you'll need to display your registration number and validation decals correctly. The registration number must be displayed on both the port and starboard sides of the bow, reading from left to right on both sides. It must be in block letters with a minimum height of 3 inches and be placed above the waterline, where it can be easily read. The number should be in a colour that contrasts with its background, and letters must be separated from the numbers by a space. Validation decals must be placed in line with the registration number but three inches towards the stern of the boat.

Displaying the registration number and validation decals

The registration number must be displayed on both sides of the forward half of the boat, specifically on the port and starboard sides of the bow. This positioning ensures the number is easily readable and visible above the waterline. The number should be painted, applied as a decal, or otherwise affixed to the boat.

The format of the registration number is standardised. It must read from left to right on both sides and use at least three-inch-high BLOCK letters (not slanted). The letters and numbers must be separated by a space, for example, "OR 018 ABC". It is important that no other numbers are displayed on either side of the bow.

The colour of the registration number is also important. The number must be in a colour that contrasts with its background, ensuring readability. This typically means using a colour that contrasts with the base colour of your boat.

Validation decals have specific placement requirements as well. They must be affixed on each side of the boat, positioned in line with, and three inches towards the stern of, the registration number. Personal watercraft must also display the certificate's number, registration number, and registration decals.

It is illegal to operate an unregistered boat in Oregon. Therefore, boat owners must ensure their vessel is registered and properly marked with the registration number and validation decals as described above. Alternatively, they must have a valid temporary registration permit on board.

The registration number's positioning on the boat

To ensure your boat is legally registered in Oregon, you must correctly display your registration number and validation decals. The positioning of the registration numbers on the boat is very specific and must adhere to the following guidelines:

The registration number must be displayed on both the port and starboard sides of the bow. This means the number must be shown on both the right and left sides of the forward half of the boat, facing forward. The number must be placed above the waterline and be easily readable. It should be positioned so that it reads from left to right on both sides of the bow.

The registration number must be in block-style letters, such as Impact or Arial Black, with a minimum height of 3 inches. It is important that the letters are not slanted. The colour of the letters must contrast with the background colour of the boat to ensure readability.

When formatting the registration number, there should be a space between the letters and numbers. For example, "OR 115 ABC" or "OR 018 ABC". No other numbers can be displayed on either side of the bow, and the validation decals must be placed in line with the registration number, three inches towards the stern.

Personal watercraft are also required to display the certificate number, registration number, and registration decals. It is illegal to operate an unregistered boat in Oregon, so ensure you have properly displayed your registration number and decals or have a valid temporary registration permit on board.

The size and style of the registration number

Size Requirements:

The registration number on your boat must be displayed in a specific size to ensure visibility. The minimum height requirement for the letters is three inches. This applies to both the numbers and letters in the registration number. This size requirement is consistent across all US states, ensuring uniformity and easy identification of boats operating in Oregon waters.

Style Guidelines:

In terms of style, Oregon has specific requirements to ensure the registration number is legible and stands out. Firstly, the registration number must be displayed in BLOCK letters. This means using a font style such as Impact or Arial Black, where each letter is clearly separated and not slanted or italicised. This is important as it makes the number easily readable from a distance.

Additionally, the colour of the registration number must contrast with the background. This means choosing a colour for the letters and numbers that clearly stands out against the colour of your boat's hull or the background colour it is placed on. For example, if your boat is dark blue, you would want to choose a light-coloured font like white or yellow to ensure the registration number is visible.

Spacing and Placement:

The spacing between letters and numbers is also important. There should be a space or a dash (-) between the letters and numbers. For example, the registration number "OR 115 ABC" would have a space between the "OR" and the "115," and then another space or dash between the numbers and letters, like this: "OR 115-ABC." This spacing makes it easier to read and distinguishes the state identifier from the rest of the number.

In terms of placement, the registration number should be displayed on both the port and starboard sides of the bow, also known as the forward half of the boat. It should be placed above the waterline and read from left to right on both sides. This ensures the number is visible to authorities and other boaters, facilitating easy identification and compliance with registration requirements.

Decal Options:

Boat owners in Oregon have the option to display their registration numbers using decals. These decals can be purchased from authorised vendors and customised with your specific registration number. The decals are designed to be easily installed, providing a painted-on look that complies with the size, style, and placement requirements mentioned above.

In summary, when registering your boat in Oregon, ensure the registration number adheres to the specified size, style, spacing, and placement guidelines. By following these instructions, your boat will be properly identified, and you will be in compliance with Oregon's boat registration laws.

The colour of the registration number

It is worth noting that the specific colour choices may depend on the base colour of your boat. If your boat has multiple colours or a complex design, you should select a colour for the registration number that stands out against the majority of the boat's surface. This will ensure compliance with the requirement for a contrasting colour.

Additionally, the style of the registration number should be considered. In Oregon, the registration number must be displayed in BLOCK letters, with a minimum height of 3 inches. The letters should not be slanted, and there should be a space between the letters and numbers. This ensures that the registration number is easily readable from a distance.

When choosing the colour of the registration number, it is important to keep in mind that the goal is to make the number clearly visible. Therefore, selecting a colour that contrasts with the background is essential. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your boat registration number complies with Oregon's requirements and is easily identifiable by authorities.

How to install the registration number

To install the registration number on your boat in Oregon, you must follow the state's specific requirements. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install your registration number:

• Location: The registration number must be displayed on both the port and starboard sides of the forward half of the boat, also known as the bow. It should be placed above the water line so that it can be easily read.
• Direction: Ensure that the number reads from left to right on both sides of the bow.
• Letter Size and Style: The registration number must be displayed in BLOCK letters, with a minimum height of 3 inches. The letters should not be slanted.
• Spacing: Separate the letters from the numbers with a space. For example, "OR 018 ABC". Do not display any other numbers on either side of the bow.
• Color: Choose a color for the letters that contrasts with the background color of your boat to ensure visibility.
• Validation Decals: In addition to the registration number, validation decals must be affixed on each side of the boat. Place them in line with, and three inches towards the stern of, the registration number.
• Application: You can paint the registration number directly on the boat, apply it as a decal, or use other adhesive methods. If using a decal, ensure the surface is clean and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.
• Temporary Registration: If you have a valid temporary registration permit, you may operate your boat without displaying the permanent registration number. However, ensure you have the permit on board.

Please refer to the Oregon State Marine Board website for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information regarding boat registration and decal display laws in Oregon.

Frequently asked questions