Boats that measure 15 gross tons or more, or those involved in commercial use requiring full registration, are usually placed on the Large Vessel Register. These boats must have Canadian boat registration and:
- A registered name that is unique across Canada
- A designated port of registry
- An official registration number
How Do I Display the Name and Port of Registry?
The name and port of registry must be:
- Clearly visible on the exterior of the hull
- Displayed on the stern whenever possible
- Shown in block letters that contrast with the background
- Large enough to be read at a reasonable distance
How Do I Display the Official Number and Tonnage?
Inside the boat, the official number and tonnage must be permanently affixed to a structural part of the hull. The marking should:
- Be carved, welded, burned, or permanently engraved
- Not be placed on removable components
- Appear in block-style characters no less than 4 centimeters high
These markings prove that the boat is registered and cannot be removed without evidence of tampering. If you later perform transcript and historical research on the boat, these numbers will match its record.
What Are Marking Requirements for Boats with a Pleasure Craft Licence?
A pleasure craft licence is required for most recreational powerboats in Canada. When your boat receives its licence:
- You must display the licence number on both sides of the bow.
- The numbers must be at least 7.5 centimeters high.
- The characters must be in a color that sharply contrasts with the background of the hull.
- The numbers must be placed above the waterline so they remain visible at all times.
Only the licence number is required; you do not need to mark the boat with a name or port of registry unless you choose to do so.
This requirement applies only to recreational use boats. The pleasure craft licence does not grant nationality documentation or commercial authority.
What Are the Marking Requirements for Boats on the Small Vessel Register?
The Small Vessel Register is for registered boats that are not part of the Large Vessel Register but still receive a registration certificate rather than a licence. This usually applies to certain commercial or government boats under 15 gross tons.
Boats on this register must display:
- The official registration number inside the hull
- The registered name on the exterior, if one has been assigned
The markings must be:
- Permanently affixed to the interior structure of the hull
- Carved, welded, embossed, or otherwise set into the material
- Displayed in a way that cannot be easily removed or covered
Unlike pleasure craft licencing, this form of registration provides proof of nationality and is used for commercial contexts.
Why Do Numbers Have to Be Marked on a Canadian Boat?
Canada assigns different identifying numbers depending on how the boat is used and which registry or licence it falls under.
These numbers allow authorities to distinguish your boat from others and trace ownership. They also appear on official title records, so the same numbers that go on your boat are also tied to your ownership record.
Where Can I Find the Canadian Boat Registration Numbers to Be Marked?
You will receive your required numbers directly from Transport Canada once your Canadian boat registration or licence is processed. This may arrive:
- In your registration certificate or digital licence documentation
- In an email confirmation (for online applications)
- Through forms downloaded from online portals like ours
If you are purchasing a used boat, the seller should provide documentation showing the current Canadian boat registration or licence number. If the seller did not provide it or you want further confirmation, research through official records is available. Some boat owners also order a bill of sale boat form to document ownership transfer clearly before registration or licensing.
What Happens If I Don’t Properly Mark My Boat?
Failing to apply the required markings can result in:
- Fines issued by Transport Canada
- Delays or complications during inspection stops
- Difficulties proving ownership during transfer or sale
- Potential issues in emergencies where search and rescue relies on proper identification
- Problems when crossing borders or interacting with foreign authorities
Canada’s boating rules, including marking requirements, are outlined in governing regulations, covering marking and more.
Authorities can require you to show that your markings match your registration or licence details. If they do not match, you may be asked to correct them immediately or undergo further verification.
How Can the National Vessel Register Center Corp. Help?
We provide access to the forms and resources to help you register your boat or apply for a pleasure craft licence online. Once you have completed the process through our portal, you will receive the required numbers that must be marked on your boat.
Using Our Online Portal for Canadian Boat Registration and More
Our platform allows you to:
- Apply for new boat registration
- Access the proper forms for a documented boat ownership transfer
- Renew your current registration
- Replace lost certificates or documentation
- Apply for a pleasure craft licence online
- Access the correct Transport Canada forms in one place
Once the process is complete, you will receive the numbers you need to mark your boat according to the rules described above.
What Are Some Key Tips for Proper Canadian Boat Registration Marking?
- Use durable materials that won’t fade or peel
- Keep the markings above the waterline
- Match the numbers exactly—spelling, spacing, and sequence must be identical
- Re-check the required size for letters and digits
- Make sure the markings contrast sharply with the background color of your hull
Common mistakes include:
- Marking the wrong numbers (e.g., using hull ID instead of licence number)
- Using decals or paint that wears off quickly
- Placing numbers too low or too small
Correct marking is not a one-time formality—it’s part of legal operation.
So, if you are ready to move forward with applying for your licence or Canadian boat registration, our portal makes the process straightforward. Once you have your assigned numbers, marking your boat becomes a manageable and clear next step.