What to Do If Your Boat Needs a Replacement HIN Tag

If you own a boat, the Hull Identification Number (HIN) is one of the most important pieces of identification on the vessel. Similar to a VIN on a car, a HIN is a unique number used to identify your boat for registration, insurance, recalls, ownership records, and theft recovery. Federal regulations require boats manufactured after 1972 to have a HIN permanently affixed to the vessel.

Over time, HIN tags can become damaged, painted over, corroded, lost during repairs, or become unreadable from years of outdoor exposure. When that happens, many boat owners start looking for replacement HIN tags and wondering what information is needed to get a new one made.

How Do I Know If I Need a Replacement HIN Tag?

You may need a replacement HIN tag if:

• The original tag is damaged or unreadable
• The tag was removed during restoration or repair work
• Corrosion or fading has made the information difficult to read
• The boat has been repainted and the HIN was covered up
• The original tag is missing entirely

Replacing a damaged HIN tag helps ensure your boat can still be properly identified for registration, insurance, and ownership purposes.

Where Can I Find My Boat’s HIN?

In most cases, the Hull Identification Number can be found in two places:

• On your boat registration paperwork
• On the upper starboard side of the transom (rear right side of the boat)

Some boats may also have a secondary HIN located inside the vessel in a hidden location for verification purposes.

If your original tag is damaged or unreadable, your registration paperwork is the most important document because it contains the official HIN assigned to your boat.

What If My HIN Tag Is Missing or Unreadable?

If your HIN tag is missing or cannot be read, start by locating your current boat registration.

At National Band & Tag, we require a copy of your current registration paperwork before producing a replacement HIN tag. The registration contains the Hull Identification Number that will be laser etched onto your new tag.

Other documents, photographs, or handwritten numbers are not accepted.

This helps ensure the replacement HIN tag matches the official registration records for your vessel.

If you cannot locate your registration paperwork, contact your state’s boating or registration agency before ordering a replacement tag.

Where Should a Replacement HIN Tag Be Installed?

Federal regulations specify where Hull Identification Numbers should be displayed on a boat. For most vessels, the HIN is located on the upper starboard side of the transom.

When installing a replacement HIN tag:

• Place it as close as possible to the original location
• Mount it permanently to the boat
• Do not attach it to removable parts or accessories
• Follow any additional state requirements if applicable

Proper placement helps ensure the HIN remains visible and compliant with boating regulations.

Why Is the HIN Important?

A Hull Identification Number helps identify your specific boat and is commonly used for:

• Boat registration
• Insurance records
• Ownership verification
• Theft recovery
• Recall tracking
• Titling and resale purposes

The 12-character HIN contains manufacturer and production information unique to the vessel.

Ordering a Replacement HIN Tag

National Band & Tag manufactures durable replacement HIN tags designed for long-term marine use. Our tags are laser etched for clear readability and outdoor durability.

To order a replacement HIN tag, simply provide your current boat registration paperwork. Once approved, we will laser etch the HIN exactly as it appears on the registration paperwork.

View available options and start your order here: Replacement HIN Tags