The Hull Identification Number (HIN) is a 12- or 14-character serial number that uniquely identifies a boat. The HIN is analogous to a VIN on a car.
The first 3 digits are the Manufacturer’s Identification Code (ex. Boat brand such as Sea Ray, Meridian, etc.). The 4 digits after that are the manufacturer’s serial number for the boat. The 3rd and 4th digits from the end are the date of manufacture. The letter on the date of the manufacture corresponds to the month of the year, i.e. A = January, B = February, C = March and so forth. The last two digits of the HIN number represent the model year.
All boats manufactured or imported on or after November 1, 1972, must bear a HIN, and this HIN must be identified during boat registration. Vessels manufactured or imported before 1972 are EXEMPT because they often do not have a HIN.
The HIN is found on a metal or plastic plate, typically on the transom of the boat, usually on the right starboard (right) side of the transom within two inches of the top of transom, gunwale, or hull/deck joint, whichever is lowest.
On vessels without transoms, or impractical to use transoms, the HIN is usually affixed to the starboard (right) outboard side of hull, aft, within one foot of the stern and within two inches of the top of the hull side, gunwale or hull/deck joint, whichever is lowest.
