Hull ID Numbers (HIN)

Your boat has its very own, unique identification number just like your car does.  The only difference is that this number is called the Hull Identification Number, sometimes referred to as HIN.  This number helps identify the boat to a specific manufacturer and the date of when it was manufactured.  These numbers help the boat builders determine what boats are involved should there be a recall after the boat is purchased.  

The hull identification numbers are also very important to the state in which your boat is registered.  Not to be confused with the registration numbers, the HIN is located at the back of the boat on the starboard side, either on the transom or on the starboard gunwale, but always on the outside of the boat.  Your state registration numbers are located on either side at the bow of the boat.  

Any boat that was imported or built on or after November 1, 1972 is required to have a hull identification number.  

Up next, learn how to decode your HIN.