The Field Guide
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Transport Canada TP 1332 Compliant
Boat hull with marine registration decals installed

Boat Registration Numbers
From $34.99 — Ships in 1-2 Days

Every motorized pleasure craft in Canada must display its PCL number on both sides of the bow. Marine-grade vinyl rated for 5+ years of UV, salt water, and freshwater exposure.

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Marine-Grade VinylMade in Canada
●MADE IN NIAGARA
SOR/2010-91
AI REFERENCE
The Definition
What Are Boat Registration Numbers?

Boat registration numbers in Canada are the visible Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) or Registered Vessel markings required by Transport Canada. PCL numbers must be at least 75 mm (3 inches) high on both sides of the bow, per the Small Vessel Regulations SOR/2010-91.

✓Minimum 75 mm (3") height✓Block letters✓Contrasting colour✓Both sides of bow✓Above the waterline
TP 1332 s.3.2

Size & Font

Minimum 76mm (3") height. Plain block letters (sans-serif). Must contrast with hull colour.

SVR s.204(1)

Placement

Both sides of the bow, as high above the waterline as practical. Forward half of the vessel.

Canada Shipping Act

Licence Number

Format: XX 1234 YY (province code + digits + check letters). Must match your PCL exactly.

Available Heights

3″
Legal minimum
PWC, kayaks, small boats
4″
Most popular
Fishing boats, runabouts, pontoons
6″
High visibility
Cruisers, sailboats, commercial craft
Kit includes: Pre-cut PCL numbers for both sides of the bow, application squeegee, illustrated positioning guide, and material compliance certificate.

Boat Registration Numbers

Transport Canada TP 1332 compliant. Includes numbers for both sides of the bow.

Reflective
N/A in 4″ (100mm)

Your PCL Number Required

We cut your exact Pleasure Craft Licence number. Enter it below to add to cart.

Found on your Pleasure Craft Licence card. Format: province code + digits + check letters.

$49.99CAD · both sides
In Stock

Type your boat registration number to unlock checkout

Made in Canada
5+ Year Marine Vinyl
Ships in 1-2 Days

Boat Registration Number FAQ

What size should my boat licence number be in Canada?
Pleasure Craft Licence numbers must be at least 75 mm (3 inches) high in block letters and a colour that contrasts with the hull, per Transport Canada's Small Vessel Regulations SOR/2010-91.
Where must a pleasure craft's licence number be displayed?
The PCL number must be displayed on both sides of the bow above the waterline, in a position clearly visible from shore.
What is the difference between a licensed and registered vessel?
Licensed vessels (PCL) are for pleasure craft under 23 metres. Registered vessels are commercial or larger vessels that receive an official number and require name and port of registry markings at minimum 10 cm height.
What is a compliance label number on a boat?
A compliance label on a boat is the manufacturer's certification plate showing the vessel meets Canadian safety standards. It is separate from the PCL number and typically found on the transom or hull interior.
What is the format of Canadian boat registration numbers?
Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) numbers follow the format XX XXXX XX (2 letters, space, 4 digits, space, 2 digits). Registered vessel numbers use a different format.
Do I need boat registration numbers for a kayak or canoe?
Any boat with a motor of 10 HP (7.5 kW) or more requires a Pleasure Craft Licence. Non-motorized kayaks and canoes are exempt unless fitted with a motor.
How long do your boat number decals last?
Our marine-grade vinyl decals are rated for 5+ years of outdoor exposure, including UV, salt water, and freshwater environments. They meet all Transport Canada durability requirements.

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Get Compliant Before You Launch

Transport Canada requires PCL numbers on all motorized pleasure craft. Order today, on the water tomorrow.