Correct Display of "OH" Numbers and Tags (for traditional boat registrations)

Your boat's "OH" number should appear on both the port (left) and starboard (right) forward half (bow) of your boat.

The OH numbers must be:

  • 3 inches high,
  • block letters of good proportion,
  • a plain color in contrast to the background or boat color,
  • and clearly visible and legible.

The letters of the prefix and suffix should be separated from the numbers by a hyphen or an equivalent space.

OH-1234-AB

or

OH  1234  AB

No other numerals or letters may be displayed on the bow.

Placing the Registration Decal

The registration decal should be placed 6 inches away from the numbers toward the stern (back) of the boat.

location of tags in relation to OH numbers

The tags must be clearly visible in normal conditions and affixed prior to operation of the watercraft.

Display of Numbers with Decal

Sample of how tags and numbers can be displayed
Sample of how tags and numbers can be displayed

Placement of Alternative Registration Decal

The alternative numbering method is available for hand-powered boats, canoes and kayaks. Instead of displaying boat numbers and a decal on boat sides of a boat, the Alternative Registration method allows, for a higher fee, the option of displaying a single, rectangular decal.

Samples of how Alternative Registration decal can be displayed

The rectangular tag may be placed in one of four places:

  • in the upper right corner of the transom;
  • on a deck on the rear half of the vessel;
  • on the outside below the port side gunnel; or
  • on the inside of the vessel on the upper portion of the starboard side gunnel so that it is visible from the port side of the vessel.

NOTE: This alternate registration method should not be used if there is a possibility of ever using a motor or sail with the vessel.