Where to look
On most boats built after 1972, the HIN is on the upper starboard (right) side of the transom, near the top. It may be molded, engraved, or on a plate. Many newer boats also have a second copy in a hidden location.
How to read it
A modern HIN has 12 characters: a three-character manufacturer code, a five-character serial number, and four characters for the build date and model year.
If you cannot find it
Check the title, the registration, or old insurance documents. If the HIN is missing from the boat, your state may require an inspection before retitling.
Reading the build date
The last four characters encode when the boat was built and its model year. That is how buyers and agencies confirm the boat's age.
When the HIN is damaged
Faded or damaged HINs are common on older boats. Your state may inspect the boat and confirm or assign a number. Tell us if yours is hard to read.
Take a photo
Photograph the HIN and include it with your form. It speeds up title work.
Questions
My boat is older than 1972. Does it have a HIN?
It may have a serial number instead. Your state may assign a number if needed.
What if the HIN on the boat does not match the title?
Tell us. It is sometimes a typo on the title that can be corrected.
Do trailers have a HIN?
No. Trailers have a VIN, usually on the tongue.
Is the HIN on the registration card?
Usually, yes.
Do sailboats have HINs?
Yes, if built after 1972.