Buy Boat Registration Numbers
Canada-Wide — From $34.99
Every motorized pleasure craft in Canada (10 hp+) must display its Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) number on both sides of the bow. Our marine-grade vinyl is cut in Port Colborne, Ontario and ships across Canada in 1-2 business days.
⚠️ 2026 PCL Renewal Changes: Lifetime pleasure craft licences are being phased out. All PCLs now require renewal every 5 years ($24 fee). New licence number = new hull markings required.Full renewal guide →
PCL Display Requirements — Small Vessel Regulations
Minimum 75mm (3″)
Block characters at least 75mm high. We cut at 76mm+ to exceed the minimum.
Both Sides of Bow
PCL number displayed on both the port and starboard sides of the bow, above the waterline.
Contrasting Colour
Dark numbers on light hulls, light numbers on dark hulls. Must be clearly legible.
Fines: $250–$5,000
Missing or illegible PCL numbers can result in fines under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.
Order Your Boat Numbers
Boat Registration Numbers (PCL)
From $34.99
Pre-cut PCL numbers for both sides of the bow. 75mm minimum height. Transport Canada Small Vessel Regulations compliant.
Boat Name & Port of Registry
From $49.99
Custom vessel name lettering for the stern. Required for registered vessels under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.
Marine Registration Complete Kit
From $79.99
PCL numbers + vessel name + port of registry. Everything you need in one order.
PWC / Jet Ski Numbers
From $29.99
Registration numbers for personal watercraft. Same PCL display requirements apply.
Boat Numbers by Province
PCL requirements are federal (Transport Canada), so the same rules apply across Canada. Select your province for local shipping estimates and popular waterways.
Ontario
Lake Ontario, Georgian Bay, Muskoka, Thousand Islands, Rideau Canal
British Columbia
Pacific Coast, Okanagan Lake, Shuswap Lake, Gulf Islands
Quebec
St. Lawrence River, Laurentian Lakes, Lac Saint-Jean
Alberta
Lake Louise, Sylvan Lake, Pigeon Lake, Gull Lake
Manitoba
Lake Winnipeg, Whiteshell, Lake Manitoba
Saskatchewan
Lake Diefenbaker, Lac La Ronge, Emma Lake
Nova Scotia
Atlantic Coast, Bras d'Or Lake, Halifax Harbour
New Brunswick
Bay of Fundy, Saint John River, Miramichi
Frequently Asked Questions
What format are Canadian boat registration numbers?
The Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) number follows the format XX A XXXX (two digits, one letter, four digits — e.g., 12A3456). Numbers issued before 2007 may use a provincial letter prefix (e.g., ON for Ontario).
What size do boat registration numbers need to be?
Under the Small Vessel Regulations, PCL numbers must be displayed in block characters at least 75mm (3 inches) high. They must be permanently affixed — not handwritten, taped, or removable.
Where do I display my PCL numbers?
On both sides of the bow (front of the vessel), above the waterline. Numbers must contrast with the hull colour — dark numbers on light hulls, light numbers on dark hulls.
Do I need to replace my boat numbers when I renew my PCL?
Only if your PCL number changes. Under the 2026 renewal rules, some lifetime licence holders may receive a new number upon renewal. If your number changes, your hull markings must be updated within 30 days.
What are the fines for missing boat registration numbers?
Fines range from $250 to $5,000 under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001. Enforcement officers can issue tickets on-the-water during routine patrols.
Do kayaks and canoes need registration numbers?
Only if they have a motor of 10 hp (7.5 kW) or more. Unpowered craft and those with motors under 10 hp are exempt from the PCL requirement.
Ready to Order?
Choose your product above or call us. We cut your PCL numbers the same business day and ship via Canada Post.
Upload your design · Get a free proof
No payment until you approve. Or call (289) 228-7021