Vessel Name Display Requirements — Transport Canada
Canada Shipping Act 2001 · Federal — Canada
§Source summary
Canada Shipping Act 2001 — Canada Shipping Act 2001
Registered vessels generally display the vessel name on the stern and on each bow, in clearly visible characters.
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If your boat is registered (not just licensed), it must show the vessel name. Licenced pleasure crafts are not required to show a name.
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Vessel name on stern (registered vessels)
Name on bow optional for licensed craft
Characters should be clearly visible
Port of registry below name on stern
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Boat Registration Numbers — PCL Decals
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📚Sources & Authority
Use the linked primary sources to confirm the current conditions for your specific asset or move. This page is a plain-language guide, not an approval or permit.
🏛 Official Government Sources
Pleasure Craft Licensing — Transport Canada
Transport Canada · March 2026
Official Transport Canada page for Pleasure Craft Licensing. Covers who needs a PCL, how to apply, number display requirements, and renewal.
Small Vessel Regulations — SOR/2010-91
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Small Vessel Regulations define marking requirements for pleasure craft including PCL number size (75mm minimum), placement (both sides of bow), and colour contrast.
Canada Shipping Act, 2001
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Canada Shipping Act is the federal legislation governing all vessel registration, safety, and compliance in Canadian waters.
🏢 Industry Organizations
All sources are official government publications or recognized industry authorities. Links verified March 2026. If you find a broken link, let us know.
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- Regulation
- Canada Shipping Act 2001
- Jurisdiction
- 🇨🇦 Federal — Canada
- Category
- Marine & Boating Law
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