Prefix, numerals, suffix
A registration number is built from a state prefix, a numeral group, and one or two suffix letters — for example TX 1234 AB. The prefix identifies the issuing state, the rest identifies your vessel.
Answer Hub
What does the prefix on my boat registration number mean?
The two letters at the front of your registration number identify the state that issued it. The prefix usually matches the postal abbreviation, but not always — Washington issues WN and California issues CF.
Reviewed August 22, 2026
Where the prefix is not the postal code
Washington uses WN rather than WA, and California uses CF rather than CA. Ordering the postal code instead of the assigned prefix is one of the most common reasons a set has to be redone.
Order exactly what is printed on your certificate
Copy the number character for character from your registration card. Do not shorten the suffix, add leading zeros, or substitute a prefix you believe is correct — the assigned number is what must be displayed.
The separator is part of the format
Most states require a hyphen or a space equal to one character width between the prefix, numerals, and suffix. The separator is part of the assigned format, not a styling choice.
Verified number examples by state
Assigned-number examples taken from each state's own material — note the states where the prefix is not the postal code.
| State | Published wording | Agency |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | WN 1234 ZZ | Washington State Department of Licensing |
| California | CF 1234 AB | California Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Texas | TX 1234 AB | Texas Parks and Wildlife Department |
| Florida | FL 1234 AB | Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles |
| Michigan | MC 1234 AB | Michigan Secretary of State / Michigan DNR |
| Wisconsin | WS 9999 ZZ | Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources |
| Minnesota | MN 1234 AB | Minnesota Department of Natural Resources |
| Ohio | OH 0000 AA | Ohio Department of Natural Resources / Ohio Administrative Code |
| New York | NY 1234 AB | New York Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Pennsylvania | PA 1234 AB | Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission |
Rules change. Confirm with your state agency before ordering, and see the full 48-state requirement guide.
Related questions
Why is my Washington number WN and not WA?
Washington's assigned vessel prefix is WN. The postal abbreviation and the vessel prefix are different things.
Does the prefix change if I move?
Yes. Re-registering in a new state produces a new number with that state's prefix.
Can I leave the prefix off if it is obvious?
No. The full assigned number, including the prefix, must be displayed.
Keep reading
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Official sources
Editorial review date: August 22, 2026. We publish state-specific rules only where an official agency source confirms them.