It sits with the number, not away from it
The validation decal is meant to be read together with the registration number, so it belongs in the same band on the forward half of the hull, at the same height, on both port and starboard sides.
Answer Hub
Where does the boat validation sticker go?
The validation (expiration) sticker goes on each side of the hull near the registration number — most commonly a few inches toward the stern, in line with the characters. The exact offset is set by the state that issued it.
Reviewed August 22, 2026
State-specified offsets
Some states publish an exact distance. Arkansas places the decal three inches toward the stern of the number and in line with it. Others simply say to follow the instructions issued with the decal. Where a state does not publish an offset, we do not invent one — use the sheet that came from the agency.
Keep it separate from the number decal
The validation sticker is issued by the state and applied by you. Our registration number decals leave the sticker area clear so you can position the state-issued decal at the offset your state specifies.
Replacing at renewal
Remove the expired sticker before applying the new one — most states prohibit displaying an expired validation decal alongside a current one. Warm the old sticker gently and peel slowly to avoid lifting the number underneath.
Verified validation-decal placement by state
Validation decal location as published by each state's boating agency. Where a state does not publish an offset, the wording says so.
| State | Published wording | Agency |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | 3 inches toward the stern from the registration number and in line with it | Arkansas Game and Fish Commission |
| Texas | In line with and exactly 3 inches toward the REAR / STERN from the TX number | Texas Parks and Wildlife Department |
| Florida | PORT / LEFT side only, immediately before or after the registration number | Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles |
| California | Follow the California DMV-issued decal placement instructions | California Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Michigan | About 3 inches to the right / aft of the MC number; mirror appropriately between sides | Michigan Secretary of State / Michigan DNR |
| Wisconsin | 3 inches AFT and directly in line with the registration number | Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources |
| Minnesota | Both sides of the forward half near the registration number; use the current state-issued placement diagram | Minnesota Department of Natural Resources |
| North Carolina | Port and starboard bow, within 6 inches of the registration number | North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission |
| South Carolina | Follow the current SCDNR decal placement instructions; we do not infer an offset | South Carolina Department of Natural Resources |
| Georgia | Each side of the bow, BEFORE the GA prefix | Georgia Department of Natural Resources / Law Enforcement Division |
Rules change. Confirm with your state agency before ordering, and see the full 48-state requirement guide.
Related questions
Does the validation sticker go on both sides?
Most states issue two and require one on each side, positioned identically.
Can the sticker touch the registration number?
Leave a clear gap. States that publish an offset expect it; states that do not still expect the number to read cleanly on its own.
Do you supply the validation sticker?
No. Validation decals are issued by your state agency with your registration. We supply the registration number decals.
Keep reading
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The designer lays out a true 3-inch plain block set with correct spacing, cut from six-year marine vinyl and shipped ready to apply.
Official sources
Editorial review date: August 22, 2026. We publish state-specific rules only where an official agency source confirms them.