(1) Is a hull identification number required to use a vessel on the waters of Washington state?

Yes. A hull identification number is required on any vessel that is used on the waters of this state unless application for hull identification number has been made and issuance of the hull identification number is pending.

(2) Is it unlawful to destroy, remove, alter, cover or deface the HIN?

Yes. It is unlawful for a person, firm, association or corporation to destroy, remove, alter, cover or deface a HIN.

(3) When is the hull identification number (HIN) assigned by the department?

If a HIN is not affixed during manufacture, a HIN is assigned by the vehicle field system at the time of application for registration, whenever the HIN has been:

(a) Altered;

(b) Removed;

(c) Obliterated;

(d) Defaced;

(e) Omitted; or

(f) Is otherwise absent.

If the model year of the vessel is a 1985 or newer, then the HIN will be verified via the manufacturer's statement of origin (MSO).

(4) How is the department assigned HIN affixed to the vessel?

(a) The HIN must be clearly imprinted or otherwise permanently affixed above the waterline in such a way that alteration, removal, or replacement would be obvious or evident; and

(b) The HIN must be at least one quarter of an inch in height and shall be placed on:

(i) The outboard starboard side of the transom; or

(ii) The outermost starboard side at the end of the hull that bears the rudder of other steering mechanism, if there is no transom.

(5) Can the previous HIN be reaffixed?

The department may authorize the vessel owner to reaffix the HIN.

(6) If a HIN is missing on a vessel that is abandoned on or along a public highway, may the vessel be processed through the abandoned vehicle process?

Yes, if a certificate of ownership/registration has been issued. If not, then vessels abandoned on or along the public highways may not be processed through the abandoned vehicle statute (chapter 46.55 RCW). Such vessels are considered personal property and must be disposed of in accordance with chapters 63.32, 63.35 and 63.40 RCW.