Replacing Boat Registration Stickers: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you need to replace your boat registration stickers, you'll first need to decide whether you're keeping the same registration number or getting a new one. If you're keeping the same number, take a photo of the stickers before you remove them. To remove the stickers, use a hairdryer on a low setting to warm them up and slowly peel them off. Then, use a small amount of acetone or glass cleaner to remove any sticky residue. Before applying new stickers, check that the colour of your boat's hull hasn't faded and that the new stickers will be easy to read against it.

Photograph the stickers before removing them

When replacing boat registration stickers, it is important to photograph the stickers before removing them. This is because the registration generally remains with the boat, and you will want to refer to the old stickers when applying the new ones. The longer the stickers have been on, the more they will be 'stuck' to the boat, so taking a photograph first allows you to work carefully when removing them.

Additionally, your boat's hull colour may have faded since the stickers were applied, and the old stickers will show you the exact shade of the hull underneath. This will be useful when lining up the new stickers, as you will be able to position them over the old spots, avoiding any discolouration. Taking a photograph will also allow you to match the spacing and font of the new stickers with the old ones.

It is also a good idea to photograph the stickers so that you can refer to the old registration number if you need to reorder or if there is an issue with your new stickers. This will ensure that you can quickly and easily resolve any problems, without having to remove the new stickers to check the old number.

Overall, taking a photograph of the stickers before removing them is a simple step that will make the process of replacing your boat registration stickers much easier and help you to achieve a neat and accurate result.

Warm the stickers with a hair dryer for easier peeling

When removing boat registration stickers, it's important to consider the length of time they've been adhered to the hull. The longer they've been on, the more 'stuck' they are. Warming the stickers with a hair dryer is a good way to make them more pliable and easier to peel off.

To do this, set your hair dryer to "low" and hold it 2 inches away from the surface of the sticker. You can also use a heat gun for this purpose, but be aware that heat can damage certain surfaces, such as lacquered wood. Warming the sticker slowly and gently is key, as you don't want to risk damaging the boat's hull.

Blow warm air on the sticker for about 30 seconds, then try to pick at a corner with your fingernail to see if it has loosened. If it hasn't, continue heating for up to 5 minutes, checking periodically to ensure the hull is not damaged. Once the sticker is warmed up, it should be softer and more pliable, making it easier to peel off in one piece.

If you feel resistance or notice residue sticking to the hull, you can reapply heat to the underside of the sticker as you slowly pull it away. This will help soften the adhesive and make removal easier. Just be careful not to overheat the sticker or the hull, as this could cause damage.

By warming the stickers with a hair dryer, you can avoid tearing and cracking, and make the process of replacing your boat registration stickers much smoother.

Remove sticky residue with acetone or glass cleaner

Removing sticky residue with acetone or glass cleaner is an effective way to get rid of the gunk left behind by stickers. Acetone is a powerful solvent that can be found in nail polish remover, and it's safe to use on most surfaces, including plastic, glass, and metal. Glass cleaner is also a great option for removing sticky residue, and it's readily available in stores.

To use acetone, start by choosing either pure acetone or an acetone-based nail polish remover. Avoid combining acetone with other chemicals, such as rubbing alcohol. Apply the acetone directly to a cloth or paper towel, dampening it slightly more than you would normally, as acetone dries quickly. Then, gently rub the sticky residue with the dampened cloth until it comes off. You may need to reapply acetone and repeat the process a few times to completely remove the residue.

If you're using glass cleaner, follow a similar process. Spray the glass cleaner directly onto the sticky residue or onto a cloth or paper towel, and then gently rub the area until the residue is gone. Like acetone, you may need to apply glass cleaner multiple times to fully remove the residue.

In addition to acetone and glass cleaner, there are several other effective methods for removing sticky residue. One option is to use a plastic scraper, such as an old gift card or a plastic knife, to safely scrape away the residue without scratching the surface. Soaking the item in hot water and dish detergent can also help to soften and remove the residue. Alternatively, you can use a hairdryer to warm up the residue, making it easier to scrape or wipe away.

Prepare the hull for new sticker application

Before applying new registration stickers to your boat's hull, there are a few important steps to take to ensure proper adhesion and a clean appearance. Here's a detailed guide to help you prepare the hull for new sticker application:

• Clean the hull surface: Choose a calm day with air temperatures above 65°Fahrenheit to apply the new stickers. Start by washing the area where the old stickers were located with soap and water to remove any salt, scum, or residue. Rinse the area thoroughly with water and dry it completely with a clean towel to prevent water spots.
• Remove any remaining residue: Once the hull surface is clean and dry, use a small amount of acetone or glass cleaner to remove any sticky residue left behind by the old stickers. This step is crucial for ensuring the new stickers adhere properly.
• Consider the colour and spacing: If your boat's hull has faded since the last time you applied stickers, you may need to consider the colour and spacing of the new stickers. You can match the font and colour to ensure a consistent appearance. While spacing may not be exact, you can use a reference point, such as the prefix code (e.g. MC for Michigan or MI for Mississippi), to align your new stickers.
• Prepare the new stickers: Order your new boat registration stickers, ensuring they comply with state regulations. Most states require 3-inch block letters for boat registration stickers. When you receive the new stickers, they will typically come on a single piece of transfer paper, making them easy to apply.
• Choose your application method: You can choose between the dry and wet application methods. The dry method is simpler, but the wet method allows for more repositioning if needed. For the wet method, lightly spray the adhesive side of the transfer paper with water before applying the sticker.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your boat's hull is properly prepared for new sticker application, resulting in a clean and professional appearance.

Display the registration number and expiration decals correctly

To display the registration number and expiration decals correctly, you must follow these rules:

The registration number must be placed on each side of the forward half of the vessel. This includes both the port and starboard sides of the bow. The number must be readable from left to right on both sides.

The number must be in BLOCK letters and at least three inches high. The colour of the numbers must contrast with the background so that they are legible. Two-toned and camouflage numbers are not permitted.

Letters and numbers must be separated by a space of at least two inches. For example, the format should be: WS 1234 AB.

The expiration decal must be affixed three inches behind the number (towards the stern) and in line with it.

Frequently asked questions