NORTH CAROLINA.
Check documented-vessel status before ordering NC numbers

NC Wildlife says Coast Guard documented vessels must not display an NC registration number, but must display the official decals on both sides of the forward bow. For numbered vessels, its guide specifies contrasting solid-color block characters at least three inches high, reading left to right on both forward sides, with letter groups separated from numerals. It places official decals within six inches of the registration number. Confirm which case applies before entering text in the boat configurator.

Official reference: www.ncwildlife.gov

Photograph each side square-on and measure the usable flat area independently. Record the complete assigned text from the current registration card, desired character height, overall available width and the space reserved for the official decal. Include seams, trim, rails and existing artwork in the photographs. A close-up without a ruler cannot establish the finished size. If the required layout does not fit, pause the order and resolve placement with the authority rather than squeezing the lettering into an unreadable design.

Before requesting a replacement, identify the item that is damaged: custom registration characters, decorative boat-name lettering, or the government-issued validation decal. We can quote custom lettering from the text you supply; renewal and official replacement decals must be handled through the issuing agency. Save a photograph and dimensions of the approved original layout so a later single-side repair can be reviewed against it. A photograph alone does not confirm that an old registration is still current.

A boat, tow vehicle and trailer may travel together but need different artwork and measurements. Label each item by vehicle or vessel and side. For contractor or fleet graphics, provide the approved business name and any applicable carrier or credential text separately from the logo. For race trailers, supply the current sponsor artwork and placement approval. This ordering worksheet is production advice, not an assertion that every North Carolina vehicle requires the same identifiers.

For a North Carolina shipment, provide the receiving ZIP code, contact person and whether a business or installer will accept the package. Ask for material, freight and production timing confirmation with the quote. Printed wrap panels require the installer’s final dimensions, panel divisions and overlap instructions; installation is arranged separately. Keep the approved proof with the exported specification list so the receiver can check each piece. The saved configuration is a planning record, not a paid order or a promised arrival date.