New Jersey Boating Certification Practice Test

How should a boat's registration number and validation decal be displayed?

1. At the stern of the boat

2. On both sides of the bow

3. Under the windshield

4. On the transom

The correct answer is: On both sides of the bow

The display of a boat's registration number and validation decal is crucial for identification and legal compliance while on the water. The correct practice requires the registration number to be prominently displayed on both sides of the bow (the front section of the boat) in a specific format. This placement ensures that the number is visible from either side, allowing for easy identification by law enforcement and other vessels. The visibility of the registration number from the bow helps ensure that boaters can be identified during inspections, helping to promote safety and adherence to boating regulations. Typically, the registration number should be in contrasting colors to the boat's surface and follow the specified font size and style as outlined by local regulations. Other display locations such as the stern, under the windshield, or on the transom may not provide the necessary visibility or may not meet legal requirements, making them unsuitable for registration identification. This reinforces the importance of displaying the registration number and decal correctly to remain compliant with state boating laws.