Vessel registration number.
F.S. 328.56
in effectEach vessel that is operated, used, or stored on the waters of this state must display a commercial or recreational Florida registration number, unless it is:
(1)
A vessel operated, used, and stored exclusively on private lakes and ponds;
(2)
A vessel owned by the United States Government;
(3)
A vessel used exclusively as a ship’s lifeboat;
(4)
A non-motor-powered vessel less than 16 feet in length or a non-motor-powered canoe, kayak, racing shell, or rowing scull, regardless of length;
(5)
A federally documented vessel;
(6)
A vessel already covered by a registration number in full force and effect which has been awarded to it pursuant to a federally approved numbering system of another state or by the United States Coast Guard in a state without a federally approved numbering system, if the vessel has not been within this state for a period in excess of 90 consecutive days;
(7)
A vessel operating under a valid temporary certificate of number;
(8)
A vessel from a country other than the United States temporarily using the waters of this state; or
(9)
An undocumented vessel used exclusively for racing.
Source: FL Statutes (Official Site)URL: https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2025/Chapter328/AllFetched: 7/8/2026