My boat was purchased new and I just got my documentation packet. Unfortunately, I have not yet had time to get the name placed on it as I was waiting to get the packet to get my number and do it all at once. Is there any risk to running it this weekend without the name, hailing port and internal numbers on there yet? The cover letter says 'The Certificate of Documentation will not be deemed valid until the vessel is marked in accordance with this application' and then references the name, hailing port and official number.

Does this mean that I am technically not yet registered and would just get a ticket? Or is it bigger than that? Certainly don't want to risk anything for 1 weekend. Thanks in advance...

Only if you get stoped by the cost gaurd or local harbor partrol.
And if you do, then you have a problem.

I'll only be on my inland lake so not much concern there.

However, you have peaked my interest . What would happen if it CG stopped me?

I dont have room on my transom for my hailing port....

If you get stopped, just say that you are still waiting for your USCG docs to come back.

You may want to get an el cheapo set of Letters from Home Depot or WalMart.

Lay down a couple lengths of shrink wrap tape at the top of the transom. Then apply the el cheapo letters to the shrink wrap tape.

I know it sounds ridiculous, but its better than a hassle. It all depends on your potential of getting boarded (pulled over). You know the lake better than the rest of us.

More than likely, it would just be a ticket.

That is the other problem I have....says the letters need to be 4". I will never make that happen on my transom

Must be 4" letters for name and 3" for the halling port.The 3's go on the inside of the boat like in the engine compartment.Hope to see the sunny in june and tell Lisa we said hi.

Rich...2 things;
1 - From the letter, it seemed like the hailing port also needs to be on the outside at 4" and the offical number is 3" and goes in the inside - can you confirm?
2 - Lisa and I will be their 1 week from today, so we'll see you then. Start chilling the Corona's!!!

Shawn go to K-Mart or Wal-Mart to the sporting goods section where they sell hunting and fishing licenses. Bring the paperwork indicating hul number etc. and they will sell you A "TEMPORARY" 30 day registration you simply carry onboard for like $10.50

Another option would be to buy some cheap vinyl stick on lettering as a temp solution pending the real deal. Personally I would just go with the temp registration and be prepared for inspections if the ranger or police gets curious.