CIN, HIN and WIN: Understanding Vessel Identification Numbers

The CIN, HIN, and WIN numbers are part of a vessel's identity. An identification number is indeed mandatory for every motorboat, sailboat, and jet ski built in European territory since June 16, 1998.

CIN, HIN, and WIN numbers are responsible for making each boat unique and play a particular role in all administrative procedures related to navigation.

The three terms designate the identification of a motorboat, a sailboat or a jet ski.

These are 3 acronyms:

• CIN for Craft Identification Number
• HIN for Hull Identification Number
• WIN for Watercraft Identification Number.

The identification number is always a unique identifier: it is specific to the vessel concerned and cannot be modified under any circumstances.

A serial number is also assigned to each vessel engine, whether inboard or outboard.

Since June 16, 1998, all motorboats, sailboats, and jet skis sold in Europe have been equipped with this CIN, HIN, or WIN number. CE marking, which cannot be granted without the application of this numbering, guarantees the traceability and compliance of the vessel concerned.

The vessel number can be found on its builder's plate, usually located in the cockpit, on the transom, on the console or near the helm. In the case of a jet ski, it is on the sides or at the back.

It can also be found on a dedicated plate.

The boat's CIN number, whether issued by the manufacturer or subsequently granted after a compliance upgrade, is different from the vessel's registration number.

Don't confuse them: the identification number or CIN, HIN, or WIN is visible on the manufacturer's plate, while the registration number is visible from the outside – often applied to the hull or superstructure of the vessel using registration lettering.

A vessel's identification is not chosen at random; it contains a wealth of information about the craft. Let's decode the following example together: FRSPB12345A607.

(1) Country Code: ISO 3166 Alpha 2 standard (Example: FR for France).
(2) The manufacturer code is assigned by the administration.
(3) Serial number: unique construction identifier.
(4) Month of production: Represented by a letter between A and L
(5) Year of production: last digit of the year.
(6) Model Year: A 12-month period during which the vessel model is planned to be sold.

A vessel's CIN, HIN, or WIN number is a guarantee of compliance with European regulations. It allows for quick identification of whether a boat meets current standards and ensures the safety of the crew during navigation.

When buying a used boat, identifying the vessel can also be a great help: for the future buyer, checking the number makes it possible to verify the accuracy of the information provided by the seller.
Thanks to the boat's identification number, it is possible to confirm that it matches the papers provided, and to avoid fraud.

Since June 16, 1998, when a vessel is manufactured by a certified European shipyard, the number is automatically generated and affixed to the boat.

If a boat is imported from a country outside the European Union or built by an individual, the boat owner must submit a specific application to the maritime authorities.

The vessel must be assessed to receive CE marking and then obtain an identification number.

Please note: obtaining the vessel's identification number – CIN, HIN, or WIN – is a prerequisite for obtaining a pleasure craft registration card.

An effaced hull identification number can lead to complications. An official re-marking should be requested.

Yes, under the French flag, all motorized pleasure craft must bear a compliant identification number.

No. A vessel's identification number is permanent and unique. It cannot be changed or reused on another vessel.

In addition to compliance and CE marking for boats, each vessel is also assigned a design category.

This defines the sea conditions in which it is capable of navigating – in accordance with European regulations and in safety.