Effective 1-1-2021.

1. (b) Proof of registration for display on the watercraft must be displayed in a manner prescribed by the department of natural resources, including the following:

   1. (1) The registration number set forth in the certificate of registration must be displayed on each side of the bow of the watercraft. The display must be legible. However, a watercraft that has a valid marine document issued by the United States Bureau of Customs is not required to display the registration number.
   2. (2) If a watercraft is required to be registered under 33 CFR 173, the registration number must be displayed in the manner prescribed by 33 CFR 173.27.

   3. (3) Decals indicating the year of expiration of registration, with a unique identification number and a different color than colors used for the previous registration year, must be affixed:

      1. (A) to the bow of each side of the watercraft, within three (3) inches to the right of the watercraft's registration number; or

      2. (B) on each side of the forward half of the bow above the water line of the watercraft if a registration number is not required to be displayed.

         However, the department of natural resources may adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 providing that the decals do not have to be affixed to a particular type of watercraft.

2. (c) A number other than the number awarded to a watercraft or granted reciprocity under this chapter may not be painted, attached, or otherwise displayed on each side of the bow of the watercraft.

3. (d) A person that fails to:

   1. (1) carry a certificate of registration or a legible reproduction of a certificate of registration; or

   2. (2) display proof of registration for display on the watercraft as required by the department of natural resources;

      commits a Class C infraction.

4. (e) Certificates of registration, decals, and other proof of registration issued under this section:

   1. (1) remain the property of the bureau; and
   2. (2) may be revoked, canceled, or repossessed as provided by law.
5. (f) A person who knowingly or intentionally falsifies, predates, changes, or counterfeits proof of registration for a watercraft commits a Class C misdemeanor.

Sec. 5. (a) If the bureau determines that a person applying to register a watercraft is entitled to register the watercraft, the bureau shall register the watercraft and issue to the applicant proof of registration for display on the watercraft and a certificate of registration.

As added by P.L.164-2020, SEC.38.