Craft Identification Number
One of the requirements of the Recreational Craft Directive (RCD) is that
every CE-marked boat has a unique identity number that can be used
to identify the country of origin, the builder and year of build of
the boat.
The Craft Identification Number (CIN) is a 14-digit code that is
marked on the boat in two places, one on the starboard side of the
transom and a second hidden within the boat. The CIN is usually
moulded or etched into the fabric of the boat hull to ensure
permanency.
Details of how to formulate a CIN are available in EN ISO
10087:2006.
The CIN consists of a two-letter code to denote country of
origin (boats built in the UK use GB), followed by a three-letter
code to denote the manufacturer. This code is known as the
Manufacturer’s Identity Code (MIC) and is unique
to the boatbuilder.
In the UK the register of MIC is maintained by the British
Marine Federation on behalf of the Department for Business Innovation and
Skills (BIS). To apply for a MIC please click here or email technical@britishmarine.co.uk.
The register maintained by the British Marine Federation is for
professional boatbuilders.
Amateur boatbuilders should apply to the Royal Yachting Association for a five
digit number which is then used with the GB country code and MIC
‘RYA’.