A HIN is a 12-character alphanumeric identifier required on all recreational boats sold in the US, analogous to a vehicle VIN. For imported boats, the manufacturer or importer must ensure the HIN is properly formatted and affixed in the required locations before the vessel can be titled, registered, or sold. Boats without a compliant HIN may be refused entry or require correction before sale.

Yes. Marine propulsion engines — whether outboard, sterndrive, or inboard — must meet EPA emission standards for hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide. Importers of complete boats with engines must confirm that the engine model is EPA-certified for the US market; non-certified engines cannot be legally sold or operated in the US and may require export or destruction if found non-compliant.