FAA Regulations

The following is a summary the FAA regulations related to registration numbers on aircraft:
(Read the actual excerpt from 14 CFR 45 by clicking here)

REGISTRATION MARKING SIZE

Aircraft Type
Minimum Registration Size

PRODUCTION AIRCRAFT

Aircraft Less Than 30 Years Old
12″
Aircraft 30 Years Old or Older
2″

EXPERIMENTAL AIRCRAFT

Up to 180 Kts C.A.S.
3″
Faster than 180 Kts C.A.S.
12″

REGISTRATION MARKING PLACEMENT

Aircraft/Marking Type
Minimum Registration Size
Production or Experimental Aircraft
– 12″ or 2″ Markings

Horizontally on the:

  • Tail;
  • Fuselage between the trailing edge of the Wing and the leading edge of the Horizontal Stabilizer; or
  • Jet Engine Nacelles
Rotorcraft 12″ Markings

Horizontally on the:

  • Fuselage;
  • Cabin;
  • Tail; or
  • Boom
Experimental 3″ Markings

Horizontally on the:

  • Tail; or
  • Fuselage between the trailing edge of the Wing and the leading edge of the Horizontal Stabilizer.
  • Tail
Additional Note

Aircraft built between 11/1/81 and 1/1/83 may retain 2″ high markings until they are repainted, at which time they have to comply with the above regulations.

Need Help Changing Your N#?

For a small fee, Aerospace Reports will assist you with the paperwork process to change your aircraft N#.
N# Reservation – $60.00
Paperwork to Change an N#: $40.00

Contact:
Jeff Snowden at Aerospace Reports
800-765-2336
[email protected]
www.aerospacereports.com