How to Check an HIN Number, if a Jet Ski Is Stolen

Stolen vehicles are often resold on the open market. If buyers don't apply the same due diligence toward Jet Skis that they do to vehicles; they will be more susceptible to buying a stolen watercraft. The hull identification number, or HIN is standard on every Jet Ski manufactured within the U.S., and is unique number that identifies each watercraft. If it is ever reported stolen, the owner must submit the HIN to the appropriate authority or department. There are a few ways you can check to see if a Jet Ski is stolen.

Instructions

    • 1

      Contact the local police or sheriff's department by phone or in person, and check to see if the HIN belongs to a stolen Jet Ski. In Florida, for example, interested parties can enter the HIN in their online "Stolen Boats" database.

    • 2

      Submit the HIN to the state department that is responsible for registering watercraft. In California, for example, the Department of Motor Vehicles is responsible for the registration of watercraft; in Wisconsin it is the Department of Natural Resources.

    • 3

      Call the Jet Ski manufacturer's warranty department. Submit the HIN to the customer service representative and ask if the jet ski has been reported stolen.