A. Each vessel shall have a hull identification number assigned and affixed. The department shall assign a hull identification number to an undocumented vessel not having a hull identification number at the time of numbering or application for a certificate of title after transfer of ownership or change of state of principal operation.
B. Vessels shall be assigned a hull identification number using the procedure set forth in R.S. 34:851.20(M). Hull identification numbers issued by the department shall be for identification purposes only and shall not guarantee the seaworthiness or certify compliance with safety standards as required by the United States Coast Guard.
C. A person shall not destroy, remove, alter, cover, or deface the manufacturer's hull identification number or the plate bearing it, or any hull identification number the department assigns to any vessel, without authorization from the department and the United States Coast Guard.