I should have clarified that its the validation sticker that fades. Numbers are fine.
Not sure if I can do that ( /\ ) and still conform to Princess Andie's rulings:
From NYS boater's guide-
Correct Display of Number The registration number consists of the letters NY followed by four numbers and two letters. A space, or a hyphen, the width of a letter, must separate the first and last two letters from the four middle numbers (NY 1234 AB). The numbers must be painted or permanently attached to both sides of the vessel’s bow. It should read from left to right, be of block letters not less than three inches in height, and of a color that contrasts with that of the hull. The registration number should be the only number on the forward half of the vessel and should be clearly visible and readable from at least 100 feet during daylight hours. This number may not be transferred to another vessel. 8
Validation Stickers Two validation stickers will be issued at the time of registration. These stickers will display the month and year of registration expiration. Validation stickers are to be affixed to the hull, in line with, and no further than three inches aft of, the registration number. On vessels documented for pleasure with the U.S. Coast Guard, the validation stickers should be placed approximately in the same location.
