Ed,
You need to check with your state (who ever) to find out. Indiana uses BMV for HIN. (Hull identification number) They get a small fee and issue you a HIN. I believe for those states that don't care folks do put there names in there! I've never known of any one to be prosecuted for failing to abide by USCG spec, it's for your protection is what they are all about. (Or so they say)
Hope this helps,
Danny