(a) The owner or operator of each vessel under this subpart must ensure that the vessel number stated on the conditional permit issued under § 151.1015 is displayed so that it-

(1) Is clearly legible;

(2) Has a contrasting background;

(3) Is readily visible from either side of the vessel; and

(4) Is in block figures that are at least 18 inches in height.

(b) No person may tamper with or falsify a number required under this section.