Bernard Engraving

About Bernard Engraving Co.

Bernard Engraving has been a trusted name in marine identification and signage for decades. Headquartered in Bridgeport, CT, the company has served the boating industry since at least 1958, building a reputation for practical, durable marking solutions that hold up in demanding marine environments. From electrical panel labels to vessel registration plates, Bernard Engraving products are found on boats of every size across the country.

What sets Bernard Engraving apart is the sheer breadth of its catalog. Product identification labels are at the heart of what the brand does best. Their iconic Identi-Plates™ are widely regarded as the industry standard for switch and panel labeling, featuring white engraved lettering on a gloss black molded plastic background. Stocking over 150 of the most popular switch labels in the classic 1/2" x 1-1/2" size, Bernard makes it easy to keep onboard systems clearly organized and compliant with safety standards.

For boaters navigating state registration requirements, Bernard's registration number plates offer a clean, professional solution. Available in both hard plastic and pressure-sensitive vinyl-mylar formats, these plates are engineered to suit wood, fiberglass, metal, and inflatable hulls alike. Hard plastic versions attach with screws for easy removal at refinishing time, while pressure-sensitive plates bond directly to smooth hull surfaces for a seamless look.

Beyond registration hardware, Bernard Engraving's lineup of plaques, decals, and Identi-Plates covers a wide range of informational and safety labeling needs. The U.S. Coast Guard requires various informational plaques on different classes of vessels, and Bernard stocks the necessary, up-to-date versions — most also available in a convenient vinyl label format. The brand rounds out its signage offerings with novelty and humor-driven poster and garage sign products, the kind of fun maritime-themed pieces you'll find hanging in boathouses, workshops, and game rooms everywhere.

Across every product category, Bernard Engraving prioritizes outdoor durability. Their vinyl lettering is formulated to withstand UV exposure, moisture, vibration, and marine cleaning products, with typical lifespans of five to seven years in outdoor use. Lettering is available in both outdoor-grade vinyl and rigid plastic, with character heights ranging from 1 inch to 12 inches to suit everything from compact panel labels to large sail letters. For applications requiring something truly unique, Bernard also offers custom engraved plates in plastic or stainless steel.

Whether you're outfitting a new vessel, refitting an electrical panel, meeting USCG compliance requirements, or just adding some personality to your dock space, Bernard Engraving has a ready-made — or custom-made — solution waiting.