I just went through the process of having a HIN # assigned. Yes it can be done just takes a little time.

Here is the response from the DMV when I inquired..

IN ORDER TO REGISTER THE BOAT YOU WILL NEED THE FOLLOWING:

B148
BILL OF SALE
B203 COMPLETED BY THE PERSON YOU BOUGHT THE BOAT FROM
CALL THE DEPT OF ENVIROMENTAL PROTECTION AND ENERGY - IN ORDER FOR THEM TO ASSIGN A HULL NUMBER. (PHONE # 860-434-8638)

You will deal with Tim Delgado and Sue Simmonds, both were very helpful and a pleasure to work with.

The process was pretty easy...the DMV to register it??? Not so much, it just takes forever!

Good luck