Check the VIN on the vehicle dashboard near the windshield
Check the VIN on the driver’s side door jamb
Check the VIN on the vehicle title or registration
Check the VIN on the insurance card or policy documents
Compare all VIN locations to make sure they match
Use the National Insurance Crime Bureau VINCheck tool
Use the NHTSA VIN Decoder
Use your state DMV website for free VIN lookup options
Search the VIN in a free vehicle history report service
Ask the seller for the VIN and verify it against the vehicle
Look for signs of tampering, scratches, or altered plates
Verify the VIN format is 17 characters for modern vehicles
Check the VIN through a manufacturer’s official website if available