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What Is Verified During a VIN Verification in California?

When the California DMV requires a VIN verification, a licensed verifier must physically inspect your vehicle and confirm specific identifying information using the official REG 31 form.

What Is a VIN Verification?

A VIN verification is a physical inspection of your vehicle required by the California DMV in certain situations, such as:

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  • Registering an out-of-state vehicle

  • Correcting a VIN error on a title

  • Registering a vehicle with missing paperwork

  • Special construction or kit vehicles

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A licensed VIN verifier uses the REG 31 form to document and confirm the vehicle’s identity.

Why Does the DMV Require a VIN Verification?

The DMV requires a VIN verification to:

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  • Confirm the vehicle identity

  • Prevent fraud and stolen vehicles

  • Ensure the vehicle matches DMV records

  • Verify key vehicle details before issuing a California title

What Information Is Verified on the REG 31 Form?

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The VIN is physically inspected on the vehicle and compared to paperwork.
The verifier confirms:

  • The VIN matches the title or registration

  • The VIN plate is original and readable

  • The VIN is properly attached

  • No signs of tampering or alteration

Where the VIN is commonly found:

  • Dashboard near the windshield

  • Driver-side door jamb

  • Frame or engine bay (older vehicles)

Vehicle Description

The Verifier Records: 

  • Year

  • Make

  • Model

  • Body type (sedan, truck, SUV, Etc.)

This ensures the vehicle matches DMV records.

Engine Number

Some vehicles require the engine number to be verified, especially:

  • Older Vehicles

  • Motorcycles

  • Vehicles with engine swaps

The engine number is physically located and recorded if visible.

Federal Emissions Label
 

( All Vehicles - 1968 & newer model years, Motorcycles - 1978 & newer model years, Heavy - Duty Vehicles - 1979 and newer model years, OHVs - 2003 - & newer model years)( All Vehicles - 1968 & newer model years, Motorcycles - 1978 & newer model years, Heavy - Duty Vehicles - 1979 and newer model years, OHVs - 2003 - & newer model years)

The verifier checks the under-hood or door-jamb emissions label to confirm:

The vehicle meets U.S. emissions standards

The engine family and emissions classification

The label is present and readable

This helps confirm compliance with California emissions rules.

Odometer Reading 
 

(Not required for Off Highway Vehicles or Low Speed Vehicles)

In some cases, the odometer reading is recorded to:

  • Confirm mileage

  • Support ownership or title correction cases

This does not replace a title odometer disclosure.

Vehicle Type and Fuel Type

The verifier confirms:

  • Passenger vehicle, truck, motorcycle, trailer, etc.

  • Gasoline, diesel, electric, or hybrid

What Is NOT Checked During a VIN Verification

A VIN verification is not a safety inspection or mechanical inspection.
The verifier does not:

  • Inspect brakes or tires

  • Test emissions

  • Check mechanical condition

  • Verify ownership or liens

What You Need to Prepare for Your VIN Verification

The vehicle must be physically present

Clear access to:

  • Dashboard VIN

  • Door jamb

  • Engine bay

  • Title or registration

  • Clean VIN plate and labels

Why Use a Licensed Mobile VIN Verifier?

Using a licensed VIN verifier like Rollin VIN Verifiers means:

  • Faster processing

  • Correct REG 31 completion

  • Mobile service at your location

  • Fewer DMV rejections

Ready to Schedule Your VIN Verification

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