Whether you're buying a car from out of state or registering a custom-built motorcycle, understanding when a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Verification is required can save you time and avoid delays at the DMV.

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When is a VIN Verification required?

According to Chapter 1, Section 1.165 the California DMV Handbook, VIN Verification is always required in the following situations: 

• Out-of-state vehicles — if your vehicle was last registered in another state
• Salvage or junk vehicles — if you're reregistering a previously salvaged or junked vehicle (unless your application includes a CHP Certificate of Inspection form, CHP 97C)
• Specially constructed vehicles (SPCNS) — for any specially constructed vehicle or trailer
• No California record — if the DMV has no record of the vehicle (except when purchased new from a licensed California dealer using form REG 397)
• Engine or VIN changes — if you've replaced an engine, changed a motorcycle engine case or updated the VIN
• VIN assignment — when the DMV is assigning a new VIN to your vehicle
• VIN discrepancies — if the VIN on your documents doesn't match DMV records
• Non-compliant emissions — vehicles that don't meet California emission standards

If your vehicle falls into any of the above categories, a VIN Verification is mandatory before you can complete your registration or title transfer.

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When is a VIN Verification NOT required?

Fortunately, there are several scenarios where a VIN verification is not needed:

• Goldenrod exemption — if your KSR displays “Goldenrod” and you have a valid out-of-state title, no VIN verification is required, which is indicated in the Record Condition section of the KSR

• New trailers Permanent Trailer Identification (PTI):
  
  • Not modified, altered, or assembled from a kit
  • Never registered before
  • A secure Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) is provided for the complete trailer
• New commercial vehicles (out of state):
  
  • Must be purchased as a complete vehicle or as an incomplete vehicle with a new body added
  • Must have never been registered in California or only issued International Registration Plan (IRP) registration within the last 60 days
  • Must have an unladen weight of 6,001 lbs. or more
  • Not modified, altered, or kit-assembled

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Why VIN Verification matters

VIN Verification helps ensure a vehicle is legally registered, properly titled, and safe for California roads. Whether buying, selling or transferring ownership, completing this step at the right time helps avoid legal headaches and penalties down the road.

For more information, click to access 1.165 Vehicle Verifications of the DMV’s Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual.

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Become a licensed Vehicle Verifier

Speaking of vehicle verification, RMP offers the VV — Vehicle Verification online course that walks you through the process and prepares you to become a licensed vehicle verifier — an invaluable asset for your dealership. To learn more and register, click the button below to visit our RMP website.

We have some Calendar Wheels and Reference Cards available on request. Just send marketing@vitu.com an email telling us which ones you want, the amount you would like, the address of where to send them, and who to send them to. Feel free to request as many as you like and we will send them directly to you, at no charge, while supplies last.

Does the title and reg process ever feel like a road with too many detours? We’ve got your shortcut.

Vitu RMP’s Vehicle Title and Registration Fundamentals training is a one-day, in‑person course built to help California dealership pros like you navigate the ins‑and‑outs of California title and reg with total confidence.
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What’s in it for you?

• Get hands-on with essential DMV forms including Virtual Reports of Sale, titles and odometer disclosures
• Learn to avoid common (and costly) title and reg mishaps
• Walk out with digital and printed resources you’ll actually use
• Fuel up — pastries, tea and coffee are included
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When?

‍Wednesday, July 23, 2025, 9:00AM – 3:00PM
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Where?

‍New Car Dealers Association San Diego County 

10065 Mesa Ridge Court

San Diego, CA 92121
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Space is limited — don’t miss your chance to get in the driver’s seat.