How to Find a VIN Number

A VIN, short for Vehicle Identification Number, is a 17-character serial number comprised of letters and numbers and attached to each vehicle for identification purposes.
VIN numbers are used to verify a vehicle's authenticity, track its history, and for insurance and titling purposes. Vehicles manufactured prior to 1981 may have a VIN number less than 17 characters, while vehicles manufactured prior to 1969 may have no VIN number at all.

Instructions

1. Find the VIN number inside the vehicle. For vehicles manufactured in 1981 and on, the easiest place to find the VIN number is on the driver's side dashboard. The easiest way to view the VIN number is by standing outside of the vehicle on the driver's side and looking down through the windshield at the dash. You may also be able to find the VIN number printed on the bottom driver's side door or door jam or underneath the spare tire in the trunk.

2. Find the VIN number on the vehicle's exterior. Older vehicles may have the VIN number printed on the front end of the frame on the driver's side. You can also find the VIN number printed directly on top of the vehicle's engine.

3. Review the vehicle's insurance card. Most insurance companies include this information on their cards, so you should be able to find the VIN number somewhere at the top with the rest of the vehicle's information. If not, you can call the insurance company to find the VIN number they have on file.

4. Review the vehicle's title. In 1969, some car manufacturers began printing the VIN number for each vehicle on the vehicle's title. You may not be able to find a VIN number on the title of a car manufactured prior to 1981, but titles for all cars made in and after this year should have it.