The Expert Podcast

Can you run the VIN of a vehicle to check its history online? The answer is no. Well, you can run it, but it may not have all the information. It probably won't have all the information. A lot of people think you can just go online, type in a VIN number, and some database pops up with all the information about a vehicle. The problem is, vehicle records are protected under federal law. No website is allowed to give you complete information about a vehicle because it's legal under statute 18 US Code 2725. The statute prohibits disclosure of information about motor vehicles unless you are an authorized recipient.

Now, you probably are an authorized recipient. The way you have to prove that is you have to go in person so they know who you are. You have to show your ID, sign a form that says the use is permissible. Permissible use means you can't use it for fraud, stalking, or identity theft. Here's an example form from Illinois, an information request form you'll need to sign in the presence of a DMV employee. You'll have to pay a fee of five bucks, and you'll get a vehicle history printout. This includes liens, owner information, everything you need, except for stolen status.

The DMV or in this case, Secretary of State, may not have information on stolen vehicles. You might think, "How does the DMV not know if it's stolen?" Stolen car records are kept under a federal law enforcement record system called the NCIC (National Crime Information Center). The NCIC is only accessed by law enforcement. Sometimes the DMV accesses it occasionally to update their records, but it's not as current as if the police department runs it.

To check if a vehicle is stolen, go to your local police department in person. They'll do a VIN inspection. Normally, you don't need to bring the vehicle, but you must bring your ID and VIN number. They don't do it over the phone to ensure they know who is asking about the vehicle.

The police won't have information about liens, salvage, or ownership, only stolen status. Finally, check the NMVTIS (National Motor Vehicle Title Information System). This federal system tracks salvage vehicles, export-only vehicles, junk vehicles, and parts-only vehicles. Many cars at auctions like Copart or IAA might look fine but have flags due to liability concerns. Check NMVTIS to avoid surprises.

If you don't check all three sources, you risk buying a vehicle with missing critical information. It's inconvenient and not as easy as online searches, but these records are protected under federal law. You have to go in person. That extra effort could save you thousands of dollars by preventing a purchase of a vehicle you can't title.

If you have more questions, click the link below for assistance. We offer live one-on-one consultations with experts who can provide personalized advice on vehicle history and related legal matters. Thank you for watching.