Where is my VIN?
You need the full 17 characters to run a decode. Here are the eight places to look, roughly in order of ease.
| Location | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Lower windshield (driver side) | Visible through the glass at the base of the dashboard. The most common spot on modern cars. |
| 2. Driver door jamb sticker | Open the driver door: a sticker on the B-pillar lists the VIN, tire pressures and manufacturing date. |
| 3. Registration & title | Every US registration card and certificate of title prints the VIN. |
| 4. Insurance documents | Your policy declarations and insurance card list the VIN. |
| 5. Engine bay stamp | Stamped into the firewall, strut tower or engine block on many Japanese and European cars. |
| 6. Frame rail (trucks & SUVs) | Look on the driver-side frame near the front bumper or under the cab on trucks. |
| 7. Trunk / spare tire well | A sticker or stamped plate in the spare wheel well or trunk floor on some sedans. |
| 8. Owner manual & service book | Dealers often write the VIN on the first page at delivery. |
Motorcycles
On bikes the VIN is usually stamped on the steering head (right side), the frame neck, or a plate on the frame. Engine numbers are separate and are not the VIN.
If the numbers don't match
The windshield VIN, door jamb VIN and title VIN must all match. If they don't, stop and investigate before buying — mismatched stamps are a classic sign of a cloned or re-stamped vehicle.
Found it? Decode your VIN free.
Telemetry Manual
FAQ
01Can I find my VIN online without the car?
Yes — your registration, title, insurance card and many manufacturer owner portals show it by license plate or account.
02Is the engine number the same as the VIN?
No. The VIN is on the frame; engine numbers identify the engine only and can legally differ after a replacement engine.