01
Driver-Side Dashboard
Look through the windshield at the lower corner of the dashboard on the driver side. The VIN is commonly visible from outside the vehicle.
Vehicle Information Guide
Vehicle Coverage & VIN Guide
Learn how to locate your Vehicle Identification Number, prepare it for a report request, and understand what vehicle history information may be available.
Check Your VIN →Understanding VINs
What Is a Vehicle Identification Number?
A Vehicle Identification Number, commonly known as a VIN, is a unique identifier assigned to a vehicle by its manufacturer. It helps distinguish one vehicle from another.
Most modern vehicles use a standardized 17-character VIN. Older vehicles may use different identification formats, so always refer to the number displayed on the vehicle and its official documents.
Standard Modern VIN
17
Characters
Standard 17-character VINs do not use the letters I, O, or Q. These characters are excluded to help avoid confusion with numbers.
Find Your VIN
Where Can You Find Your VIN?
The VIN is commonly displayed in several places on the vehicle and in its documents. Locations may vary by make and model.
02
Driver-Side Door Area
Check the label or plate around the driver-side door jamb or door post. The exact position can vary by vehicle.
03
Vehicle Documents
You can also check the vehicle registration, ownership or title documents, and insurance paperwork.
Before You Submit
Check Your VIN Before Ordering
A small typing mistake can result in an incorrect vehicle identification number. Take a moment to verify it first.
Locate the VIN
Start with the VIN displayed on the vehicle, such as the driver-side dashboard or door label.
Compare the Details
Compare the VIN on the vehicle with the number shown on its registration or ownership documents.
Check Each Character
Enter the characters in the correct order. Do not guess a missing character or add zeros to complete a VIN.
Submit Your VIN
Once you have checked the number, continue to the GeneVin order process to request a vehicle history report.
Understanding Report Coverage
What Does Vehicle Coverage Mean?
A vehicle history report brings together information that may be available for a particular vehicle. The amount of available information can differ from one VIN to another.
Coverage Varies by VIN
Available information depends on the individual vehicle and the records provided by underlying data sources.
Records May Be Limited
Some events may not appear in available records. The absence of a record does not prove that an event never occurred.
Use Independent Checks
A report is an informational resource, not a replacement for a vehicle inspection or review of service documents.
Explore Report Information
Learn about the different categories that may appear in a GeneVin report and see an example of the report format.
Ready to Check a Vehicle?
Enter your VIN to start your GeneVin vehicle history report request.