Express Auto Registration • San Diego, California
6189 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92115
California Vehicle Verification Assistance

VIN Verification Services in San Diego, CA

Need a vehicle identification number verification for a California registration transaction? Express Auto Registration can help with VIN verification requirements and the REG 31 vehicle verification process.

California DMV Vehicle VIN Verification Help

California DMV may require a physical inspection of a vehicle before completing certain vehicle registration applications. The inspection confirms identifying and descriptive information about the vehicle.

Out-of-State Vehicles

A vehicle last registered outside California generally requires a vehicle verification when it is being registered in California, subject to DMV exceptions.

Vehicles Without a DMV Record

A verification may be required when California DMV does not have an existing vehicle record, subject to applicable exceptions.

VIN or Vehicle Record Differences

DMV may require verification when the VIN shown on vehicle documents differs from the VIN shown on the DMV record.

Other Registration Situations

Vehicle verification can also be required for certain specially constructed vehicles, revived junk or salvage situations, engine changes, or other transactions. Some of these vehicles have special verification restrictions.

Important: Not every vehicle can be verified by every type of verifier. California DMV places restrictions on licensed vehicle verifiers for certain vehicles, including some revived salvage, revived junk, specially constructed vehicles, and certain motorcycles.

What to Bring for VIN Verification

Bring the vehicle itself and any available documents connected with the registration transaction. Depending on your situation, useful documents may include:

The vehicle must be available for a physical inspection. A VIN verification is not completed from paperwork alone.

REG 31 — Verification of Vehicle

California vehicle verification is generally documented on the Verification of Vehicle (REG 31) unless DMV requires a different form for a specific situation.

REG 31 — Verification of Vehicle

Do not complete the verifier portion yourself. REG 31 is completed as part of the physical vehicle verification by an authorized verifier. Use the buttons below to view or download the form already available on our website.

VIN Verification FAQs

What is a VIN verification?

It is a physical inspection used to verify identifying and descriptive information about a vehicle for applicable California registration transactions.

Is VIN verification required for an out-of-state vehicle?

California DMV generally requires vehicle verification for a vehicle last registered out of state, although DMV lists specific exceptions for certain vehicles and transactions.

Which form is used for a California VIN verification?

Vehicle verification is generally completed on REG 31, Verification of Vehicle, unless another DMV form is required for the specific transaction.

Can I complete REG 31 myself?

No. The vehicle must be physically inspected and the verification completed by an authorized vehicle verifier or other authorized person as permitted by California DMV.

Can every vehicle be verified by a licensed vehicle verifier?

No. California DMV restricts licensed vehicle verifiers from performing certain inspections, including some revived salvage, revived junk, specially constructed vehicles, and motorcycles with an unavailable California record.

Schedule VIN Verification Assistance

Express Auto Registration provides vehicle registration assistance in San Diego. Contact us to discuss your VIN verification and registration transaction.