What is a VIN Verification For Vermont Title Loophole?

The Vermont DMV requires a VIN verification for most vehicles that apply for a title using the Vermont title loophole. The temporary suspension of the VIN verification requirement during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic has recently been removed, and now more and more vehicle titling applicants are being held to this requirement. If you are looking to title a car using the Vermont title loophole, it can really save you time when you understand what is required for a successful VIN verification.

What is a vehicle identification number (VIN)?

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is the specific 17-character code that identifies a car. Every car has its own VIN; no two cars are exactly alike. The VIN is assigned to the vehicle when it’s manufactured, and it’s typically stamped on a metal tag and is often located on the driver’s side of the dash, the door jamb, or under the hood. However, some vehicles manufactured before 1981 have a shorter 11-character VIN. This change in regulation grandfathered in certain vehicles and allows for those vehicles to still be titled.

What is a Vermont VIN Verification? Why is it required?

VIN verification is a very important process that verifies that the VIN listed on a vehicle title is the same VIN listed on the physical vehicle. The Vermont VIN verification process is completed using the form Verification of VIN/HIN (VT-010). Many states have adopted a VIN verification policy when titling vehicles and this process is taken very seriously. The reason Vermont requires a VIN verification for the Vermont title loophole is that the vehicle is not required to physically be in Vermont. This means if the VIN wasn’t verified, the applicant can put any VIN on the official application and get a title for any vehicle. The reason for this policy is to protect applicants and the DMV from fraudulent titles.

Is a VIN check the same as a VIN verification?

No, a VIN check and VIN verification are two separate activities. A VIN verification is an official process that involves a government official or representative inspecting the VIN of your vehicle for accuracy. If your application requires a VIN verification, this is not something that can be done online. It must be done in person with an authorized state agent.

A VIN check is an informal process that lets you check your vehicle identification number (VIN) against the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) database. You can use a VIN check to find out whether your vehicle has had any title brands on it, such as salvage or junk. A VIN verification is a more involved and formal process in which you contact an agent from the state motor vehicle department.

The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) is a database that contains information about salvage, junk, and other damage-titled vehicles. Vehicles in this database are not eligible for a title because they have received a title brand such as salvage or junk which deems them inoperable. The database is designed to protect consumers by allowing them to check the history of the vehicle they are intending to purchase or have already purchased.

The Vermont VIN verification for out-of-state residents using the Vermont title loophole has always been a requirement. As you are completing your application for the Vermont title loophole in 2022, we recommend including a VIN verification just in case. If you are submitting an application for a Vermont motorcycle title, you must complete a VIN verification. The Vermont VIN verification helps to make sure that the VIN on your title matches the VIN on your vehicle. Performing this step can save you significant time and help you get your Vermont title faster.