THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO REG 31
Get VIN Verification Resource
1 Top Reasons You Need Verification
Understanding the circumstances where a VIN inspection is mandatory.
Non-Resident Vehicles (Out-of-State)
If your vehicle was last registered in a state other than California, you'll need the **VIN verified** before the DMV will issue license plates.
Required Document Check:
You typically need to provide an **out of state registration document or title/MCO** for our record-keeping and VIN comparison.
**Exclusion:** We cannot verify Salvaged Vehicles.
Unavailable Records (Previously CA Registered)
If your vehicle was last registered or titled in CA but is no longer in the DMV database, you’ll need **at least one** of the following:
- Certificate of Title
- A previous Registration Card
- Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO)
IMPORTANT
If you do not have one of these, you must go to DMV first to see what your options are. They may issue authorization on an RDF (Incomplete Application) using reason code #5 which allows a licensed vehicle verifier to verify your vehicle.
Brand New / Miscellaneous Originals
For a **brand-new vehicle** from an out-of-state dealer (never titled or registered), you usually need to show the **Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO or MSO) or a Dealer Registration.**
- Emissions Label and Odometer Verification.
- Vin corrections of California issued Title.
2 Required Labels & Locations
Ensure your vehicle meets DMV's VIN label requirements before we arrive.
Vehicles 1970 & Newer
The **Federal Certification Label** (Safety/VIN Label) is **required**. (Except for OHVs).
Must be on the **driver-side door or door jamb** and be legible. Removal prevents verification.
Vehicle must also have **at least one additional visible VIN** (e.g., dashboard).
Vehicles 1969 & Older
**Not required** to have a Federal Certification Label.
Must have **at least one visible VIN location** (e.g., stamped on the frame or a metal plate).
Motorcycles and Trailers have different label locations—typically on the **frame or near the handlebars** (motorcycles).
3 Physical Inspection Checklist
What the verifier physically inspects and records on the REG 31 form.
1. Primary VIN Location
The Verifier must physically inspect the VIN permanently affixed to the vehicle.
- [1970 & Newer]: Typically visible through the windshield on the **dashboard**.
- [Classic, Trailers, Moto]: Stamped on the **frame** or metal plate.
2. Federal Certification & Emissions Control Labels
The Federal Certification Label is also called the Safety/Vin Label.
Vehicles That Should have an Emissions Control Label:
- **Cars/Trucks:** 1968 & newer (typically under the hood)
- **Motorcycles:** 1978 & newer (often on the frame)
- **Heavy-Duty Vehicles:** 1979 and newer (engine compartment or on drivers door).
- **OHV'S:** 2003 & newer (on the frame somewhere).
IMPORTANT
A missing Federal Certification Label on vehicles 1970 and newer is an automatic CHP only transaction! If your vehicle is missing this label from the drivers side door or jamb (Cars/Trucks) or Frame (motorcycles) or Body (Trailers) - You must go to the DMV to start the process.
3. Additional Observations
Verifiers record all necessary physical details onto the REG 31 form:
- Body Type Model & Odometer Reading
- Number of Axles, Wheels, and Vehicle Dimensions
- Estimated Weight and **GVWR** (Required for Pickups)
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