This part specifies the format, content and physical requirements for a vehicle identification number (VIN) system and its installation to simplify vehicle identification information retrieval and to increase the accuracy and efficiency of vehicle recall campaigns.Checked 2026-08-11
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The 17-character code the manufacturer assigns to one specific vehicle.
Also called: VIN · chassis number
What it means
Definition
A VIN is a 17-character code of digits and capital letters assigned by the manufacturer to one specific vehicle. Federal regulation sets its format and content: a section identifying the manufacturer and vehicle type, a descriptive section, a check digit that catches transcription errors, and a final section covering model year, plant and sequential production number. The regulation states its purpose as simplifying retrieval of vehicle identification information and increasing the accuracy and efficiency of recall campaigns.
Why a buyer cares
What it changes
Because the number belongs to one car rather than to a model, it is what recall, title and history lookups are keyed on.
In practice
Where you meet it
Through the windshield at the driver's corner of the dashboard, on the driver's door jamb label, and printed on the title, registration and insurance card.
Two things that look alike
Not the same as
A licence plate number is issued by the state, tied to registration, and changes; the VIN stays with the vehicle.
Read next
Related terms
Open recall check (by VIN)
Entering a car's 17-character VIN in a recall tool to see whether a recall remedy is still outstanding on that exact vehicle.
Vehicle history report
A lookup of the title, odometer and salvage records reported against one VIN.
Monroney window sticker
The label federal law requires on a new car's window, listing suggested price, optional equipment and fuel economy.
Where this comes from
Sources
The breakdown of which characters carry which meaning comes from 49 CFR 565.15; cite that section too if the definition keeps that detail.