How to Locate the Owner of an Auto by Vehicle Identification Number

A vehicle identification number (VIN) is an identifying code unique to each specific motor vehicle. The 17-digit alphanumeric code, assigned during manufacture, provides precise information on the type and features of the car and the place of its assembly. VIN numbers are federally regulated in the United States. Motor vehicle records use VINs to track accidents, recalls, warranty claims, insurance coverage, service records, safety inspections and registrations. In case of an accident, court action, insurance fraud, or interest in a purchase, the VIN can aid in finding the owner of an automobile.

Instructions

1




Look for the VIN inside the driver's door, or etched on the dashboard near the windshield on the driver's side of the vehicle.

Locate the VIN for the vehicle in question. Find the VIN by standing outside the vehicle and looking at the dashboard of the driver's side of the car near the windshield. Additional places to find the VIN are inside the driver's door and on the firewall, a metal panel between the engine and the passenger compartment. The VIN is also listed in the original owner's manual, on the vehicle's title and on its registration card.

2

Enter the VIN at the Iinfosearch - Reverse VIN Number Search website (see Resources) if the name of the vehicle owner is not available. Input the VIN number exactly as it appears.

3

Select the state of the vehicle registration. (If the site does not list the state, then records are unavailable.)

4

Enter the reason for the request. The Drivers Privacy Protection Act prevents access to personal motor vehicle records unless a reason is given to find the owner. Select from one of the eight reasons given on the site. The search is performed by a licensed professional investigator.

5

Pay the fee if the information for the state in question is available.