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Schedule a VIN Inspection

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English Version of the VIN Inspection Process

 

Spanish Version of the VIN Inspection Process

Russian Version of the VIN Inspection Process

Ukrainian Version of the VIN Inspection Process

How to Schedule a VIN Inspection

YOU MUST HAVE A WASHINGTON STATE PATROL INSPECTION REQUEST FORM ISSUED TO YOU BY A DOL AGENT BEFORE YOU SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT.

You must have a scheduling account and be logged in to make an appointment. The scheduling calendars work on a rolling schedule. All VIN calendars are scheduled two (2) weeks out into the future. One week of appointments are made available every Tuesday around 11:00 AM.

Customers are limited to one appointment per week. Multiple appointments made in the same week, without prior authorization from VIN Program staff, may result in cancellation.

INTERNET RECEIPTS FOR USED PARTS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.  ALL INTERNET PURCHASES FOR MAJOR COMPONENT PARTS MUST BE NEW AND HAVE A VALID RECEIPT.

If you have a compliment, comment or complaint, please email the VIN Program Manager at VINFeedback@wsp.wa.gov.

VIN Inspections

The Washington State Patrol performs physical inspections on vehicles that have been rebuilt after being destroyed or declared a total loss by an insurance company. We also will perform physical inspections as required on vehicles reported stolen, are homemade, vehicles without a proper VIN, and other special cases.

STEPS TO A SUCCESSFUL VIN APPOINTMENT:

  1. Verify that you need an inspection by visiting your official licensing agent in person.
  2. Review one of the YouTube videos above.
  3. Have all the ORIGINAL paperwork necessary to complete your inspection including a your WSP Inspection Request Form provided by the DOL licensing agent. (Paperwork information is provided below in the What to Bring section.
  4. Identify all VIN inspection locations you are willing to travel to and use our online scheduler to make an appointment.
  5. On your inspection date, arrive at your scheduled location, AT YOUR START TIME, with your vehicle and all completed documents in original form.

WHAT TO BRING:

You will need to bring a completed “Washington State Patrol Inspection Request Form” provided by a DOL licensing agent as well as other documents depending on the type of inspection. Please review the following that apply to your vehicle before you schedule an appointment.

CREATE AN ACCOUNT AND SCHEDULE A VIN INSPECTION

Information needed for your account creation:

    • Email
    • Password
    • Full Name
    • Phone Number
    • Company Name (If applicable)

INTERNET RECEIPTS FOR USED PARTS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. ALL INTERNET PURCHASES FOR MAJOR COMPONENT PARTS MUST BE NEW AND HAVE A VALID RECEIPT.

FAQs


“VIN” (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique universal serial number issued to every vehicle by the manufacturer. Within the 17-digit number are codes that indicate the vehicle’s make and model, the factory where the vehicle was manufactured, a serial number and information about optional equipment.


The WSP inspects vehicles at the request of the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) in an effort to deter auto theft and the trafficking of stolen parts (RCW 46.12.560).


A licensing agent will let you know if you need an inspection at the time you apply for a title. If the licensing agent determines you need an inspection, they will complete the Washington State Patrol Inspection Request form for you. The form has instructions on the top that explains where you schedule your appointment. You may also receive a letter from DOL directing you to an inspection if there is a problem with your vehicle’s VIN.

A licensing agent is your county auditor or official subagent in business to provide vehicle titles and other services. (See Vehicle Licensing Locations)


Yes. The licensing agent will be your first stop in getting your vehicle titled. (See Vehicle Licensing Locations)


No.  Inspections are by appointment only.


Unless you transport the vehicle on a licensed trailer, you will need to purchase a transit permit before you can legally drive your vehicle to the inspection. (See Transit Permits).

You will need to present the following at the time of your inspection:

  • The vehicle or trailer that you need inspected.
  • A completed Washington State Patrol Inspection Request Form provided by the licensing agent
  • If you are rebuilding a salvage vehicle, please review the Rebuilt Vehicle Inspection Guide to ensure your vehicle and paperwork will pass inspection.
  • Other documents – Visit the “What to Bring” section above and bring what pertains to you.

Parts purchased from a licensed business via the Internet or electronically will only be accepted for new aftermarket components. You must print out a copy of the receipt to present to the VIN Officer at the time of the inspection. The printed receipt must include the business name, address, phone number, date of purchase, description of the part, purchase price and the taxes paid. Internet bid receipts, (eBay, etc.), will not be accepted. 


No. A rebuilt salvaged vehicle must have all damaged major component parts replaced or repaired to meet requirements before inspection. The WSP will only inspect complete vehicles per RCW 46.12.560. Major component parts include at least each of the following RCW 46.80.010:

• Engines and short block
• Transmission and/or transfer case
• Doors
• Front or rear clip
• Truck bed or box
• Hood
• Fenders
• Frame
• Cab
• Front or rear differential
• Quarter panels
• Seats
• Bumpers
• Airbags
• Catalytic Converter

 Note: If the vehicle was originally manufactured with airbags, all airbags must be replaced prior to the inspection.


Please – Visit the “What to Bring” section above.


We do inspect ORV’s but do not certify them for use on the road. This is a service your local mechanic or dealership can provide.


Please call your local VIN Office, if you are a licensed dealer and need multiple inspections.


No. Only non-resident students and non-resident active duty military personnel may have their vehicle inspected for VIN verification. Military personnel must provide a leave and earnings statement showing residence of record. Students must provide a letter from their college stating the student is paying out-of-state tuition or proof of enrollment. (See WAC 308-99-040)


No. You don’t need to schedule an inspection. Any commissioned police officer can check to see if a car is recorded as stolen. Please visit your local police department or county sheriff’s office.

No. If you were already the registered owner at the time the vehicle was damaged and deemed “totaled” by your insurance, you do NOT need an inspection. Please go to a licensing agent in person and let them know you are “Owner Retained.” They will help you with the new titling of your vehicle.

(See Department of Licensing)