Skip to content Skip to footer

Schedule a VIN Inspection

How to Schedule a VIN Inspection

The Washington State Patrol Vehicle Identification Program is currently suffering from multiple vacancies throughout the state. We understand the delay this has caused and the difficulties in scheduling appointments for inspections. We are working diligently to fill these positions so we can provide the service expected of our customers. We apologize for these delays and ask that you continue to check back weekly for available appointments. At least one week of appointments is made available every Tuesday around 11:00 AM. You must have a scheduling account and be logged in to make an appointment.

We have also been informed that individuals are obtaining multiple appointments and placing these for sale on various social media sites. As a reminder, purchasing an appointment is a violation of our terms and conditions and may result in a cancellation. Individuals identified as selling appointments will have their scheduling account blocked. We have also implemented limitations to the number of appointments that can be scheduled. Customers are now limited to one appointment per week. Multiple appointments made in the same week, without prior authorization from VIN Program staff, may result in cancellation. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

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, homemade vehicles, other vehicles without a proper VIN, or other special cases.

PROCESS:

• Verify that you need an inspection by visiting your official licensing agent, or go to https://www.dol.wa.gov/ for more information.
• Have all the paperwork necessary to complete your inspection including a your WSP Inspection Request Form provided by the licensing agent.
• Identify your closest VIN inspection location and use our online scheduler to make an appointment.
• Arrive at your location on your inspection date with all your completed documents.

WHAT TO BRING:

You will need to bring a completed “Washington State Patrol Inspection Request Form” provided by a 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.

• Additional Information for Oregon Residents/ Dealers

• Abandoned Unauthorized Vehicles Guide

• Junk Vehicle Guide

• Assembled Vehicle Inspection Guide

• Glider Kit Inspection Guide

• Homemade Motor Vehicle Inspection Guide

• Homemade Recreational Vehicle Inspection Guide

• Homemade Trailer Inspection Guide

• Kit Vehicle Inspection Guide

• Homemade Motorcycle, Moped, ORV Inspection Guide

• Rebuilt Salvage Vehicle Inspection Guide

• Street Rod Custom Vehicle Inspection Guide

SCHEDULE A VIN

Info needed for account creation:

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

Select your district and location below:

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. 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 Licensing Locations)


Yes. The licensing agent will be your first stop in getting your vehicle titled. Please visit Licensing for more information.


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/motorcycle/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 you will need a bill-of-sale or copy of title sent to the insurance company and original receipts for all major component parts
• Other documents (please see “What to Bring To Your Inspection” section above and bring what pertains to you).

Receipts for parts must be original and must be made out to the vehicle owner, immediate family member or a licensed body shop that repaired the vehicle. See the rebuilt/salvage vehicle inspection guide under the “What to bring with you section” for detailed receipt information.

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 inspection.  The printed receipt must include the business name, address, phone number, date of purchase, description of part, purchase price, and tax 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

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


We do inspect ORV’s but not to 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.

Contact us

Mailing Address
Washington State Patrol
PO Box 42600
Olympia, WA 98504

Physical Address
Washington State Patrol
Helen Sommers Building
106 11th Avenue SW
Olympia, WA 98501

Wsp accessibility

The Washington State Patrol is firmly committed to providing an environment that provides the public fair and equal treatment and equal access to its benefits, programs and services as required by state and federal laws. If you require reasonable accommodation under the American with Disabilities Act, or would like to file a grievance please click on the following link:  WSP Public Accessibility and Grievance Process

Follow us

© 2025 Washington State Patrol.