How to Complete a VIN Inspection in Connecticut
A Connecticut VIN verification is generally required if you would like to register your vehicle in the state after moving from a different one. Moreover, you will need to undergo this procedure after purchasing a vehicle from outside of CT, even if you are already a state resident. In any case, an approved inspector must verify the VIN number of your car in order to ensure that it is not currently reported as stolen or wanted. As such, inspectors verify both public and discreet vehicle identification numbers (VINs) as part of this procedure.
While a vehicle verification is typically performed along with an emissions test, not all cars are required to undergo that process. In such instances, these vehicles will be required to obtain a VIN inspection that is separate from an emissions test. After the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) inspects your car, you will receive a completed DMV VIN verification form, which will be needed for you to register your vehicle for the first time in the state.
When is a Connecticut VIN verification required?
A car verification must be completed at stations that are approved by the Connecticut DMV. As a general rule, this procedure is conducted in order to ensure that your vehicle is not currently wanted or listed as stolen. Furthermore, it is important to note that a vehicle VIN verification will be required even if your car is exempt from emissions testing. Failing to do so can lead to serious consequences, as you will be unable to register your vehicle in the state, thus making it illegal for you to operate the car on public roads.
A VIN number validation is most commonly required when a car owner moves to Connecticut. However, this procedure is also required if you purchase a vehicle outside of the state. On the other hand, you may qualify for an exemption if you purchase a brand-new car from a dealership or manufacturer, and have never registered the vehicle in another state. If this is the case, you will need to provide proof of the status of the car when registering it in Connecticut for the first time.
Where can I go to obtain a VIN inspection in Connecticut?
If your car needs to undergo a VIN verification after you have transferred it to Connecticut from a different state, it is important to identify which locations will provide this service. Overall, most emissions testing centers throughout CT can perform this type of inspection. However, there are also several other facilities that can perform a VIN inspection on your vehicle, such as the state’s various Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices.
While most car inspection stations do not require an appointment, some of them do. As such, it is important for you to contact your preferred facility ahead of time and inquire whether or not you need to make an appointment before bringing your vehicle in for inspection. In some cases, a state car inspection can only be performed at the CT DMV. For instance, this requirement occurs if a VIN cannot be successfully verified at another station.
In such circumstances, you will be provided with documentation that must be submitted in person at a Connecticut DMV office while you undergo additional inspection. Furthermore, a vehicle inspection must be performed at a DMV branch if you own one of the following types of vehicles:
- Cars that have altered, undetectable or missing VINs.
- Composite motor vehicles or trailers, including homemade vehicles, trailers, dune buggies or kit cars.
- Salvage vehicles.
- Grey market vehicles, otherwise known as cars that are imported from other countries.
- Amphibious vehicles.
- Former military vehicles.
- Motorcycles with a model year of 1980 or older.
- Three-wheeled vehicles, except for Harley Davidson and Can Am (Spyder) brands.
- Vehicles that are not listed on Connecticut’s approved list of manufacturers.
- Any dirt bike or motorcycle that resembles a dirt bike.
What to Bring to a VIN Number Verification in Connecticut
When preparing for a VIN verification in Connecticut, it is important for you to make sure that you bring the appropriate documentation that will be required during this procedure. Overall, the most important document that you will need to provide to an inspection station is proof of ownership.
As such, a VIN inspection cannot be performed if you are not able to provide proof of ownership for your vehicle. Acceptable proof of ownership documents include:
- A vehicle’s title that is listed in your name.
- A bill of sale for the vehicle that has been properly assigned to you.
- An H-115 Form for homemade vehicles.
- Documentation that reflects your vehicle’s purchase from a dealership or manufacturer.
You will also be asked to provide identification with a photo ID, such as a state driver’s license or identification card. Then, you will be required to pay for the applicable inspection fees.
What to Do After Completing a VIN Inspection in Connecticut
A completed Connecticut vehicle inspection form will be provided to you once your car has successfully passed the inspection procedure. This completed document will be required when you apply for a vehicle registration in CT, so it is very important for you to obtain it in a timely manner. Furthermore, it is strongly recommended that you retain a copy of this completed form in the event that you are ever requested to have a VIN inspection performed on your vehicle again.