You can use a VIN in North Carolina to order vehicle records from the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The state is required by the Federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act to reserve access to personal information on DMV records only to qualified individuals or organizations. Limited VIN code lookup services may be ordered through the NC DMV either online, by mail or in person at a DMV office.

To receive VIN history and registration information, you must complete the necessary forms and provide the appropriate payment. The sections below outline the different methods for checking VIN numbers and the types of information available for each method.

How to Conduct a North Carolina VIN Number Lookup Online

The most efficient way to order a comprehensive VIN history report on your vehicle is online. This service provides a full history of your car including insurance claims, manufacturer notices and origin information, theft reports and full title and registration history. Where other methods require separate forms and fees for each type of search, DMV.com’s online search gathers history information from many resources and presents it in one, all-inclusive report.

Alternatively, you may order an NC vehicle history report from the Department of Justice’s National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) website. This service will provide vehicle title history, odometer data and limited vehicle damage information. Additional vehicle information can be found using the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s online service. This service may provide vehicle damage information.

How to Request a North Carolina VIN Code Lookup in Person

To order a VIN number check through an NC DMV office, you will need to complete the appropriate forms, bring the required payment and visit your local branch. Provide your license number, VIN number, full name of the person to whom the vehicle is registered, the insurance company name and policy number.

How to Request a North Carolina VIN Lookup by Mail

Requesting a VIN lookup title history report by mail also requires completion of an application form. The applicant is required to provide the following information in order to complete the form:

• Official NC driver’s license number
• VIN number
• Full name of the person to whom the vehicle is registered
• Insurance company name
• Insurance policy number
• Include the appropriate fee

What info is in a North Carolina VIN history report?

When you obtain a VIN report through the DMV office, you will receive title history and previous owner information. The report from the state may also include some information on inspections, odometer readings, whether the vehicle was involved in theft or if damage was reported to an insurance agency. However, if you desire a full North Carolina VIN history report, it is a good idea to check additional resources for a full damage, accident, manufacturer and theft history.

A comprehensive VIN number report includes the following information:

• Original vehicle specification and factory equipment
• Whole car and salvage auction history
• All DMV title information
• Odometer records
• Insurance total loss reports
• Safety recalls from government and manufacturer sources
• Lien information
• Lemon and brand information

Why would I need to perform a VIN number check in North Carolina?

A VIN lookup report is helpful in preventing registration blocks, especially if you have recently purchased a used vehicle. State law prohibits the DMV from issuing a vehicle registration if there are problems with title history, liens, insurance or inspections. Knowing the full history of your vehicle before applying for registration can prevent unnecessary hassle and save you time.

A VIN number check can reveal problems with the car and is a must in situations where you are considering purchasing a previously owned vehicle. Using a comprehensive VIN lookup service, like the one provided by DMV.com, can alert you to problems with the model, if the vehicle was subject to flood damage, if there are any outstanding liens on the vehicle or even to if the vehicle is stolen.

How do I locate my vehicle’s VIN number?

VIN numbers are most commonly known to be located on the dashboard next to the windshield. What is not as commonly known is that the VIN for your vehicle is located in several different places in your car. The purpose of multiple locations is for theft prevention. Below is a list of some of the locations where you can find your VIN number:

• The car’s firewall
• Support bracket for the radiator
• Steering column
• On the vehicle guarantee or maintenance manual
• Machined on a plate on the engine
• Inside the driver’s door
• Left instrumentation panel

You can initiate a quick self-check of your vehicle by checking VIN numbers to be sure that they match in the various places where you find the sequence on your car. Always run a VIN history report before buying a used car, whether you are purchasing from a dealer you trust or a private individual. Knowing your vehicle’s history can save you from future hassles and expenses.

Vehicle History Report Fees in North Carolina

The price for a certified vehicle report is $13. If you just want vehicle information, the fee is $1.