How to Complete a VIN Inspection in New Mexico
A VIN inspection in New Mexico is required for many drivers who wish to legally title and register their cars in the state. The main purpose of a VIN verification is for authorized inspectors to verify that the vehicle identification number (VIN) displayed on a car matches the one listed on its official credentials. Thus, it is important for all state car owners to determine whether or not their vehicles need to undergo this important procedure.
In order to verify a VIN number in NM, vehicle owners must be mindful of where these procedures take place, as well as which steps must be taken for this type of inspection to be completed. In any case, all of these vehicle verification procedures must follow the guidelines and requirements established by the state’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). To learn more about this verification process and locate the inspection stations throughout New Mexico, read the sections below.
When is a New Mexico VIN verification required?
A New Mexico VIN verification is required for all vehicles being brought in from another state. Thus, despite the fact that other states have different requirements for this procedure, you must only verify a VIN number in NM if your car was transferred from out of state.
The main purpose of this type of inspection is to reduce the number of stolen vehicles and auto parts entering the state. As such, a car verification is necessary for state motorists to title and register their out-of-state vehicles with the MVD.
Where can I go to obtain a VIN inspection in New Mexico?
The car verification process in New Mexico can only be completed by specific authorized inspectors and locations throughout the state. While other states authorize local law enforcement officers to administer a verification of VIN, NM only allows inspections to be completed by an MVD agent at an MVD office, or through a certified VIN inspector at a partnering office.
On the other hand, motorists must be mindful that not all MVD offices in the state perform inspections. Thus, applicants are encouraged to contact their preferred MVD branch over the phone and verify whether or not that particular establishment offers this type of service.
Besides MVD offices, a vehicle VIN verification can also be performed by certified VIN inspectors at authorized car inspection stations throughout the state. To do so, a driver must simply locate a nearby inspection station and contact them directly. Moreover, some of these establishments may offer the opportunity for appointments to be scheduled. However, certain fees may be charged for private inspectors to administer these verifications.
Furthermore, the Motor Vehicle Division also offers the option for a VIN inspector to come to the motorist and perform a VIN verification outside of an authorized establishment. On the other hand, this type of service is generally only available for vehicles that cannot be brought in to an MVD branch. Instead, an appointment will be scheduled and a VIN inspector will come to where the car is located. Currently, this service is only available in the following cities in New Mexico:
- Albuquerque
- Rio Rancho
- Santa Fe
- Las Cruces
What to Bring to a VIN Number Verification in New Mexico
Since the overall purpose of a VIN number validation in New Mexico is to prove that the VIN displayed on a car matches its official credentials, it is important for all documents related to the vehicle to be brought to the actual inspection. Of course, the actual vehicle being inspected must be brought to the new vehicle inspection. However, motorists also need to bring supplementary paperwork, such as a driver’s license to identify themselves.
Additional documentation may be necessary for certain situations, so it is important for car owners to contact an MVD representative in advance with any questions or concerns. For example, if the VIN is not clearly visible on the vehicle, applicants will need to supply other documentation and undergo additional procedures in order to complete a VIN inspection.
A completed New Mexico VIN form will be provided to motorists who pass an official inspection. This MVD VIN verification form is the most important document a motorist will have to prove to the Motor Vehicle Division that an inspection has been successfully completed. Then, drivers will be able to move forward with titling and registering their vehicles.
The types of information that will be necessary for the completion of this form include:
- Year, make, model and body type of the vehicle.
- Vehicle identification number (VIN).
- Odometer reading.
- Name and address of the car owner.
- If the VIN has been tampered with, changed or is missing.
- Details about the authorized inspector.
What to Do After Completing a VIN Inspection in New Mexico
After the completion of a VIN inspection in New Mexico, drivers will be required to submit the signed form to a local MVD branch. The verification of VIN form will stay on the division’s records for the vehicle until the credential is no longer necessary. Once the motorist verifies that his or her car has passed the inspection, he or she will be able to begin the title and registration procedures through the MVD.