California VIN verification (REG 31): when you need one

Out-of-state cars, trailers, RVs and vehicles with no California record often need a VIN verification. Here is when it applies and who can do it.

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Last reviewed: September 2026. Registration Leaders is a private business, not the California DMV or any government agency. This guide is general information based on DMV publications; check with the DMV if your situation is unusual.

What a VIN verification is

A California VIN verification is a physical inspection of a vehicle's identification number (VIN) and other details, such as the make, model year, body type, odometer and emission label. The result is recorded on the DMV's Verification of Vehicle form (REG 31).

The DMV uses it to confirm that the vehicle matches its ownership documents before it is registered or titled. The form must be completed in full by an authorized verifier while physically inspecting a complete, assembled vehicle. The vehicle owner cannot fill it out.

When you need one

Vehicles last registered in another state or country. The DMV lists a REG 31 as a requirement to register a nonresident vehicle in California.
Vehicles or trailers with no California record. For example, a vehicle with a title or manufacturer's certificate of origin that has never been registered here.
Salvage and revived salvage vehicles. These need a vehicle inspection before they can be registered again, but only the DMV or the CHP can do it (see below).
VIN or record problems. A VIN on the vehicle that does not match the paperwork, or a damaged or missing VIN label, usually needs an inspection. Some of these cases must be referred to the CHP.

Not sure? The DMV or your registration service can tell you from the plate number or VIN whether an inspection is required.

Who can do a VIN verification

According to the REG 31 form, a verification is acceptable to the DMV when it is completed by one of these:

An authorized DMV employee
A peace officer who is trained to do vehicle verifications, including the California Highway Patrol (CHP)
An authorized auto club employee
A California licensed vehicle verifier

What licensed verifiers can and cannot inspect

The REG 31 says licensed vehicle verifiers may inspect nonresident vehicles, and vehicles or trailers (except used motorcycles) that have supporting ownership documents but no California record, as long as the VIN appears okay.

Licensed verifiers may not inspect revived salvage or revived junk vehicles, specially constructed vehicles, vehicles with documents from a foreign country, vehicles whose federal safety label is missing, damaged or does not match the VIN, some used motorcycles, and motorcycles with engine changes. Those go to the DMV or CHP.

RVs, motorhomes and trailers

The REG 31 covers motorhomes, travel and fifth-wheel trailers, camp trailers and utility trailers as well as cars and trucks. The verifier records details such as the length and width of coaches and motorhomes.

For trailers coming from out of state (other than trailer coaches and park trailers), the DMV also lists a Statement of Facts (REG 256) with the estimated weight, and a Permanent Trailer Identification application (REG 4017). Large RVs and trailers are often easiest to verify where they are parked, which is where a mobile verification helps.

How to get one: step by step

Confirm you need it and whether a licensed verifier is allowed to do it, or whether it must go to the DMV or CHP.
Gather your documents: the title, registration card or manufacturer's certificate of origin for the vehicle.
Make sure the vehicle is complete and accessible. The verifier needs to see the VIN plate, the federal certification label on the door area, the odometer and the emission label.
Have the inspection done at a DMV office, by an auto club, by a peace officer, or by a licensed verifier at your location.
Submit the REG 31 with your registration paperwork. Any missing sections, cross-outs or erasures void the form, so do not write on it yourself.

What to bring (or have ready)

The vehicle itself, complete and assembled
The ownership document: title, registration card or manufacturer's certificate of origin
Your driver's license or ID
For trailers: an estimate of the trailer's weight
Any letters or forms the DMV has sent you about the vehicle

Official sources

Official source: California DMV, Verification of Vehicle (REG 31) form and instructions
Official source: California DMV, How To Register a Vehicle From Out of State (HTVR 9)
Official source: California DMV, Register Your Revived Junk or Salvage Vehicle

Want us to handle it?

Registration Leaders is a private business, not the DMV. We do VIN verifications at our Citrus Heights office, or mobile at your home, work, dealership lot or community in our service area, for cars, trucks and RVs. Our service fee is $60 + DMV fees (auto) or $80 + DMV fees (commercial). Mobile service is extra; the cost depends on distance and time of service, and we quote before we go. DMV fees vary by vehicle and are paid in addition to our service fee. See VIN verification service and all prices, or book an appointment.

Frequently asked questions

When do I need a VIN verification in California?

Most often when you register a vehicle that was last registered in another state or country. It is also needed for some vehicles or trailers with no California record, for salvage vehicles, and when the VIN does not match the paperwork.

Who can do a VIN verification in California?

The REG 31 form lists authorized DMV employees, trained peace officers including the CHP, authorized auto club employees, and California licensed vehicle verifiers.

Can a private verifier inspect a revived salvage vehicle?

No. The REG 31 form says licensed vehicle verifiers may not inspect revived salvage or revived junk vehicles. Those inspections are done by the DMV or the CHP.

Can a VIN verification be done at my home?

Yes, a licensed vehicle verifier can inspect the vehicle where it is parked, as long as the vehicle is complete and the verifier can see the VIN, labels and odometer. This is often the easiest option for RVs and trailers.