Where can I find my VIN or Chassis Number?

Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or chassis number is a unique code used to identify your vehicle. In the UK, it’s required for registration, insurance, and vehicle history checks, and is recorded by the DVLA and insurers.

You can find your VIN number both on your vehicle and on official documents such as your V5C logbook.

Where to Find Your VIN on Your Vehicle

1. Dashboard (Driver’s Side)

• Look at the bottom corner of the dashboard
• Visible through the windscreen
• Standard on UK right-hand drive vehicles

2. Driver’s Door Frame (Door Jamb)

• Found on a sticker or metal plate
• Located on the driver’s door pillar or frame

3. Engine Bay or Chassis

• Stamped directly into the chassis
• Often located near the suspension tower, firewall or bulkhead, or under plastic trim panels.

Tip: On some vehicles, the VIN may be hidden under trim in the door opening or floor panel.

Where to Find Your VIN on Documents

The VIN is always listed on official paperwork, including:

• V5C registration certificate (logbook)
• Insurance documents
• Finance or lease agreements
• Service or MOT records

The V5C logbook is the most reliable place to check your VIN.

VIN vs Chassis Number - What's the Difference?

In the UK, the terms VIN and chassis number are often used interchangeably.

• On modern vehicles, the chassis number forms part of the VIN
• It usually refers to the last 6 or 7 characters
• Both identify the same vehicle

To learn more about what a VIN or chassis number is and how it’s used, see our guide on what is a VIN or chassis number.

What If the VIN Is Missing or Doesn’t Match?

If the VIN:

• Is damaged or missing
• Doesn’t match the V5C
• Appears altered

This may indicate:

• Past accident damage
• Vehicle identity issues
• Imported, rebuilt, or cloned vehicles

In some cases, the DVLA may need to assess the vehicle’s identity before it can be registered or sold.

Run a Vehicle History Check

Once you’ve located your VIN or chassis number, you can run a MotorCheck UK vehicle history check to uncover the vehicle’s background and identify potential risks before buying or selling.

MotorCheck reports are run using the vehicle registration number (VRM), which retrieves verified records linked to the vehicle’s VIN behind the scenes, giving you a clear and accurate view of its history.