A VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number, is a unique 17-character code used to identify your car. It is different from your registration or number plate.
You’ll need to provide your VIN or registration number when selling your car.
If your car is older than 1989, you’ll have a serial number or a chassis/frame number instead.
Where can I find my car’s VIN?
You can usually find the VIN:
At the bottom of the windscreen
Inside a door jamb
Under the bonnet, such as on the build plate or engine firewall
On your registration or insurance documents
The exact location can vary between cars.
How do I check that my VIN is correct?
A VIN:
Is exactly 17 characters long
Can contain numbers and uppercase letters
Never contains the letters I, O or Q
If you see an I, O or Q, check that it hasn’t been confused with another letter or number.
For more information, read our guide to finding your car’s VIN.
Any information on this page is provided as a guide only. It is not professional or expert advice and is not a substitute for such advice. The content may not be appropriate, correct or sufficient for your circumstances and should not be relied on as the only reason you do or don’t do anything.