Key takeaways
- A VIN is 17 characters and never contains the letters I, O, or Q.
- You can check a VIN in about a minute — the free preview confirms the car identity before you pay.
- A history report checks title brands, theft, liens, and odometer across all 50 states, not just the one on the title.
Step by step
- 1
Find the VIN
Look at the lower-left corner of the windshield, the driver-side door jamb sticker, and the title or registration. All three should match.
- 2
Confirm it is valid
A real VIN is exactly 17 characters and uses no I, O, or Q. If it is shorter, it is likely a pre-1981 vehicle with a different format.
- 3
Enter the VIN for a free preview
Type the VIN (or a U.S. license plate and state) into the search box to confirm the year, make, and model at no cost.
- 4
Unlock the full history report
Review title brands, theft records, liens, and odometer readings sourced from NMVTIS, NICB, and state DMVs.
- 5
Compare against the paperwork
If the report shows a brand or odometer problem the seller did not disclose, you have your answer before spending a dollar more.
Check the VIN before you buy
Title brands, theft records, liens, and odometer history in under a minute.
Check a VIN nowFrequently asked questions
Is a VIN check free?
The identity preview — year, make, model, and VIN validation — is free. The full history report (title brands, theft, liens, odometer) is a paid unlock.
What if the VIN is not 17 characters?
Vehicles built before 1981 used shorter, non-standard VINs. Modern U.S. vehicles are always 17 characters; a short or malformed VIN on a newer car is a red flag.
Can I check by license plate instead?
Yes. Enter a U.S. license plate and state and it resolves to the VIN, then pulls the same report.