Updated on 31 Oct 2025
When you purchase a car, it is not only about the colour, model or brand. Each vehicle has its own individuality. This is kept in a unique code known as the Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN. Just like the fingerprint, no two cars share the same VIN. It holds a lot of valuable details about the vehicle, like where it was made, its features and more. You’ll need VIN while registering the car, buying car insurance or checking its history.
Let’s look into the what, why and how of this unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
What is a VIN or chassis number?
A 17-digit code that includes both letters and numbers is known as a vehicle identification number. It is given to each vehicle during production. No two cars on the globe share the same VIN, which makes it an important identification tool.
It provides specific details including the vehicle's make, model, engine type, as well as the nation and year of manufacture. It is also sometimes called the chassis number, even though they may not be technically the same.
A VIN assists authorities, insurance providers, as well as owners in keeping tabs on things such as accidents or damage, ownership history, manufacturer recalls, theft or registration troubles.
Where can I find the VIN?
The VIN is typically stamped or printed in certain areas of the vehicle. The most common location is on the dashboard near the windshield on the driver's side. Stand outside the automobile on the driver's side and look at the lower-left side of the windshield to locate it. If not there, open the driver's door and look at the inner door frame or door post.
Here are additional areas where you can find your VIN:
- Under the hood, on the engine block
- On the steering column
- Near the spare tyre compartment
- In the inner wheel arch towards the left-hand side
- Radiator support bracket
You can also find the VIN in the listed documents:
- Vehicle registration certificate
- Insurance papers
- Car title documents
- Road tax receipt
- The car's service history or emission test documents
In short, your VIN is likely to be listed anywhere your vehicle details are officially recorded.
What do the numbers and letters in a VIN mean?
Each part of the 17-digit VIN plays a specific role. Here is what they mean:
- First character: Region where the vehicle was manufactured
- Second character: The specific country within that region
- Third character: The manufacturer, or a specific division within the manufacturer
- Digits 4 to 8: Vehicle specifications (model, body style, engine, etc.)
- Digit 9: Security check digit (employed to verify errors)
- Digit 10: Year of production
- Digit 11: Manufacturing plant code
- Digits 12-17: Serial number of the vehicle
So, from this one code alone, you can find out a lot about your vehicle. That is why a lot of people look at the VIN when purchasing a used vehicle to ensure that the details of the car match what is on sale.
What if the VIN is not 17 characters long?
If your VIN is less than 17 characters, your vehicle might have been produced before 1981. Before 1981, VINs were of different lengths, typically between 11 and 17 digits. In 1981, worldwide standards shifted, and manufacturers began using the 17-character format.
Most contemporary systems, for example, VIN check companies or insurance providers, utilise only the 17-digit VIN for their operations. Therefore, the information about older vehicles might be restricted on the internet.
Is it possible to check for it online?
Yes, you can check the VIN online. You can use a government portal like VAHAN, manufacturer websites, or vehicle history check services to find out a VIN.
Here is how to check the VIN on VAHAN:
- Visit the VAHAN website
- Click on ‘Know Your Vehicle Details’
- Type your car’s registration number
- Hit ‘Search Vehicle’
Conclusion
Your vehicle identification number is not some arbitrary code. It's an important part of your car's identity. It is mandatory to use it everywhere, from vehicle insurance to registration and safety inspections. Understanding where you can find it when needed will save you time in those urgent situations, like when purchasing, selling or insuring your car.
While you're looking after the paperwork on your car and making sure it's all right, let us take care of keeping you safe on the road. Receive professional guidance on obtaining comprehensive car insurance that is tailored to you by completing the form on this page.
FAQs
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Is the engine number and VIN the same?
No, the VIN represents the vehicle itself as a complete unit. Whereas the engine number only denotes the engine unit. They are used for different purposes.
Yes, sharing your VIN is safe. It's usually for verification reasons while selling cars, servicing and requesting insurance quotes.
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What if my VIN is altered?
Tampering with a VIN is against the law. If you think this has occurred, call your local RTO or police station immediately.
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Does every insurance company require a VIN?
Most insurers often require a VIN, especially if you're purchasing comprehensive insurance to ensure the policy meets your vehicle's specifications.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.