CHP VIN Verification Form Details

The REG 31 form, also called the Verification of Vehicle form, is issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles to confirm that a vehicle's identification number (VIN) matches official registration records. This verification is required in several situations: when registering an out-of-state or foreign vehicle in California for the first time, when a salvage or nonrepairable vehicle certificate has been issued, when a vehicle's VIN plate is missing or has been altered, and when a private-party vehicle purchase involves a title that raises questions about the vehicle's identity.

Only authorized individuals may complete the REG 31. These include a DMV representative, a California-licensed vehicle verifier, an authorized auto club employee, or a peace officer who has been trained in vehicle verification procedures. During the inspection, the verifier confirms the VIN, license plate number, make, model year, body type, and all required federal labels and stickers. The form must be completed in black or blue ink, with no blank fields, alterations, or erasures.

Vehicles with discrepancies may be referred to a California Highway Patrol office for a more thorough inspection before registration is approved.

QuestionAnswer
Form NameChp Vin Verification Form
Form Length2 pages
Fillable?No
Fillable fields0
Avg. time to fill out30 sec
Other namesdmv verification of vehicle california, reg vehicle, ca dmv reg 31 form, california dmv verification

How to Edit Chp Vin Verification Form Online for Free

The CHP VIN Verification form (REG 31) must be completed by an authorized verifier, not the vehicle owner. Use FormsPal to view, save, and print the form before your appointment. Here is how to get started:

Step 1: Click the "Get Form" button above to open the REG 31 in our PDF editor.

Step 2: Review all fields before printing. Save a copy to share with the verifier prior to the inspection date.

The form has three main sections:

1. Vehicle identification section - captures the VIN, license plate number, year, make, model, body type, and required NHTSA sticker information. Have the vehicle's title and documents ready to cross-reference before the inspection begins.

reg31 writing process explained (part 1)

2. Odometer and supporting documents section - the verifier records odometer mileage and notes whether it agrees or disagrees with supporting title documents. If no odometer reading is present, the verifier draws a line through the mileage boxes.

How one can prepare reg31 portion 2

3. Verifier certification section - signed and stamped by the authorized verifier. The verifier's license or badge number, printed name, employer, and date are recorded here.

reg31 completion process shown (step 3)

Step 3: After the verifier signs and stamps the form, submit the original REG 31 to the California DMV along with your registration application and supporting documents.

Common Questions About the CHP VIN Verification Form

When do I need a VIN verification?

A VIN verification is required when registering a vehicle from out of state, when a salvage or nonrepairable title is involved, or when the VIN plate is missing or altered.

Who can perform a VIN verification in California?

Only a DMV representative, a California-licensed vehicle verifier (VV), an authorized auto club employee, or a trained peace officer may complete the REG 31. The vehicle owner cannot self-verify.

What other vehicle forms may I need?

You may also need to complete a vehicle registration application. FormsPal also provides VIN verification forms for other states.