Alabama VIN Lookup

Renowned for its significant contributions to sending rockets on rides to space, Alabama also has over 94,000 miles of highway for enjoyable driving. Post COVID-19, the "Rocket City" has one of the highest numbers of used cars per capita on its roads, with some 12 used car dealers per 100,000 residents. For anyone considering purchasing a pre-owned vehicle in Alabama, conducting a VIN lookup is crucial. This process not only reveals the vehicle's history, which could inform the buyer about defects or otherwise that may require costly repairs, but it also ensures that the vehicle meets the high standards expected in a state known for technological excellence.

In Alabama, you can perform a VIN lookup through several avenues. The Alabama Department of Motor Vehicles offers VIN verification services. Additionally, numerous online platforms like Infotracer provide comprehensive vehicle history reports, which can be accessed either for free or for a fee. These services also allow for license plate lookups, providing an alternative method for initiating a VIN search.

A thorough VIN lookup in Alabama provides detailed information about the vehicle's manufacturing year, make, model, engine specifications, country of origin, transmission type, and visual documentation. It also includes data on sales history, government records, odometer readings, accident history, and any recalls issued for the vehicle. This information is invaluable for making an informed decision in the used car market.

VIN Verification

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code composed of 17 characters that serves as an identification marker for automobiles. It acts as a fingerprint for a vehicle, providing specific information about its make, model, year of manufacture, engine type, and more. VINs are typically located in several places on a vehicle, including the dashboard near the windshield, inside the driver's side door frame, under the hood, or on important documents like the title, registration, and insurance papers.

VIN verification is a process used to confirm that the VIN on a vehicle matches the documentation. In Alabama, VIN verifications are typically conducted by authorized entities such as law enforcement agencies, certified vehicle inspectors, or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). To complete a VIN verification in Alabama, you may need to fill out specific forms provided by the Alabama DMV, which can vary depending on the circumstances, such as whether it's for a standard vehicle, a salvage vehicle, or an out-of-state vehicle seeking Alabama registration.

These forms, such as MVT 5-10 and MVT 5-9, usually require details about the vehicle, its VIN, and the owner's information. VIN verification is typically mandatory for vehicles that are being registered in the state for the first time or vehicles with out-of-state titles seeking Alabama registration. Additionally, VIN verification may be required for certain specific cases, such as salvage vehicles or vehicles with missing or altered VINs.

Car Ownership and Driving Statistics in Alabama

Ownership Rate

94.1%

Registered Vehicles

5,320,340

Car Ownership Rate

With a car ownership rate of 94.1%, Alabama boasted 5,320,340 registered vehicles in 2020. Notably, there were 2,890 registered electric vehicles reported during the same period.

Miles Per Year

17,817

Average Annual Mileage

The average annual mileage per driver in Alabama is 17,817 miles.

Popular Car

Ford F-150

Popular Car Makes

The Ford F-150 stands as the top-selling vehicle model in Alabama.

Crashes

31,990

Fatalities

586

Car Accidents

In 2021, a traffic crash was reported every 3 minutes and 27 seconds, with 986 people killed in 887 fatal crashes.

In 2022, there were 31,990 reported traffic crashes. These incidents resulted in 10,914 injuries and 586 fatalities. The numbers represented a decrease of 2,185 crashes and 646 fewer injuries compared to the 2021 figures.

Crashes

884

Fatalities

50

Impaired Driving Fatalities

Rural DUI crashes accounted for 41% of all recorded DUI crashes and contributed to 53% of DUI-related fatalities in Alabama. In 2022, rural roads witnessed 1,991 DUI-related crashes, resulting in 137 fatalities. As of 2023, there have been 884 DUI-related crashes on rural roads, leading to 50 fatalities.

Fatalities

44%

Teen Crashes

Teen motor vehicle crashes are a significant concern, with 44% of motor vehicle crash deaths directly involving teen drivers aged 13-19 in 2020.

Alabama DMV

Alabama's DMV provides a range of essential services to residents, ensuring smooth and efficient handling of various motor vehicle-related tasks. Here are specific services offered by the Alabama DMV:

• MyDMV: A personalized online platform offering convenient access to individualized DMV services and information.
• License Plates: Facilitating the issuance and renewal of vehicle license plates, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
• Administrative Rules: Access to comprehensive information regarding administrative regulations for each tax division.
• Make an Appointment: Enables individuals to schedule appointments for streamlined and organized DMV service processes.
• Driver's License / CDL: Services catering to the issuance and renewal of driver's licenses and Commercial Driver's Licenses, ensuring compliance with driving regulations.
• Mailing Addresses: Official mailing addresses are provided for correspondence regarding DMV-related matters.
• Vehicle Valuation: Access to information assisting in determining vehicle values for various purposes.
• Recalls by VIN: Allows individuals to check for vehicle recalls using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• Vehicle Drive Out Info: Provides essential information and guidelines concerning vehicle drive-out procedures within the state.
• Alabama Department of Public Health - Motor Vehicle Safety: Provides information on motor vehicle safety in Alabama.
• Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) - Driver License Division: Offers resources for driver's license renewal, including online renewal services, requirements, and documentation.
• Alabama Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicle Division: Provides information on vehicle registration, including procedures, required documentation, fees, and renewal processes.
• Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT): Offers resources on road safety, including traffic laws, safety guidelines, and information on highway improvements.
• Alabama Department of Insurance: Offers information and resources related to Auto Insurance requirements, regulations, and consumer guides.
• Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM): Provides information on environmental regulations, including guidelines for hazardous waste, pollution control, and vehicle-related environmental standards.
• Alabama Department of Public Safety - Highway Patrol Division: Offers safety resources such as safe driving tips, DUI prevention, and information on seat belt laws. (Website: dps.alabama.gov)

Buying a Used Car in Alabama

When buying a used car in Alabama, there are several important rules and procedures you need to be aware of:

Registration

You have 20 days from the purchase date to title and register the vehicle with the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). The registration process involves several documents, including the current title, a bill of sale (if required), an odometer disclosure, and potentially a Power of Attorney form if there's a lien on the vehicle.

Odometer Statement

For cars less than ten years old, a Federal Odometer Statement is required.

Bill of Sale

The rules regarding the Bill of Sale can vary by county, so it's important to check with your local title and registration office.

Mechanical Inspection

Since you're buying the car as-is, it's recommended that you get a mechanical inspection to identify any potential future repairs.

Vehicle History Report

It's advisable to obtain a vehicle history report, which can provide insights into the car's past, like accident history, odometer readings, and Lemon Law history.

Insurance

Mandatory liability insurance is required before you can register the vehicle. You'll need to show proof of this insurance when registering.

Tax

Automobiles registered or titled outside Alabama and exported within 72 hours for initial use outside the state are subject to Alabama's 2% sales tax, aligning with the state's automotive sales tax rate.

Check for Recalls

Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to see if the car has any outstanding recalls. This can impact both safety and value.

Reasons to Conduct a VIN Lookup in Alabama

A VIN lookup is one of the most important aspects of buying a used car in Alabama. It provides crucial information about the vehicle's history. Here are some key reasons to conduct a VIN lookup:

• Reveal Accident History: A VIN lookup can show if the vehicle has been involved in any accidents.
• Detecting Theft Status: It helps determine if the car has been reported stolen.
• Identify Title Issues: The check can reveal if there are any liens on the vehicle or if it has ever been declared as salvaged or a total loss.
• Uncover Potential Fraud: It can highlight discrepancies in the vehicle's history, such as odometer fraud.
• Check for Recalls: You can find out if the car has had any manufacturer recalls that still need to be addressed.
• Insurance and Warranty Information: The VIN lookup may provide details about the car's insurance claims history and if it's still under manufacturer warranty.
• Verify Vehicle Specifications: Ensure the car's make, model, year, and engine type match what is being advertised.

How to Lookup a VIN Number in Alabama

To look up a VIN in Alabama, you can follow these steps using the Alabama Department of Revenue's online services:

VIN Replacement in Alabama

In Alabama, when a VIN is altered, removed, defaced, or missing, you must apply for a new VIN assignment through the Alabama Department of Revenue. This process begins with submitting an Application for Alabama Assigned Vehicle Identification Number, known as form INV 26-3. You can find this form and apply online through the MyDMV portal on the Alabama Department of Revenue's website.

The process ensures that vehicles can be legally registered and driven. It's particularly important for vehicles that are rebuilt or made from scratch, such as homemade trailers. A thorough inspection by a designated officer or agency is typically required to verify the vehicle's identity and compliance with safety standards before a new VIN can be assigned.

Vehicle Inspections in Alabama

Vehicle inspections in Alabama include a VIN inspection to ensure that a vehicle's VIN matches the one on its papers. This process involves physical inspection by a licensing officer or an appointed deputy. The inspection confirms the uniqueness and standardization of the VIN and checks that it matches the ownership and registration documents. Some vehicles, such as recently registered or renewed, IRP-registered vehicles, in-stock vehicles, and utility trailers, are exempt from physical inspections.

What Does a Vehicle Inspection Report Include in Alabama?

A Vehicle Inspection Report in Alabama includes checks for:

• Safety components like brakes, lights, horns, mirrors, and seatbelts.
• The emission systems to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
• The condition of tires, including tread depth and wear.
• Any fluid leaks that might indicate mechanical issues.
• The windshield and windows for cracks or other issues that impair visibility.
• Functionality of lights and signals.