Idaho VIN Lookup

Checking a vehicle's information through a VIN check is not a legal requirement in Idaho. However, it is recommended to ensure that used car buyers can access a vehicle's history. Having this history gives buyers a good idea of the type of damage, maintenance, and repairs the car has been through. It is a crucial step in deciding to purchase the car.

Idaho's landscape is mostly covered by mountain regions, gorges, and grassy plateaus. For this reason, many residents prefer owning trucks and SUVs due to their sturdiness and performance, especially when hauling trailers or boats through the state. Additionally, four-wheel ATVs are also in demand for people who love camping or hunting in the South Hills during the winter.

As previously stated, anyone looking to buy a used car in Idaho must look up its VIN. One way to do this is by visiting Idaho's Transport Department Online Service, which allows people to look up a car's information using its identification number. Idaho car buyers can also use the National Highway Transport Safety Authority (NHTSA) website, which provides VIN check services. Lastly, residents can use free and paid online services that provide car status based on their VIN information.

VIN Verification

VIN verification is the process of confirming that the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) matches the identification number recorded in official documents, such as the vehicle title or registration. VIN verification is important to ensure that a car is safe to use and that its registration is valid.

The state of Idaho authorizes car dealers and law enforcement agencies to conduct VIN verification. In addition, out-of-state inspectors and financial institution employees may conduct VIN inspections and verifications.

In Idaho, the law requires all vehicles with an out-of-state title to get VIN inspection and verification. The same applies to vehicles purchased with a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin.

In some cases, authorities may require VIN verification to confirm the authenticity and accuracy of the VIN.

Idaho Car Ownership and Driving Information

Ownership Rate

96.2%

High Car Ownership Rate

Idaho has the highest rate of car ownership, tying with Wyoming at 96.2% of households having at least one car. The Twin Falls metropolitan area had the highest car ownership rates per household in the state. 32.1% of the residents were most likely to own three or more vehicles.

Miles Per Year

14,400

Average Annual Mileage

The average number of miles each driver in Idaho drives yearly is around 14,400. Considering the high car ownership rate, this average annual mileage is low.

Popular Car

Ford F-150

Popular Car Makes in Idaho

The Ford F-150 is the most popular car in Idaho because the truck helps to navigate the Idaho terrain and farmland. Other popular cars in the state are the Toyota RAV4, Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Silverado, and Ram 1500.

Crashes

27,661

Injuries

8,443

Car Accidents

The number of motor vehicle crashes in 2021 was 27,661, increasing by 0.4% since the previous year. This resulted in 8,443 injuries.

Fatalities

222

Car Crash Fatalities

The fatality rate per 100 million miles traveled was 1.40 in 2021. In 2023, there were 222 fatalities from car crashes.

Crashes

1,729

Fatalities

108

Impaired Driving

In 2021, there were 1,729 impaired driving crashes in Idaho, resulting in 108 fatalities. These crashes involved alcohol and drug use.

Drivers

73,989

Teen Safety

Idaho is among the top dangerous states for young drivers. In 2022, about 73,989 drivers aged between 16 and 19 years old were involved in a traffic violation.

Idaho DMV

The Idaho Transportation Department serves as the state DMV. The department is in charge of vehicle ownership processes. They ensure the safety of consumers and provide convenience to all vehicle owners. Some of the services Idaho residents can access through the ITD include:

• Renewing registration: Drivers can renew their car registrations.
• Registering vehicles: Car buyers should register vehicles at the ITD.
• Personalized plates: Drivers who want personalized plates can apply for and get them from the DMV.
• Renew driver's license: All renewals are under the department.
• Replace license: The department allows drivers to replace lost licenses.
• Driving records: Individuals may purchase driving and vehicle records from the DMV.
• Vehicle insurance: Drivers can update vehicle insurance information, pay reinstatement fees, and submit vehicle exception forms.
• Commercial vehicles and permits: Commercial vehicle owners can register their vehicles and get various permits.
• Records: Individuals can use the ITD to search for vehicle titles, registration records, and driver's license records, among others.

Resources for Car Drivers/Owners

Compliance with federal laws and environmental quality regulations is important in Idaho. Key resources for drivers include:

• Idaho Transportation Department (ITD): The department oversees various aspects of transportation in Idaho, including driver services and vehicle registration. The website provides information on compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ): Idaho DEQ protects the state's environment and public health. It provides information on air quality, emissions testing, and environmental regulations affecting drivers.
• U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT): The DOT is a federal agency responsible for regulating and overseeing various modes of transportation in the United States. It provides information on federal laws and regulations affecting drivers.
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): FMCSA is a division focusing on commercial motor vehicle safety. It provides information on regulations for commercial drivers, including hours of service, safety requirements, and compliance resources.
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): NHTSA focuses on improving vehicle safety and performance. It provides information on recalls, vehicle safety standards, and other resources for drivers.
• Idaho Emissions Testing Program: In some regions of Idaho, emissions testing is required. This program provides information on testing locations, requirements, and compliance.

Buying a Used Car in Idaho

Buying a used car in Idaho, like in any other state, requires careful consideration to make a sound investment. Here are key aspects to consider:

Idaho Lemon Law

The Idaho Lemon Law applies to vehicles that come with a manufacturer warranty. However, it does not apply to used car sales. Therefore, buyers should be keen to obtain the vehicle history to learn about potential damages and repairs.

VIN Check

To avoid fraud, buyers should obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on the car. Conducting a VIN check allows buyers to obtain the vehicle history report. The report will highlight any issues, such as vehicle damage or theft reports. Individuals can use InfoTracer or obtain a motor car's history report from the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS).

Idaho Title Transfer and Car Registration

Buyers must apply for a title within 30 days of purchasing the vehicle. Buyers should never purchase a car without a title certificate. The title should indicate the VIN, seller's signature, date of the sale, buyer's information, odometer disclosure, and the purchase price. Sellers who do not have the car's title should apply for a duplicate title prior to selling it. At the same time as completing the title transfer, the buyer must register the car at the county assessor's DMV office.

Sales Tax

Additionally, all vehicles in Idaho are subject to a 6% sales tax. However, this rate can increase to about 9%, depending on the county and local taxes. On average, you should expect to pay about 6.1% car sale tax.

Reasons to Do a VIN Check in Idaho

There are several reasons why individuals should conduct a VIN check in Idaho. They include the following:

• Title History Verification: A VIN check can reveal if the car has a salvage title, was declared a total loss by an insurance company, or has other title issues.
• Odometer Fraud Prevention: Idaho law prohibits odometer tampering. A VIN check helps buyers verify the accuracy of the odometer reading.
• Safety Recall Information: A VIN check can reveal whether the used car has outstanding safety recalls.
• Emissions Compliance: In areas of Idaho where emissions testing is mandatory, a VIN check can help verify the vehicle's emissions compliance status.
• Liens and Financial Encumbrances: A VIN check can reveal if the car has any outstanding liens or loans.
• Insurance Considerations: Some insurance companies may require a VIN check before providing coverage for a used car.

How to Lookup a VIN Number in Idaho

In Idaho, potential vehicle buyers have several ways to check a car's VIN. They include:

VIN Replacement in Idaho

The state transportation department does not provide information on VIN replacement. However, a person must pay a bond for a vehicle with a damaged or tampered identification number to obtain a title. The bond required is one and a half times the car's appraised value. Afterward, a person will be issued with a Bonded Title, which expires after three years, and if no claims are made against the bond, a person can reapply to get a regular title.

New Vehicle Registration in Idaho

A person does not need to go down to the DMV to register a new vehicle. They can do it by logging in to the Idaho DMV online portal. The Idaho Transportation Department has a detailed guide on how a person should register for a new vehicle.

To register the car, all they require is:

• Their Idaho driving license or identification card.
• Social Security Number.
• The Report of Sale and Application for Certificate of Title or 502 Form that the dealer provided.

The Idaho deal will submit the title information to the ITD. However, online vehicle registration is only for non-commercial vehicle registration.

How to Transfer VIN During a Sale in Idaho

Title transfer is an important part of car ownership. A person should follow these simple steps to transfer an Idaho vehicle title and VIN:

• Carry a vehicle title that has the signature of both the buyer and the seller.
• Residents of the City of Ada, Canyon, and Kuna countries must have a vehicle emission test.
• The car should pass a smog check.
• Pay an Idaho vehicle transfer fee and applicable registration fees.

Title transfer is done at any DMV in the state.

What Would Vehicle History Report Include in Idaho?

A vehicle history report in Idaho typically includes a range of information about a vehicle's past. Potential buyers can access information such as the brand history, current and previous states of title, title issue dates, theft reports, odometer readings, lien data, and damage history.

How Can I Find the VIN by License Plate?

Individuals can use third-party license plate lookup services to find the VIN by license plate. By inputting the vehicle license plate number, buyers can find the VIN.

Vehicle Inspections in Idaho

Idaho only requires vehicle emission inspections for Ada, Canyon counties, and Kuna City residents. They must undergo inspections every two years. This requirement applies to all gasoline-powered vehicles from 1981 and newer model years and to diesel-powered vehicles over five years old.

What Does Vehicle Inspection Report Include in Idaho?

In Idaho, a vehicle inspection report typically includes information related to a vehicle's safety and emissions inspection. Therefore, it may include the VIN, inspection results, inspection date, odometer readings, and vehicle specifications.