Kansas VIN Lookup

Cars in Kansas are not only for comfort; they also play a huge role in people's livelihood. A large portion of the state depends on agricultural businesses. Hence, most residents rely on trucks and SUVs for their performance and versatility to help in their farm work and daily commutes. However, when buying a used truck or vehicle in the state, it is always good to perform a Vehicle Identification Number or VIN check. The lookup provides buyer insight into the car, which makes it easier to decide on purchasing or skipping the deal. With access to accident history, maintenance records, and repairs, buyers learn more about the car than the dealer tells.

There are several ways Kansas residents can perform a VIN check before buying a preowned car. One way is using the Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Transportation to find a list of approved VIN check services. Additionally, a person can use the NHTSA website to look up a car's information and history using its VIN or license plate.

VIN Verification

Kansas laws require individuals to inspect vehicles previously titled in another state. This inspection verifies the vehicle's VIN, ensuring it is genuine and agrees with the VIN on the title. Individuals must undergo this inspection before applying for a Kansas title.

In addition, vehicles that have been assembled or are homemade must also undergo inspection to verify the VIN and note the various parts used in assembly or repair. Authorities may also request a VIN inspection if a vehicle's identification number is doubted.

Individuals must bring the vehicle, title and supporting documents, and a valid driver's license for the person presenting the vehicle. All inspections in the state are conducted by the Kansas Highway Patrol Motor Vehicle Enforcement at their various VIN inspection stations throughout the state.

Trained law enforcement agents conduct the inspections. Those who wish to undergo inspection may schedule an appointment through the Kansas Highway Patrol Motor Vehicle Enforcement website.

Kansas Car Ownership and Driving Information

Ownership Rate

94.8%

Registered Vehicles

2.3 per household

High Car Ownership Rate

Kansas has a relatively high car ownership rate, with 94.8% of households having at least one vehicle. The average number of vehicles per household in the state is 2.3.

Miles Per Year

14,781

Average Annual Mileage

In Kansas, the average mileage of a driver every year is about 14,781.

Popular Car

Ford F-150

Popular Car Makes in Kansas

The most popular vehicle in Kansas is the Ford F-150. It is a powerful and capable vehicle, so residents buy it for its towing and hauling capabilities. Other popular cars in the states include the Chevrolet Silverado and the Chevy Malibu.

Crashes

57,598

Car Accidents

In 2021, there were 57,598 traffic crashes in Kansas.

Fatalities

388

Crash Fatalities

In 2023, about 388 deaths occurred due to car collisions in the state.

Crashes

4,479

Fatalities

75

Speeding Related Crashes

In 2021, the state recorded 4,479 speeding-related traffic crashes. Out of them, there were 75 fatalities.

Crashes

2,158

Fatalities

86

Alcohol-Impaired Driving

The number of crashes that involve driving under the influence of alcohol was 2,158 in 2021. These collisions resulted in 86 fatalities.

Crashes

465

Drug-Impaired Driving

The number of crashes involving drug-related drivers in 2021 was 465.

Crashes

11,507

Fatalities

40

Teen Safety

In Kansas, teen driver accidents account for about 20% of all road crashes in the state. In 2021, teen drivers aged 15-19 were involved in about 11,507 accidents, which resulted in 40 fatal crashes.

Kansas DMV

The Kansas Department of Revenue (KRA) has a Division of Vehicles that streamlines vehicle ownership and ensures compliance with state regulations. The division's key services include:

• Status check: Individuals may use the KRA website to check their driver status.
• Registrations: New driver's license registrations are completed with the KRA Division of Vehicles.
• Renewals: Individuals may renew their licenses with the KRA vehicle division.
• Exams: Car owners can take written driver's exams through their online portal.
• Driver's ED: The website has a driver's ED instructor portal.
• Plate Replacement: Car owners can get plate replacement information from the website.
• Personalized Plates: Individuals may search the database to determine if their personalized plates are available.
• CDLs: Car owners may obtain commercial driver's licenses from the KRA website.
• Resources: The KRA Division of Vehicles maintains resources for drivers and car owners.

Resources for Car Drivers/Owners

Drivers in Kansas can access various resources to help them learn environmental quality standards and comply with federal regulations. These resources are usually available online from the following sources:

• Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE): The department is in charge of environmental protection and public health in Kansas and may have information on air quality, emissions testing, and other environmental concerns.
• Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles: The department handles registration and titling. They may provide information on emissions testing requirements and compliance.
• Kansas Department of Agriculture - Division of Conservation: The division may have information on environmental regulations affecting vehicles.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): The EPA sets federal standards for vehicle emissions and air quality. They provide information on federal laws and regulations related to environmental quality.
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The administration is responsible for vehicle safety and may have information on federal regulations and compliance related to vehicle manufacturing and safety standards.

Buying a Used Car in Kansas

When a buyer purchases a used car in Kansas, it can either be a good or problematic investment. Therefore, buyers must consider a few key factors to help them avoid buying fraudulent cars. In addition, the state has regulations for post-purchase. They include:

Understanding Lemon Laws

Unfortunately, Kansas Lemon Laws do not apply to used cars. They only apply to leasing or purchasing new vehicles under 12,000 lbs.

Conducting a VIN Check

Car buyers should perform a VIN check to ensure the car has not been reported as stolen. The VIN check additionally reports accident history and provides maintenance records for the car.

Title Transfer and Registration

Individuals must apply for a certificate of title and registration through the treasurer's office in the respective county. Residents have 60 days from the purchase date to make this request. Individuals must provide the following information at the County Treasurer's Office:

• The vehicle title is completed with the buyer and seller's information and signatures.
• Lien release if there is a lienholder on the title.
• A vehicle inspection form is required if the vehicle has an out-of-state title or the Bill of Sale is from an out-of-state owner.
• Current proof of insurance.
• Sales tax receipt if the car was purchased from a dealer.

Sales Tax

The sales tax for all new and used cars is 7.3% but might increase to 8.7% depending on the county and local tax laws.

Reasons to Do a VIN Check in Kansas

Conducting a VIN check in Kansas is important for the following reasons:

• Pre-Purchase Inspection: If you're considering buying a used car, a VIN check can provide critical information to help you make an informed decision about the purchase. For example, floods could damage vehicles, as Kansas tends to have severe storms.
• Stolen Vehicle Check: Verify that the vehicle has not been reported as stolen. A VIN check can help you confirm the vehicle's legal status. The most popular cars in the state (large pickup trucks) are the typical target for thieves within the borders.
• Lien and Loan Information: Determine if there are any pending liens or loans on the vehicle, as this could affect your ability to transfer ownership.
• Title and Ownership Verification: Ensure that the car's VIN is the same as the VIN on the title and registration documents, which will help verify ownership.
• Odometer Reading Verification: Check the reported odometer readings to ensure they are accurate and haven't been tampered with, helping you assess the vehicle's actual mileage.
• Accident History: Accessing a vehicle's VIN report can provide information about its involvement in accidents, including the severity and extent of damage.

How to Lookup a VIN Number in Kansas

There are several ways Kansas residents can look up a car's VIN in the state. They include:

VIN Replacement in Kansas

Kansas does not provide any information about VIN replacement. However, if a car owner needs to replace the VIN, they should contact the state's Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles for more information. It is important to note that a person might be fined or penalized if the VIN is found altered or modified.

New Vehicle Registration in Kansas

New car owners are required to register their vehicles within 60 days of purchase. To register their new cars, they should visit the nearest country treasurer's office.

Here are a few things that a person should have during their visit to the office:

• They should have a signed manufacturer's statement/certificate of origin (MSO/MCO).
• Proof of insurance.
• A bill of sale.
• They should have paid property tax.
• A valid Kansas driving license or identification card.
• They will have to pay a registration fee.

Once registration is completed, a person will be issued a paper license plate. The digital license plate should be mailed within three weeks after registration.

How to Transfer VIN During a Sale in Kansas

In Kansas, the county treasurer's office transfers car titles/VINs during new vehicle purchases and when used vehicles change ownership. The state requires buyers to transfer car titles (and thus VINs) within 60 days after purchase. During a title transfer, all car ownership, details, and VIN will be changed from the seller to the buyer.

To transfer titles in Kansas, a person is required to:

• Have the title of the vehicle and the assignment completed by the new owner. Additionally, the back of the title must have the signatures of both the buyer and seller, the car's odometer ridings, purchase price, and date of sale.
• If the car has a lienholder, then a person should also provide a notarized lien release - Form TR-150 or a letter of lien release from the lienholder.
• The bill of sale.
• The state requires inspection of all cars with an out-of-state title or bill of sale. The car must be examined at a Kansas motor vehicle inspection station, and a motor vehicle examination must be issued.
• Buyers should have proof of insurance.
• A person should also have the sales tax receipt from the dealer.

What Would Vehicle History Report Include in Kansas?

The report includes details such as title and ownership history, accident history, odometer readings, information on any liens or loans associated with the vehicle, whether the vehicle has a salvage or rebuilt title, safety recalls, emissions compliance, and theft records.

How Can I Find the VIN by License Plate?

A person can use third-party online services to conduct a license plate search that will provide information like a vehicle's VIN.

Vehicle Inspections in Kansas

The state of Kansas does not require vehicle emissions testing for any vehicles. Instead, the state only requires VIN inspections before registration for certain vehicles to prevent theft, for example, if a person is trying to register a car with an out-of-state title.

What Does the Vehicle Inspection Report Include in Kansas?

In Kansas, a vehicle inspection report typically includes emissions compliance, safety features inspection (brakes, lights, tires), VIN verification, structural integrity and general condition assessment, and examination of essential components like wipers and mirrors.