New Jersey VIN Lookup

New Jersey is one of the safest states for motorists in the country. Besides its beautiful landscape, the state also has well-developed road infrastructure in urban and rural areas, making it ideal for drivers of sedans, SUVs, trailers, and commercial vans to travel without too many issues.

However, it is relatively expensive to own a car in the state. The Average annual cost of car ownership in New Jersey is about $5,600, and the average car insurance is S1,600. You can save on this cost when purchasing a used car in New Jersey by performing a VIN Lookup. VIN checks reveal information about the vehicle, such as accident history, repairs, maintenance records, and ownership history.

Potential buyers can use the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) service to look up a VIN in New Jersey. Additionally, the NHTSA website has a database that people can use to look up a car's history. Lastly, a person can use free or paid online services, like Infotracer, to check a car's VIN.

VIN Verification

VIN verification in New Jersey involves identifying if the VIN of a car is accurate and authentic. This verification is often required in various situations, and it helps ensure that the vehicle is correctly identified and matches the information on official documents.

New Jersey requires VIN verification for non-titled vehicles and vehicles purchased out of the state with no title. Vehicle owners must present the previous owner's registration. The owner must complete the appropriate fields on the registration document if it is transferable.

Individuals must also present the notarized bill of sale from the previous owner with details such as the year, VIN, date of sale, purchase price, make, and a complete vehicle description. In addition, authorities require a pencil tracing or photograph of the VIN plate. If it is unavailable, owners must complete and submit an 'ISM/SS-321 VIN Verification Statement' in its place.

Authorities will also require a photocopy of the owner's driver's license, a complete 'OS/SS-7 Application for Certificate of Title' and a completed 'BA-49 Registration Application.'

VIN verification is done at any local NJMVC center.

New Jersey Car Ownership and Driving Information

Ownership Rate

88.7%

Low Car Ownership Rate

In 2021, New Jersey was among the states with the lowest car ownership rate. 88.7% of households had at least one vehicle.

Miles Per Year

66.3 million

Average Annual Mileage

New Jersey's average miles traveled is about 66.3 million miles annually.

Popular Car

Honda CR-V

Popular Car Makes in New Jersey

New Jersey's number one car has been the Honda CR-V since 2016. Other popular vehicles include the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, and the Nissan Rogue.

Crashes

550

Fatalities

579

Car Accidents

The state recorded 550 crashes in 2023, resulting in 579 fatalities.

Crashes

26%

Fatalities

178

Speeding Related Crashes

In 2021, 26% of all crash fatalities were caused by speeding. This translated to 178 fatalities.

Fatalities

147

Alcohol-Impaired Driving

In 2022, the state recorded 147 deaths related to alcohol-impaired driving.

Crashes

13%

Teen Safety

In New Jersey, teenaged motorists (16-20) represent only 6% of licensed drivers. However, they are involved in 13% of all crashes.

New Jersey DMV

The New Jersey DMV is known as the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC). The NJMVC is responsible for managing various motor vehicle services, including:

• Licensing: Issuing and renewing driver's licenses and identification cards.
• Vehicle Registration: Handling the registration and titling of vehicles.
• Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL): Managing CDL issuance and renewals.
• Motor Vehicle Records: Providing access to driving records and other related information.
• Real ID: Issuing Real ID-compliant driver's licenses and identification cards.
• Online Services: The NJMVC provides various online services, allowing residents to complete various transactions without visiting a physical office. This includes license renewals, address changes, and more.
• Vehicle Inspections: The NJMVC oversees the inspection of vehicles for safety and emissions compliance. Inspections are required periodically, and the NJMVC ensures that motor vehicles meet safety and environmental criteria.
• Motorcycle Safety: The NJMVC provides information and services related to motorcycle safety and licensing.
• Driver Testing: The NJMVC conducts various types of driver tests.

Resources for Car Drivers/Owners

Complying with federal laws and regulations related to environmental quality is essential for drivers in New Jersey, as it contributes to the overall well-being of the environment and ensures the safety and sustainability of transportation. Here are some key resources:

• New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission: Manages driver licensing, vehicle registration, and inspection programs in the state.
• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection: It oversees environmental protection initiatives, focusing on air quality and environmental regulations.
• National Environmental Policy Act: Requires federal agencies to consider the environmental impacts of their actions.
• Environmental Protection Agency: Sets emissions standards and oversees environmental regulations.
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Administers the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards.
• New Jersey Department of Transportation: Oversees transportation planning and infrastructure projects with consideration for environmental impact.
• New Jersey Clean Energy Program: Promotes energy efficiency and clean energy technologies. They provide incentives for electric vehicles and energy-efficient transportation.

Buying a Used Car in New Jersey

Buying a used car in New Jersey is a good choice. However, there are various aspects to consider for a smooth transaction. In addition, the state has rules for titling and ways to safeguard your purchase. Consider the following:

New Jersey Lemon Laws

New Jersey is one of the few states that protects used car buyers through the Lemon Law.The law covers the engine, transmission, front-wheel, and rear-wheel drive. However, the law does not cover:

• Motor vehicles more than 7 model years old.
• Motor vehicles sold for less than $3,000.
• Motor vehicles not purchased from a dealer
• Motor vehicles sold 'as is'.
• Motor vehicles that were declared a total loss by an insurance company.
• Motor vehicles that have odometer readings of more than 100,000 miles.

Conducting a VIN Check

Even with Lemon Law protection, buyers are encouraged to perform a VIN check to reveal information about the vehicle's history.

Title Transfer and Registration

Individuals who purchase a vehicle from a New Jersey dealership should not worry about registration, as the dealership should title and register the vehicle. Purchasing from any other source means the buyer should register the vehicle with the NJMVC. Individuals should set up an appointment and bring all the required documents.

Sales Tax

In New Jersey, car buyers must pay a 6.625% sales tax based on the vehicle's purchase price. This applies to new and used vehicles.

Reasons to Do a VIN Check in New Jersey

Performing a VIN check in New Jersey is a prudent step when considering purchasing a used car. Compelling reasons to do a VIN check include:

• Insurance Purposes: Some insurance companies may request VIN information when providing coverage.
• Peace of Mind: Performing a VIN check offers peace of mind by providing a comprehensive overview of the vehicle's history.
• Recall Information: VIN checks provide information on open recalls associated with the vehicle. Buyers should avoid such vehicles.
• Theft Check: VIN checks include information about whether a vehicle has been reported as stolen. It helps buyers avoid cars involved in illegal activity.
• Odometer Reading Verification: VIN checks can reveal the vehicle's odometer reading history, helping buyers verify the accuracy of the mileage reported by the seller.
• Accident History: VIN checks often include information about the vehicle's accident history.
• Title Verification: A VIN check can help verify the vehicle's title status. It ensures the title is clear, without any liens or legal issues, and provides information on potential title branding, such as salvage or flood titles.

How to Lookup a VIN Number in New Jersey

Potential car buyers in New Jersey have several options to check a vehicle's VIN. They include:

VIN Replacement in New Jersey

New Jersey does not provide the proper procedures for VIN replacement. However, if a car's VIN has been damaged or the part housing the VIN plate is replaced, a person can ask for additional information about identification number replacement from the state's Motor Vehicle Commission. Additionally, if an examiner suspects a VIN is altered or modified, the owner will be penalized.

New Vehicle Registration in New Jersey

In New Jersey, a person must register a new car within 60 days after buying it. The state's Motor Vehicle Commission is responsible for state vehicle registration.

If a person buys a car from a New Jersey dealer, it is the dealer's responsibility to register and title the car. However, a person who purchases a vehicle from a private dealer or an auction should register it themselves.

It's important to note that the department does not allow walk-ins. One must schedule an appointment to register a new car. They should also provide the following:

• Complete Certificate of Title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO).
• Proof of identity, whether a driver's license or an identification card.
• Proof of New Jersey insurance or policy number.
• A completed Vehicle Registration Application Form BA-49.
• An attorney if another person other than the owner is signing the documents.
• Lien holder information if the car is financed or leased.

How to Transfer VIN During a Sale in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the state requires title transfers to be done within ten working days from purchase. The Motor Vehicle Agency is responsible for transferring titles in the state. All car information, including the vehicle's VIN, will be transferred to the new owner during the title transfer.

If a person wants to transfer a car's title, they should provide the following information:

• Complete Certificate of Title with both the buyer's and seller's signatures.
• Bill of sale.
• The Certificate of Title should also have odometer readings filled.
• A completed Vehicle Registration Application (Form BA-49).
• If a person transfers a car's title on behalf of the new owner, they require an attorney present.
• A lien holder's information is if another party leases or finances the vehicle.
• Transfer fee.

What Would a Vehicle History Report Include in New Jersey

A vehicle history report helps buyers make informed decisions by offering insights into the vehicle's past. It will include details on the vehicle's title history, indicating whether it has a clean title, salvage title, or other title branding issues. In addition, it covers accident history, odometer readings, and maintenance records.

How Can I Find the VIN by License Plate?

Some third-party services offer a license plate lookup service. The results encompass details about the vehicle, including the registered VIN.

Vehicle Inspections in New Jersey

New Jersey requires basic non-commercial vehicles to undergo inspection once every two years. This law does not apply to new vehicles. Instead, new vehicles must undergo a 5-year inspection.

What Does the Vehicle Inspection Report Include in New Jersey?

A Vehicle Inspection Report in New Jersey provides a detailed assessment of a vehicle's safety and emissions compliance following an inspection conducted at an authorized inspection facility. The report includes information about the vehicle's emissions system, brakes, lights, tires, steering, suspension, and other essential components.