New York VIN Lookup

Purchasing a used car in New York requires performing a VIN check. While it is not a legal requirement, it helps car buyers learn more about the vehicle. For example, a VIN search reveals the car's accident history. This information can help individuals determine the extent of damage and repairs the vehicle may need.

Also known as The Empire State, New York is one of the most renowned states in the country. It is an urban state with huge cities like Buffalo and Rochester and has excellent road infrastructure. Though driving in the cities might be hectic, many residents in the state outside New York City prefer using cars for their daily commute. Therefore, potential buyers mostly look for reliable, efficient, and adaptable cars.

Any New Yorker looking to conduct a VIN check before buying a car can use the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Title/Lien Status Check. Additionally, the NHTSA website provides VIN search services for information about a car's history. New Yorkers can also use third-party VIN check providers, like Infotracer, to get vehicle details.

VIN Verification

VIN verification is a process used to confirm that the identification number on a vehicle's VIN matches the one on the title or registration documents. This verification is typically required in various situations, such as vehicle registration and titling out-of-state cars.

However, the New York State DMV does not mandate VIN verification, even for out-of-state vehicles, before purchase. Instead, car buyers are required to take their cars for inspection before registering.

If the car was bought from a dealer, the vehicle should be inspected within 30 days. If purchased from a private seller, the buyer receives an inspection extension that lasts ten days from the registration date. If the vehicle was bought out of state, the out-of-state inspection remains valid until the expiry date or one year after the registration date (whichever comes first).

If the previous jurisdiction did not provide an inspection sticker, the vehicle must be inspected in New York.

New York Car Ownership and Driving Information

Ownership Rate

71.0%

Registered Vehicles

1.5 per household

Low Car Ownership Rate

New York was among the states with the lowest car ownership rate in the nation. Households that reported at least one vehicle were 71.0%. The average number of cars per household was 1.5.

Miles Per Year

10,167

Average Annual Mileage

New York drivers travel significantly lower miles compared to drivers in other states. The annual mileage per driver in the state is 10,167.

Popular Car

Honda CR-V

Popular Car Makes in New York

Honda CR-V is New York state's number one best-selling vehicle, perhaps because it is a great option for city and highway driving. Other popular cars include the Toyota RAV4, Jeep Cherokee, and the Ram 1500/2500/3500.

Crashes

1,099

Fatalities

1,157

Car Accidents

There were 1,099 fatal accidents in the state, resulting in 1,157 deaths in 2021.

Fatalities

30%

Speeding Related Crashes

Speeding accounts for about 30% of all traffic fatalities in New York.

Crashes

30%

Alcohol-Impaired Driving

In New York State, about 30% of all fatal crashes are related to alcohol-impaired driving.

Fatalities

124

Teen Safety

2022 saw 124 fatalities from traffic crashes involving 16 to 20-year-old drivers.

New York DMV

The New York DMV oversees various motor vehicle-related services and functions. The DMV provides services to New York residents, including:

• Driver's Licenses and Learner's Permits: Issuance of driver's licenses and learner's permits at different stages of the licensing process.
• Vehicle Registration: Processing vehicle registrations for both new and used vehicles. Handling registration renewals and providing registration documents and plates.
• Identification Cards: Issuing non-driver identification cards for individuals who do not hold a driver's license but need official identification.
• Vehicle Title and Ownership: Handling the transfer of vehicle ownership through title transfers. Managing records related to vehicle titles and ownership.
• Vehicle Inspections: Overseeing vehicle inspection programs to ensure that vehicles meet safety and emissions standards. Inspecting salvage and rebuilt vehicles to verify roadworthiness.
• Specialty License Plates: Offering a variety of specialty license plates for personalization or to support specific causes and organizations.
• Online Services: Providing online services for tasks such as license and registration renewals, address changes, and more.
• Traffic Violations and Tickets: Managing traffic violation records and providing information on points accrued on driving records.
• Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL): Handling issuing and renewing commercial driver's licenses. Conducting tests and maintaining records related to commercial drivers.
• Driver Safety Programs: Driver safety programs and courses are offered to individuals with traffic violations or those seeking insurance discounts.

Resources for Car Drivers/Owners

Here are some key resources and considerations for federal law compliance and environmental quality for drivers in New York.

• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation(DEC): The DEC plays a role in enforcing environmental regulations within New York State. This includes air quality, water quality, and hazardous materials regulations.
• Federal Clean Air Act (CAA): The Clean Air Act sets federal air quality standards and regulates motor vehicle emissions. Understanding these standards is essential for compliance.
• New York State Vehicle Inspection: New York requires regular vehicle inspections to ensure it meets safety and emissions standards. Inspections cover various components, including brakes, lights, and emissions.
• Hazardous Materials Transportation: Compliance with the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) issued by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is essential for drivers transporting hazardous materials.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): The EPA regulates vehicle emissions and enforces environmental standards. Vehicle owners and operators should be aware of emission standards and compliance requirements.

Buying a Used Car in New York

Buyers in the market for used cars in New York should observe various rules and tips for a seamless transaction. Key aspects of consideration include:

New York Lemon Laws

New York Lemon Law protects used car buyers. The law protects used cars that meet the following conditions:

• It was used largely for personal purposes.
• It was bought or leased from a New York dealer.
• Had been driven for less than 100,000 miles at the time of purchase or leasing.
• It was bought, transferred, or leased after 18,000 miles in two years from the original delivery.
• The lease or price value was at least $1,500.

Title Transfer and Registration

Individuals must register and title the vehicle with the state DMV after purchase. Individuals must present a complete vehicle registration form and provide other documentation, such as proof of ownership, identity, and insurance.

Conducting a VIN Check

While it is not a legal requirement, the New York Department of Consumer and Worker Protection advises used car buyers to conduct a VIN check before purchasing.

Sales Tax

Car owners registering a vehicle in New York must either pay the sales tax, prove the vehicle is exempt from sales tax, or prove they paid it. In addition, individuals may need to pay county use tax during vehicle registration.

Reasons to Do a VIN Check in New York

Performing a VIN check in New York is necessary for the following reasons:

• Verify the Title: A VIN check can verify that the vehicle's VIN matches the information on the title and other documentation.
• Discover Accident History: VIN checks often include information about the vehicle's accident history.
• Salvage and Rebuilt Titles: VIN checks provide information about whether a vehicle has a salvage or rebuilt title. This indicates that the vehicle was damaged or reconstructed.
• Check if it is Stolen: A VIN check can reveal if a car was reported as stolen.
• As Part of the Inspection: Individuals looking to buy a used vehicle can use a VIN check for their pre-purchase inspection process.
• Loan Information: VIN checks can reveal whether there are any outstanding loans on the vehicle.

How to Lookup a VIN Number in New York

A New Yorker looking to buy a car can use some of these ways to look up its VIN:

VIN Replacement in New York

In New York, it is illegal for a person to possess a car with a destroyed, altered, defaced, concealed, or removed VIN. The state DMV does not provide a proper procedure for VIN replacement. However, car owners should contact their nearest DMV office for more information about replacement.

Conversely, the DMV does provide state-issued VINs to homemade trailers. To get the VIN, a person should:

• Provide proof of identification.
• Fill out the Vehicle Identification Number for Homemade Trailer Form - MV272.
• Have a weight slip to verify the trailer's unladen weight.
• Have a bill of sale for any parts used to make the trailer.

It is important to note that this procedure only applies to state-issued trailer VINs.

New Vehicle Registration in New York

The state requires owners to register any new vehicle within 180 days of getting an insurance policy. When buying a car from an auto dealer, the dealer will register and title the new car. However, if a resident buys the car from a private seller, the new owner will have to register it themselves.

The DMV is responsible for all vehicle registrations in the state. To register a car, people should provide the following:

• Certificate of Title for the car. If the car has more than one owner, all owners must sign the Vehicle Registration / Title Application (pdf) (MV-82).
• Proof of identity, either a valid driving license or identification card.
• Bill of sale.
• Lien release paperwork if a lien is on the car title.
• Proof of the unladen weight and the maximum weight of the car with all passengers and cargo (trucks, trailers, or commercial vans).
• Pay registration fees.
• All documents should have both the buyer's and seller's signatures.

How to Transfer VIN During a Sale in New York

The state DMV processes vehicle title transfers and issues new titles. The new owner will provide all vehicle information during the title transfer, including the VIN.

When transferring the title, New York residents should have:

• A complete and signed title certificate with both the buyer's and seller's signatures.
• A signed bill of sale.
• Poof of acceptance of ownership and transfer of ownership.
• Proof of payment of sales tax.
• Title transfer fee.

What Would a Vehicle History Report Include in New York

A vehicle history report in New York provides details about the car, such as title information, ownership history, odometer readings, and any reported accidents. It verifies the vehicle's VIN against official records, ensuring its legitimacy.

How Can I Find the VIN by License Plate?

New York residents can use third-party online providers to look up a car's VIN using its number plate.

Vehicle Inspections in New York

State laws require all registered vehicles to undergo a safety inspection once annually at DMV-licensed inspection stations. After the inspection, the cars must display a valid inspection sticker and be inspected for emissions.

What Does the Vehicle Inspection Report Include in New York?

A vehicle inspection report thoroughly examines various components in New York to ensure the vehicle meets safety and emissions standards. The report covers the following key aspects:

• Emissions Control Systems: Inspect the vehicle's emissions control systems to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and standards.
• Fuel System: Inspection of the fuel system to ensure proper functioning and compliance with safety and emissions standards.
• Brake System: Evaluation of the vehicle's braking system, including brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake lines, to ensure they meet safety standards.
• Steering and Suspension: Examination of the steering and suspension components to verify their integrity and compliance with safety regulations.
• Tires and Wheels: Inspection of tires for adequate tread depth, proper inflation, and overall condition. The wheels are also checked for alignment and safety.
• Lights and Indicators: This Verifies the functionality of headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and other lighting systems to ensure compliance with safety regulations.