Pennsylvania VIN Lookup

As of 2023, there were 1,654 used car dealerships in Pennsylvania, indicating the extensive availability of pre-owned vehicles in the Commonwealth. When purchasing a pre-owned car in the state, individuals should consider conducting a VIN check first. It is not a legal requirement, but it can help the buyer learn more about the vehicle's history, revealing any inconsistencies that may hinder purchase.

Most areas of the Keystone State have flat plains, making it ideal for using sedans and sports cars, especially in cities and towns. The state also has an abundance of trucks and four-wheel vehicles in hilly provinces like New England.

People contemplating buying used vehicles in Pennsylvania should always perform a VIN check to guarantee they are in flawless condition. Some private sellers and auto dealers may refuse to provide certain details, such as car crash reports, essential for ensuring the vehicle's safety. One way to carry out a VIN check is to request the information from PennDOT or the NHTSAdatabase. Additionally, a person can look up car details using free and paid VIN check services, like Infotracer.

VIN Verification

VIN verification is a process to ensure that a vehicle's VIN is legitimate and matches the information provided during registration. It is required in various situations, such as registering vehicles that came out of the state.

In Pennsylvania, VIN verification is required for the following reasons:

• When applying for the initial certificate of title for a truck, truck-tractor, or motor home, irrespective of the vehicle's previous ownership history.
• When a nonresident relocates to Pennsylvania and, as part of establishing residency, brings a vehicle into the Commonwealth state that was previously titled or registered in another state or country.
• When a resident of Pennsylvania purchases a new or pre-owned vehicle from a nonresident for use within the Commonwealth.

Only the following officials may conduct the VIN verification process in the commonwealth:

• A mechanic certified by a Pennsylvania inspection station.
• A notary public employed by either an individual to whom manufacturer or dealer registration plates have been issued under 75 Pa.C.S. §1335 (concerning registration plates for manufacturers and dealers) or an authorized full agent, as defined in Title 67, Chapter 43 (concerning temporary registration cards and plates).

If the vehicle is located outside of Pennsylvania, one of the following may conduct VIN verification:

• A law enforcement officer.
• A mechanic employed by a dealership.
• A provost marshal or motor officer at an armed forces installation.

Pennsylvania Car Ownership and Driving Information

Ownership Rate

89.3%

Registered Vehicles

2.1 per household

Low Car Ownership Rate

Compared to other states, Pennsylvania has a relatively low car ownership rate. 89.3% of all households report access to at least one vehicle, bringing the average number of vehicles per household to 2.1.

Miles Per Year

11,445

Average Annual Mileage

The average Pennsylvania driver has an average annual mileage of 11,445.

Popular Car

Honda CR-V

Popular Car Makes in Pennsylvania

The Honda CR-V is the most popular vehicle in the Commonwealth. Other popular cars in the commonwealth include the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Toyota Rav4, and Dodge Ram 1500.

Fatalities

1,179

Car Accidents

The rate of car accident fatalities decreased by 4% in 2022 to 1,179.

Crashes

26,848

Fatalities

404

Speeding Related Crashes

In 2022, Pennsylvania had 26,848 speed-related crashes, resulting in 404 fatalities.

Crashes

8,683

Fatalities

320

Alcohol-Impaired Driving

Alcohol-related fatalities in 2022 were 27% of all fatalities. There were 320 fatalities from 8,683 alcohol-related crashes.

Crashes

11,484

Fatalities

62

Distracted Driving

In 2022, the number of crashes involving a distracted driver in Pennsylvania was 11,484, resulting in 62 fatalities.

Crashes

11.6%

Teen Safety

Teen drivers (16 to 18) in the state were involved in 11.6% of crashes in 2022.

Pennsylvania DMV

Pennsylvania has the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), which has a Driver & Vehicle Services division offering motor vehicle and driver-related services. Some of the services they offer include:

• Driver's Licenses: PennDOT handles issuing and renewing driver's licenses. This includes obtaining a learner's permit, getting a driver's license, renewing licenses, and updating information.
• Vehicle Registration: PennDOT is responsible for vehicle registration, which involves registering new vehicles, renewing registrations, transferring vehicle ownership, and obtaining specialty or personalized license plates.
• Vehicle Titles: The department manages vehicle titles, including issuing new titles, transferring vehicle ownership, and correcting or replacing titles.
• Identification Cards: PennDOT issues identification cards for individuals who do not drive but need official identification.
• Vehicle Inspections: PennDOT oversees vehicle safety inspections, ensuring that vehicles meet safety standards.
• Driver and Vehicle Records: Individuals can obtain copies of their driving or vehicle records through PennDOT.
• Online Services: PennDOT provides various online services, allowing individuals to renew licenses, complete address changes, and perform other transactions online.
• REAL ID: Pennsylvania has implemented the REAL ID program to enhance the security of identification cards and driver's licenses. REAL ID-compliant cards are required for certain federal purposes.

Resources for Car Drivers/Owners

For drivers in Pennsylvania, compliance with federal laws and considerations for environmental quality are crucial. Here are some resources:

• Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP): VEIP ensures that vehicles comply with federal emissions standards. Drivers must ensure that their vehicles pass the emissions inspection as required by state law.
• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT): PennDOT ensures that Pennsylvania's transportation policies and practices comply with federal regulations. The PennDOT website provides drivers with resources, including information on driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and safety regulations.
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): The FMCSA sets and enforces safety regulations for commercial drivers, including hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and driver qualifications.
• Environmental Protection Agency(EPA): The agency establishes and enforces national standards for vehicle emissions to protect air quality. EPA also provides information on fuel efficiency standards for vehicles.

Buying a Used Car in Pennsylvania

Before individuals purchase a used car in Pennsylvania, they should understand the legal requirements of the purchase. Key considerations include:

Pennsylvania Lemon Laws

The Pennsylvania Automobile Lemon Law only covers new vehicles in the state. Therefore, used car buyers are not protected if they purchase a lemon. The law covers problems for new cars within the first 12 months or 12,000 miles of ownership.

Title Transfer and Registration

Buyers must title used vehicles. The dealer will complete the application if the purchase is from a used car dealership. However, if purchased from a private seller, the buyer must complete the application. Individuals must present several documents and an application form to title and register the car.

Conducting a VIN Check

Because the Commonwealth Lemon Law does not protect used cars, individuals must find ways to protect themselves. One way is by conducting a VIN check.

Sales Tax

Pennsylvania charges a 6% sales tax for vehicle purchases. Residents of Allegheny County pay 7%, and the city of Philadelphia charges 8%.

Reasons to Do a VIN Check in Pennsylvania

Conducting a VIN check in California is essential for several reasons:

• Historical Incident Verification: Use a VIN check to uncover any historical incidents associated with the vehicle, such as accidents, flood damage, or title discrepancies. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about purchasing a used vehicle.
• Odometer Fraud Prevention: VIN checks can help detect odometer fraud, ensuring the reported mileage is accurate. This is essential for assessing the vehicle's actual condition and avoiding potential future maintenance issues.
• Title Branding Awareness: Discover if the vehicle has a branded title, such as salvage or rebuilt. This information provides insights into the vehicle's past and helps buyers make informed decisions.
• Recall Information: A VIN check can reveal any outstanding recalls associated with the vehicle. This ensures that the necessary repairs or modifications have been addressed, promoting safety and compliance with manufacturer recommendations.
• Stolen Vehicle Identification: Use a VIN check to verify the vehicle's ownership status, including reports if it was stolen. This is crucial in preventing unwitting involvement in illegal activities and potential legal issues.

How to Lookup a VIN Number in Pennsylvania

Used car buyers can find a vehicle's VIN in Pennsylvania using the following resources:

VIN Replacement in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, car owners can obtain a VIN replacement for a damaged or replaced part that contains the vehicle's VIN. The PennDOT office assigns and issues replacement identification numbers in the state. It is vital to remember that if the car's VIN is suspected of being tampered with during inspection, the driver may face penalties.

If a person wishes to obtain a state-assigned vehicle or trailer identification number, Pennsylvania law requires do the following:

• Proof of vehicle ownership as a Certificate of Title.
• A Pennsylvania driver's license or identification card.
• Carry out a vehicle inspection and VIN verification.
• A completed application for Correction of Vehicle Record or Verification of Vehicle Identification Number - Form MV-41.
• VIN replacement fee.

It is important to note that only an authorized vehicle safety inspection mechanic or a notarized motor vehicle dealership agent can perform a VIN verification during a replacement.

New Vehicle Registration in Pennsylvania

The state mandates residents register new vehicles within 20 days of purchase. PennDOT is in charge of registering new autos in the state and offers registration services for vehicles with out-of-state registrations.

To register a new car in Pennsylvania, individuals must give the following information:

• Proof of ownership either as a Manufacturer Certificate of Origin (MCO), a Manufacturer Statement of Origin (MSO), or a Pennsylvania Certificate of Title—Form MV-1.
• Proof of identification either as a Pennsylvania driver's license or an identification card.
• Proof of Pennsylvania Insurance Liability.
• Complete Application for Certificate of Title.
• Registration fees.

How to Transfer VIN During a Sale in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania residents must transfer their certificate of title within 20 days of acquisition to avoid penalties. During the title transfer, the new owner receives the car's details, including the VIN.

The PennDOT handles title transfers for autos throughout the state. When requesting a title transfer, the new owner must present the following documents:

• Proof of ownership can be a Pennsylvania certificate of title, a Manufacturer Certificate/Statement of Origin (MCO or MSO), a certificate of salvage, an out-of-state certificate of title, or a court order.
• Bill of sale.
• Proof of identification like a state-issued identification card or driver's license.
• A completed odometer disclosure statement.
• Title transfer fee.

What Would a Vehicle History Report Include in Pennsylvania

This report typically includes details such as the vehicle's title and registration history, reported accidents and any resulting damage, odometer readings, and data on whether the vehicle has been reported stolen.

How Can I Find the VIN by License Plate?

Some third-party providers also offer license plate lookup services that reveal information about a vehicle, including the VIN.

Vehicle Inspections in Pennsylvania

Car owners in PA must have their vehicles inspected by a certified mechanic annually. This inspection ensures the safety of drivers and motorists.

What Does the Vehicle Inspection Report Include in Pennsylvania?

The report typically includes information about the vehicle's braking system, tires, lights, steering, suspension, exhaust system, and other critical components. In addition to safety features, the inspection covers emissions-related components to ensure compliance with environmental standards. The report may provide a summary of any defects or issues identified during the inspection, and it is crucial for determining whether a vehicle meets the necessary safety and emissions requirements for legal operation in Pennsylvania.