Texas Vehicle Identification Number
While a vehicle’s license plate identifies the car as belonging to a particular state, like Texas, vehicle identification numbers (VIN) go a step beyond this. This number is used to identify the manufacturer, model, and the year the car you own was produced. The data is consolidated by the DMV and is used to keep a track of the number of cars on the streets of a state at any given time. It is also used to identify the manufacturer of the car if the vehicle is implicated in a misdemeanor or criminal incident. If a car is stolen, the VIN is very important in locating and retrieving it.
By law across the United States, including Texas, vehicle identification numbers must be displayed in a prominent position on your car so that you or law enforcement has easy access to it. Normally, you will find the Texas vehicle identification number on the dashboard of the car – on the driver’s side, where the dashboard and windshield meet. Alternatively, it may be pasted as a sticker on the driver’s side door.
When purchasing a new or used car, it is important to state the vehicle identification number on all your documents and ensure that the sequence is consistent on all your records. If these records are inconsistent, you may be faced with criminal charges which may ever lead to your car being confiscated. Because the VIN is a means of identifying the manufacturer and model of the car, it can also be used to determine the true age of a car and help you avoid purchasing a ‘lemon’ – a car with defects that are concealed at the time of buying. Whether you are purchasing a new or a used car, it is a good idea to let the Texas DMV know of the vehicle identification number given to you to. This will ensure that the information you are being given is consistent and accurate.
Driving is a privilege and a responsibility. Making sure that your vehicle’s registration information is correct and updated regularly is also important in keeping your rights to drive in Texas, like all other states.
What information is covered in Texas DMV VIN number check for motorcycles?
A VIN check for a motorcycle will give information on the decoded VIN, manufacturer’s specifications and all the disclosed damage that the vehicle has suffered. It will also detect if the vehicle has a salvaged, rebuilt or damaged title. It will show the last recorded odometer reading along with the recall history.
While searching on VIN identification vehicle in Texas, I came across the Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority (ABTPA). Can you tell me more about it?
Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority (ABTPA) works to prevent auto vehicle theft and burglaries in the state of Texas. It does so by granting financial grants to different profit and non-profit organizations and state agencies in order to raise public awareness and preventive measures. These entities are required to maintain their credibility amongst the local communities.