Every vehicle in New Hampshire has a vehicle identification number, or VIN, which, when checked, provides a detailed history of that vehicle within Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) records. The VIN number is generally an 11- to 17-digit sequence of letters and numbers that acts as a unique serial code. There are different ways to order a vehicle history report in New Hampshire, with the most common being online.

Before ordering a VIN number lookup, the buyer or seller will first need to locate where the serial number is on the vehicle. Additionally, knowing the type of information that the serial number will provide can be important in deciding what circumstances warrants the search. In order to learn more about the ways a vehicle’s history can be searched in New Hampshire, review the sections below.

Ordering an Online VIN Lookup in New Hampshire

The easiest method for ordering a VIN code lookup is online. While not always the case, the online VIN number check has recently developed over the years, becoming the most popular choice amongst car buyers and sellers. The reason why the online vehicle history check is popular is because it is the fastest method to retrieve an automobile’s history.

Rather than having to submit paperwork or wait in line at the DMV, a vehicle identification report can be requested online with just a few clicks of the mouse. The process to lookup VIN history online requires just a few pieces of important information, such as the VIN number, itself, and payment of any required fees. Then, once the motor vehicle record is found, it will be instantly delivered to the driver who is requesting the report.

Looking Up VIN Number Information by Mail in New Hampshire

A VIN code lookup in New Hampshire can also be completed by mail, however, the information will not be as comprehensive as when ordering online. For instance, ordering a VIN history online will provide all the necessary information related to the history for one small fee. Ordering a vehicle history check through the Department of Motor Vehicles requires individual fees for each piece of information, which must be ordered separately. The information required to be ordered separately, includes the following:

• Title history
• Car registration information
• Bill of sale
• Tickets
• Suspensions
• Accident reports

Meanwhile, ordering the VIN report online provides everything together. For those interested in ordering by mail, the Release of Motor Vehicle Records will need to be completed in entirety and signed. A payment must accompany the forms, with checks made payable to “State of NH – DMV.” This method of looking VIN record history up is not common, simply because of the time it takes to prepare the documents, mail them in and wait for the records to arrive.

How to Check VIN Number Details in New Hampshire at the DMV

Similar to the steps mentioned above for mailing a request to the New Hampshire DMV, a buyer or seller can also visit the local DMV. Forms will still need to be filled out accordingly, and, in addition, a photo identification that has not been expired for more than three years must also be provided. A driver requesting the VIN number check will need to find the local DMV and verify that the location accepts a vehicle history record check. While this may seem like an easy approach, there are still issues with visiting the local DMV, such as long wait times and hours that tend to contradict most drivers’ workday schedules.

What info is in a New Hampshire VIN history report?

A VIN number report in New Hampshire will contain a variety of information dating back years, to the beginning of the manufacture date for the vehicle. The information that can be found by checking the VIN number includes:

• Vehicle information
• Safety reports
• Recalls
• Title information
• Lien information (if applicable)
• Registration information
• Odometer recordings
• Salvage titles
• Sales history
• Accident history
• Towing and impounds

Why would I need to perform a VIN check in New Hampshire?

Performing a VIN check in New Hampshire is common when a vehicle is switching ownership. When a buyer is looking to purchase a used vehicle from a private seller, he or she will often use a VIN code lookup in order to verify that the value of the car matches the price being paid. Since a vehicle is one of the most expensive consumer goods on the market, it is only right that a buyer receives peace of mind knowing that the value and price being paid correspond.

A seller, too, can use the vehicle history check in order to show a buyer that there is nothing to hide with the vehicle. It is always best practice for a seller to disclose as much information about a vehicle’s history as possible. This can ensure a smooth and honest transaction. Providing a VIN history verification in advance can also help lead to a quicker sale.

How do I locate my vehicle’s VIN number?

Before a driver can check a VIN number in New Hampshire, he or she must first locate the serial number on the vehicle. The most common places where a vehicle’s serial code can be found are both inside and outside of the vehicle, and include the following locations:

• The vehicle’s title paperwork
• The vehicle’s registration documentation
• The vehicle’s auto insurance card
• Inside the driver’s door, on a sticker or metal plate within the trim
• The bottom of the windshield or dash on the driver’s side of the vehicle

Vehicle History Report Fees in New Hampshire

The standard fee for a vehicle report in New Hampshire is $15.