Motorists need a VIN when they register a vehicle for the first time in the state. Conducting a VIN number lookup in Rhode Island ensures that the title is clear for registering under the applicant’s name. These checks must be performed by the local police department. Vehicle history reports, which are not available through the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), are vital for used car shoppers.

A VIN report contains detailed information about various traceable events involving the vehicle. For titling purposes, the RI DMV can lookup VIN numbers to return title information about a vehicle. Motorists must make their request for this type of vehicle record by mail or in person.

How to Conduct a Rhode Island VIN Number Lookup Online

When you order a VIN history report, you get immediate access to a full array of records on the vehicle. Information from multiple sources includes the following:

• S. Department of Justice
• State and municipal law enforcement agencies
• DMV offices
• Commercial dealerships and manufacturers

The data from this online source is available real-time, so the RI VIN report you receive will have the most recent and most up-to-date information on your vehicle. To receive a comprehensive vehicle history, all you need is the VIN. Any public records available will be provided.

Rhode Island residents with log-in credentials may request a vehicle records title search through the RI DMV website. This report will include any title information on record at the Rhode Island DMV.

How to Request a Rhode Island VIN Code Lookup in Person

A request for a VIN number check is available at any DMV office.  Rhode Island residents who need to register a vehicle for the first time in the state must have a title search ran on the vehicle before a valid registration can be issued. A title inspection by a local police department is also required. To request a copy of a title record via VIN code lookup, residents must complete the request form.

The form is available for download online or can be picked up in person at a branch location. Submit the form along with the appropriate payment for the applicable fee to any DMV office. You must provide a mailing address for the results of the search to be mailed to you.

This is not an instant search, and the request will be sent to the DMV Research Title Office in Cranston, Rhode Island. Petitioners of this request must allow ample time for the DMV to compile the report and mail the results.

How to Request a Rhode Island VIN Lookup by Mail

Residents who prefer to make their VIN code lookup request by mail are encouraged to do so. First, petitioners must obtain the request form. Then, they must fill out the form with their mailing address, vehicle identification number and vehicle owner information. The form and appropriate payment must be mailed to the address provided on the application form.

The information available from this VIN number check in Rhode Island is limited to title history information within the state.

What info is in a Rhode Island VIN history report?

A VIN code lookup through the state of Rhode Island will contain only title history information recorded by and on file with the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles.

Checking VIN numbers in RI provides instant and up-to-date information about the vehicle including the following:

• Manufacturer’s original sticker
• Manufacturer’s original vehicle specification
• Manufacturer recall and safety bulletins
• DMV title history
• Insurance total loss, severe accident and flood events
• Lien information on current or open liens
• Safety recall information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA)
• Odometer readings from multiple sources
• Impound and towing events
• DMV and state agency reports on minor accident events
• Active theft status

Why would I need to perform a VIN check in Rhode Island?

VIN history reports are crucial for auto shoppers considering a previously owned car. Without the information provided in a comprehensive record search, you could purchase a vehicle with troublesome issues. Even reputable resellers could miss important information. By checking VIN numbers in advance, you can avoid issues with titling, lien and ownership as well as problematic repairs and maintenance.

A Rhode Island VIN number check can help you sell your used car as well. Providing your potential buyer a full history of the vehicle will give the buyer confidence to make a positive purchase decision. Plus, the manufacturer specification information can help you create an accurate and robust listing for the car.

How do I locate my vehicle’s VIN number?

VIN numbers are unique codes, made up of 17 characters that help identify a specific vehicle. The VIN code lookup system was adopted to help prevent theft, protect consumers and keep track of ownership. The sequence is stamped or engraved in several different areas on a car. Some of the places you can find a vehicle identification number include the following:

• Dashboard near the windshield
• Inside the driver’s side door
• Passenger side post
• Front of engine
• Steering column
• Firewall
• Radiator support bracket

You can also find the VIN printed in some of the vehicle documentation such as the maintenance book and window sticker. If you are a resident of Rhode Island and you are considering the purchase of a previously owned vehicle, be sure to get a full VIN history report first. It will help you avoid any issues with registering your vehicle and ensure that you buy a car in good condition and in good standing.

Vehicle History Report Fees in Rhode Island

You must pay a $51.50 fee for a vehicle history report in Rhode Island.