Common VIN locations
- On a metal VIN plate in the engine bay or under the bonnet.
- Stamped into the chassis, often visible at the base of the windscreen on the passenger side.
- On the driver's or passenger door pillar.
- On the V5C logbook (document reference).
Check for tampering
If the VIN plate looks disturbed, re-riveted or does not match the V5C, stop. A mismatched or altered VIN is a classic sign of a cloned or stolen vehicle.
Check a motorhome before you buy
Enter the registration for a free summary. Full history check £4.99.
Added 15 September 2026. If you are converting a van, DVLA wants a photograph of the VIN plate with your motor caravan application: see DVLA campervan conversion reclassification. Other identity and paperwork questions are in the motorhome and caravan FAQ.