How to Become a California Vehicle Verifier
SuretyBonds.com does not oversee licensing for vehicle verifiers. Contact the California Department of Motor Vehicles for the latest official requirements.
How to Become a California Vehicle Verifier
In California, vehicle verifiers need to get a special permit from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you’re interested in becoming a VIN verifier, read on for information on the application process and requirements.
What Does a VIN Verifier Do?
A California vehicle verifier physically inspects vehicles to confirm they have accurate VINs and documentation.
Once licensed, you will be able to verify nonresident vehicles and vehicles or trailers without a California record, with the exception of used motorcycles. Any other types of vehicle verifications will be completed by CA Highway Patrol or DMV employees.
You’ll complete the Verification of Vehicle (Form REG 31) on behalf of your clients. This form is available on the CA DMV website or at your local field office.
How to Apply for a California VIN Verifier Permit
It only takes four steps to apply for your vehicle verifier permit with the California DMV. We’ll outline each step in detail below.
Step 1: Complete the application & questionnaire
First, fill out the California vehicle verifier application and personal history questionnaire. You’ll need to include your California Driver License number, SSN, and employer firm’s license number.
Then, complete the next few steps to gather the other required documents.
Step 2: Complete Live Scan background check
Next, visit the California DMV Live Scan website and schedule your fingerprinting appointment. Bring a request for Live Scan service form and $32 to pay the DOJ criminal record check fee. You can check your status in the Live Scan portal.
The Department may not issue a license to applicants with criminal convictions or who have had a prior license revoked or suspended.
Step 3: Get a $5,000 surety bond
Vehicle verifiers must purchase and maintain a $5,000 surety bond. Visit our California vehicle verifier bond page to get your bond in minutes with instant email delivery.
Make sure the name on the bond matches your name on the application form exactly. The bond is not required if you are a government agency employee.
Alternatively, you can provide a $5,000 certificate of deposit (CD) or $5,000 in a passbook account. However, with a surety bond you only pay a $100 premium, so this is typically the preferred method.
Step 4: Mail documents and fees to DMV
Finally, gather all of your application materials:
- $52 application fee
- Application form
- Personal history questionnaire
- $5,000 surety bond form
Then, mail this packet to the California DMV at the address below:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Occupational Licensing
Individuals Unit
P.O. Box 932342 L224
Sacramento, CA 94232-3420
How to Renew Your VIN Verifier Permit
Your permit will be valid for two full years after the date of issue. The permit renewal process is very simple for California vehicle verifiers. Just complete these three steps:
- Renew your surety bond
- Complete the renewal application form (OL 19)
- Pay the $16 renewal fee
Mail these three items to the California DMV.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Vehicle Verifier License in California?
Between the application fee, background check, and surety bond, it costs $183 to become a licensed vehicle verifier in California.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $51 |
| Background Check | $32 |
| Surety Bond | $100 |
Who Is Exempt From Vehicle Verifier Permitting?
If you fall under one the following categories, you are exempt from the California vehicle verifier permit requirement:
- Peace officers
- Authorized DMV employees
- Special agents of the National Auto Theft Bureau
- Employees of certified organizations whose duties require or authorize vehicle verification
How Long Does It Take?
California vehicle verifier license applications take up to 120 days to review and process.
Requirements for Licensed VIN Verifiers
Once you receive your license, you must maintain thorough verification records and complete verifications per state code. Records should include the following information:
- Name and address of the client
- Fee charged
- Vehicle year model, VIN, license plate number and last-registered state
You’ll need to offer these records for inspection by the state if requested.
How Do Surety Bond Claims Work?
When you sign a California vehicle verifier bond form, you promise to uphold state laws, rules and regulations. If you break those terms, you are financially liable under the bond to repay any harm caused.
Last Updated: February 27, 2026
