Vehicles that require a VIN
Most vehicles require a VIN. It's the manufacturer's or importer's responsibility to ensure a new vehicle has a VIN. Some vehicles already have VINs assigned and attached overseas before they get to New Zealand. Otherwise, an entry certifier will issue and attach a New Zealand VIN at entry inspection.
Your vehicle may not need a VIN, if it has a frame or chassis number and:
- was first registered before 1 April 1994
- entered or was manufactured in New Zealand before 1 February 1994.
But, if the frame or chassis number has been removed, your vehicle must have a VIN. Only entry certification agents can allocate and fix VINs onto your vehicle.
Where to find the VIN on your vehicle
VINs can be:
- stamped into the vehicle structure (often the firewall) during manufacture
- stamped on a metal plate and fixed onto the vehicle body
- etched onto the rear window of the vehicle.
What to look for
Used import. NZTA assigned VIN prior to 29 November 2009
Used import. NZTA assigned VIN from 29 November 2009
Factory issued VIN for a truck
Factory issued VIN for a car
