Vehicle Identification: What You Need to Know
Introduction
When buying a used vehicle, many questions come to mind, especially regarding the identification of the vehicle. What is the purpose of vehicle identification? How is it done? What is the VIN, and when is it required? In this article, we will answer these questions to shed light on this often-misunderstood process.
What is Vehicle Identification?
Vehicle identification is an operation that verifies the vehicle's manufacturer's plate and registration plate conform to the data on the registration certificate (also known as the "carte grise"). The term "carte grise" originates from the fact that this document was once gray in color.
The Manufacturer's Plate and VIN
Every vehicle has a manufacturer's plate, usually located near the engine, which contains information about the vehicle and its manufacturer. In addition to the manufacturer's plate, each vehicle has a unique 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which contains all the relevant information about the vehicle. The VIN is an international code unique to each vehicle worldwide. The VIN is composed of the following sequence: ABC DEF GHI JKL MNOPK.
Decoding the VIN
The decoding of the VIN for each vehicle is contained in a restricted document held by the authority responsible for identification operations, the Land Transport Technical Agency (A3T).
When is Vehicle Identification Required?
Any operation on the registration certificate (change, renewal, change of ownership, etc.) requires a certificate of identification (also known as "annexe 5") issued by the relevant authority. The most frequent and delicate operation that requires an annexe 5 is the sale of a used vehicle from one individual to another. Other operations that require identification include the renewal of the registration certificate, which involves replacing the old registration certificate with a new one (in the form of a bank card). Note that this renewal operation is not mandatory unless the old registration certificate is damaged.
Where to Get Vehicle Identification Done
Finally, it is useful to remind readers that vehicle identification can be done by anyone (vehicle owner or driver) without a prior appointment at one of the thirty centers dedicated to this purpose, located throughout the country and under the supervision of the Land Transport Technical Agency (A3T).
Conclusion
In conclusion, buyers of used vehicles should not forget to request their annexe 5 before any transaction. By understanding the vehicle identification process, buyers can ensure a smooth and secure transaction.
Author: Firas BEN ATTIA
