Buying a used car in the UAE? A chassis number check UAE (also known as a VIN number check UAE) is your first step to ensuring you’re making a safe and informed purchase. This guide covers everything from verifying a vehicle’s history online to understanding how it impacts car insurance.
What Is a Chassis Number (VIN) and Why Does It Matter?
In the UAE, as well as globally, a chassis number, commonly referred to as a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to each motor vehicle. The VIN is typically composed of 17 characters, which may include both numbers and letters.
Difference Between Chassis Number and VIN
The terms “chassis number” and “VIN” (Vehicle Identification Number) are often used interchangeably. Both refer to a unique 17-digit code assigned to every vehicle globally. This standardized system helps track a car’s history, specs, and legal status.
What Information Can You Get from It?
- Accident history: Check if the car was involved in major collisions.
- Car specs: Verify engine type, model year, and manufacturing details.
- Registration details: Confirm ownership history and UAE registration status.
- Theft records: Ensure the vehicle isn’t reported stolen.
Where to Find It on Your Car
The chassis number is stamped in multiple locations:
- Dashboard: Visible through the windshield on the driver’s side.
- Driver’s door frame: Printed on a metal or sticker label.
- Under the hood: Near the engine bay or firewall.

How to Do a Chassis Number Check in the UAE (Free and Paid Options)
Online Portals to Check VIN in the UAE
- Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG): Centralized platform for vehicle history reports.
- Abu Dhabi Police: Offers accident and theft checks via their website/app.
- Ministry of Interior (MOI): Use the MOI UAE app for quick VIN lookups.
- RTA Website/App: Dubai residents can access vehicle details and fines.
Which Sites Offer Free Checks
Basic accident history and registration status are often free on platforms like EVG and MOI. Full reports (e.g., service records, export history) may require payment (AED 50–150).
Step-by-Step Guide to Online VIN Lookup
- Visit the EVG portal or MOI app.
- Enter the 17-digit chassis number.
- Complete CAPTCHA verification.
- Download the PDF report or view details instantly.
Chassis Number Check in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Other Emirates
Dubai RTA VIN Services
Dubai’s RTA website provides a chassis number check online free for accident history and registration renewal status. Use the “Vehicle Details” service under the “Traffic” section.
Abu Dhabi Police Vehicle Check
Abu Dhabi residents can verify a car’s history via the police app or website. Reports include accident dates, repair costs, and insurance claims.
Sharjah & Northern Emirates
Visit local testing centers like Tasjeel or Shamil for in-person chassis number checks. Fees start at AED 30.
Common Issues Revealed by a VIN Number Check
- Rebuilt/salvaged cars: Vehicles repaired after severe damage.
- Odometer rollback: Fraudulent mileage adjustments.
- Non-GCC specs: Cars imported from non-Gulf regions may lack warranty coverage.
- Multiple ownership changes: Could indicate unresolved issues.
- Expired registration/fines: Avoid inheriting unpaid penalties.
Buying a Used Car in the UAE? Why a VIN Check Is Essential
A chassis number check UAE helps you:
- Avoid scams like tampered engines or cloned vehicles.
- Review past insurance claims for recurring damage.
- Confirm the car matches factory specs (e.g., GCC vs. non-GCC).
Read more: How GCC vs. Non-GCC Specs Affect Insurance
How Chassis Number Check Helps with Car Insurance UAE
Insurers often require a VIN report to:
- Verify the car’s legitimacy and accident history.
- Adjust premiums based on risk factors (e.g., prior major repairs).
- Confirm compliance with UAE safety standards.
Pro tip: Use a free chassis number check online free to compare quotes accurately. Learn how to buy insurance for used cars.
Final Thoughts
A chassis number check UAE takes minutes but saves you from costly mistakes. Whether you’re buying a used car or renewing car insurance UAE, always verify the VIN to ensure transparency and safety.
Frequently Answered Question
1. How to check car details with chassis number in UAE?
Yes! Limited reports (accidents, theft status) are free on platforms like EVG and MOI. Full reports with service history may cost AED 50–150.
2. How many digits is a VIN number?
All modern vehicles have a 17-digit VIN. Cars manufactured before 1981 may have shorter chassis numbers.
3. How to check accident history with chassis number?
Yes. Platforms like Abu Dhabi Police and RTA provide accident dates, severity, and repair details.
4. What if the number is not recognized?
Double-check for typos. If the issue persists, visit an RTA service center or testing agency for manual verification.
5. How to check car specs with chassis number?
Many online services allow you to input the entire 17-digit VIN, which yields detailed information about the vehicle’s make, model, engine specifications, and manufacturing details. You can also find specifics by using the first eight characters of the VIN, as well as characters 10 and 11, for more tailored queries through some commercial decoding options.