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Here’s a question that’s going to sound sketchy, but it’s not. I have a 71 corvette. I have my vin number, but the vin plate located on the driver side body hinge pillar has been misplaced during the restoration. Does the DMV replace those?
OK that's different.
Best case
The DMV will (should) have a way of re-registering a car once you have proof of ownership etc. The vin is also stamped in a couple of other places on the frame that MIGHT be still visible (not usually but maybe)
I don't know what they do about the missing tag, no reputable place will make a reproduction tag but for home built cars (like street rods) you make your own tag and affix it to the car and that's what the DMV uses. Again there's a signed proof of ownership.
Anyway, politely ask your state/town dmv what the processed is. There should be one.
Worst case... you'll be looking for a set of tags and ownership from a carcass somewhere. Won't be the first, won't be the last
M
There are FEDERAL laws to strongly discourage illicit tampering with VIN tags, in addition to State laws. Be fully informed when undertaking any efforts to address this or you risk getting tossed in the slammer.
Is the reason the tag got removed was rust repair on the A pillar?
You should be able to find the last 8 digits stamped on the top of the frame by the #4 mount. There is another place it is stamped (approximately in line with the back of the seats) but that one is harder to gain access to.
Some states will issue a salvage title and provide a state-issued tag it those tags are usually riveted to the cowl.
The problem you face is that absent the original VIN tag, properly affixed, you may be faced with a $10k hit to your car’s value as any buyer will not want to pay full retail on a car like that. You may need to have a candid discussion with your restoration shop (unless you did this yourself) to see if anything can be worked out.
My 1978 C3 had been in a serious accident years before I got it. The left front was smashed up pretty good and the corner of the windshield frame where the vin was stamped was destroyed. The State of Alabama riveted a new VIN tag to the driver side door frame, under the door striker. The new windshield frame section was installed and the pad where the vin goes is blank. Before I bought the car ( for about $1000) I checked the listed vin with the SC State Police. They ran it and everything was clean. Not a salvage title either. I then ran it through Alabama and they came back with the same story. So it might be possible to get a duplicate, depending upon the state you're in. But I don't think it will be easy. especially if they try and give you a salvage title. Good luck.
Vin plate
