How to Cover VIN Number (Without Breaking Any Rules)
Your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is like its fingerprint. It’s a 17-digit code that gives information about your car’s make, model, year, and more. But did you know that leaving your VIN exposed – especially in public places or online – can be risky? If you’re wondering how to cover your VIN number the right way, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll explain why you might want to cover your VIN number, when it’s okay to do so, and safe methods to protect it without causing trouble.
Why Would You Want to Cover Your VIN Number?
There are a few valid reasons why someone may want to hide or cover their VIN:
- To prevent identity theft or VIN cloning: Criminals can use your VIN to create fake registrations or sell stolen cars.
- For online privacy: When posting your car for sale online, displaying your full VIN can invite fraud.
- To block prying eyes in public: Some people simply don’t want strangers scanning their car’s details through the windshield.
That said, you must always follow local laws. In many countries and U.S. states, it’s illegal to cover or alter the VIN while the car is being driven on public roads.
When Is It Legal to Cover Your VIN?
Covering your VIN is only acceptable when your car is parked on private property or when sharing photos online.
It is not legal to:
- Drive a vehicle with a covered or removed VIN plate.
- Tamper with or alter the VIN in any way.
- Replace the original VIN plate with a fake one.
Always double-check your local state or country regulations to avoid fines or legal trouble.
How to Cover VIN Number Safely (Step-by-Step)
If you’re covering your VIN for online photos or when your car is parked in your driveway, here are safe and easy ways to do it:
1. Use a Magnetic Cover or Shade
Buy a magnetic VIN blocker that sticks right over the VIN area on your windshield. These are removable and won’t damage the glass.
- Easy to apply and remove.
- Reusable and weather-resistant.
- Great for long-term protection while parked.
2. Apply a Tinted Windshield Sunshade
A simple sunshade not only protects your car interior from sunlight but can also block the VIN when parked.
- Affordable and multipurpose.
- Blocks visibility from outside.
- Ideal for daily use.
3. Cover the VIN in Online Images
When posting car photos for sale or insurance purposes, blur or black out the VIN using a photo editing tool.
- Keep the full VIN private.
- Still allows buyers or insurers to request it directly.
- Prevents unauthorized cloning.
4. Use a Custom Dashboard Cover
If your car’s VIN is visible through the dashboard near the windshield, a soft dashboard cover may help obscure it when parked.
- Adds interior protection.
- Discreetly covers VIN from certain angles.
- Must be removable to avoid legal issues when driving.
What to Avoid When Covering VIN
- Don’t use tape or stickers on the VIN plate directly. It may leave residue or look suspicious to authorities.
- Don’t scratch, remove, or alter the VIN plate. That’s a serious offense.
- Don’t forget to uncover it before driving. Law enforcement has the right to check your VIN at any time.
Final Thoughts
Covering your VIN number can be a smart move when you want to protect your car’s identity – especially online or when parked for long periods. Just make sure you’re doing it legally and responsibly. Use removable covers, dashboard shades, or simple editing tools when sharing photos online.
Remember, your VIN tells the world everything about your vehicle. Keep it safe, and you’ll keep your car – and your identity – more secure.
