> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dubs-docs.gitbook.io/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dubs-docs.gitbook.io/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/5-vehicular-offenses/5-8-tampering-with-vehicle-identification-number-vin.md).

# \[5] 8 - Tampering With Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

**Offense Classification:** **Felony**

***

#### **Definition:**

Tampering With a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) occurs when an individual **alters, removes, defaces, or replaces a VIN** for the purpose of concealing a vehicle’s identity, avoiding detection, or committing fraud. This offense is often associated with stolen vehicles, insurance scams, or registration fraud.

***

#### **Elements of the Crime:**

* The individual **intentionally altered, removed, or obscured** a VIN on a motor vehicle.
* The action was taken to **conceal the true identity of the vehicle** or to mislead law enforcement or regulatory authorities.
* The vehicle was **operated, transferred, or stored** with the tampered VIN.
* The tampering was **done knowingly and without legal justification** (e.g., not during a restoration with proper reporting).

***

#### **Penalties:**

**Felony:**

* **Jail Time:** 2 to 7 years
* **Fine:** Up to $20,000
* **License Suspension:** Up to 3 years

**Additional Consequences:**

* **Vehicle seizure and forfeiture**
* **Investigation into broader fraud or theft activity**
* **Restitution for any financial loss incurred by third parties**

***

#### **Related Charges:**

[**\[5\] 7 - Operating a Vehicle With Stolen Plates**](/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/5-vehicular-offenses/5-7-operating-a-vehicle-with-stolen-plates.md) *(Commonly associated with VIN tampering)*\
[**\[5\] 9 - Swapping License Plates**](/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/5-vehicular-offenses/5-9-swapping-license-plates.md) *(Used to support vehicle identity fraud)*\
[**\[5\] 14 - Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle**](/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/5-vehicular-offenses/5-14-unauthorized-use-of-a-motor-vehicle.md) *(If vehicle was also used without permission)*\
[**\[4\] 10 - Forgery**](/tbd-rp-department-of-justice-legal-code/unified-code-of-laws/title-6-penal-code/4-financial-and-white-collar-crimes/4-9-forgery.md) *(If documents such as titles or registrations were also falsified)*


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