Look at more than one place
The official PPSR suggests looking in the engine bay, near the windscreen, in the driver’s door closure area or on registration paperwork. The location varies by vehicle. Most cars built after 1989 use a 17-character VIN.
Compare carefully
Read the full number on the actual vehicle and compare it with the registration papers and any report supplied by the seller. If two numbers do not agree, resolve the difference before you pay for a search or the vehicle.
Avoid a copy-and-paste mistake
A photo can help you check your transcription, but ensure it is clear enough to read every character. Do not infer hidden characters from an advertisement, use an engine number in place of the VIN or pad a shorter chassis number to make it fit.
On RegoLens, direct VIN entry requires 17 characters and excludes the letters I, O and Q. That format check catches some typing mistakes; it does not prove that the vehicle or seller is legitimate.
Older vehicles need the right search
If the identifier is a shorter chassis or manufacturer’s number, use the appropriate official PPSR search instead of forcing it into the RegoLens VIN form. Ask for help if you are unsure which identifier applies.
Sources and further reading
Official guidance can change. Check the linked source for current details.