VIN vs. Rego: What’s the Difference and Why They Both Matter for Vehicle History Reports?

Introduction

When researching a used vehicle, the terms ‘VIN check’ and ‘Rego check’ are often used interchangeably. But did you know they reveal different—and equally important—information about a car’s history? Understanding the distinction between these checks is essential for making a safe, informed purchase. Here’s how you can use both to your advantage, and why MyCarHistoryPPSR makes the process seamless.

What is a VIN?

The VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number, is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle. A VIN check reveals:

  • The manufacturer, make, and model details.
  • Build year and country of origin.
  • Records of theft, write-off status, and data from the national register.

What is a Rego (Registration) Check?

A Rego check confirms the current registration status of the vehicle in its state or territory, including:

  • Is the registration active or expired?
  • The registration expiry date.
  • Registered owner details (in states where permitted).
  • Whether the car’s plates match its VIN.

Why Both are Crucial for a Comprehensive Vehicle History

  • VIN checks show deep historical and legal records—including write-off, theft, and encumbrance details.
  • Rego checks give you a snapshot of current legal status and roadworthiness.

Skipping either check could mean missing critical information that exposes you to risk.

How MyCarHistoryPPSR Combines Both

Our platform integrates data from both VIN and registration records into a single, streamlined report—so you get the full picture and complete peace of mind, without juggling multiple sources.