Use of vehicle identification numbers in applications - rules

(1) (a) A person required to apply for a certificate of title or registration of a motor vehicle shall use the identification number placed upon the motor vehicle by the manufacturer or the special vehicle identification number assigned to the motor vehicle by the department pursuant to section 42-12-202. The department shall not issue a certificate of title or registration card unless it uses the identification number of the motor vehicle. (b) A person required to apply for a certificate of title for an off-highway vehicle shall use the identification number placed upon the vehicle by the manufacturer or the special vehicle identification number assigned to the off-highway vehicle by the department. The department shall not issue a certificate of title unless it uses the identification number of the off-highway vehicle; except that, if the vehicle does not have a conforming identification number or is a duplicate, the department shall assign a special identification number for the certificate of title and require the owner to place the number on the vehicle. (2) The identification number provided for in this section shall be accepted in lieu of any motor number or serial number provided for in this title. (3) (a) After receiving an application for a certificate of title, the department or its authorized agent shall electronically verify with the department of public safety that the motor vehicle has not been reported stolen. The department shall not register a motor vehicle reported stolen in the system until the vehicle is recovered by the owner. (b) The department shall promulgate rules setting forth procedures to notify the local law enforcement agency upon discovery that a person is attempting to obtain a certificate of title for a stolen motor vehicle. (c) This subsection (3) is effective July 1, 2009.