Plain-Language Summary

Pennsylvania law criminalizes the alteration, destruction, or falsification of vehicle identification numbers (VINs), classifying such acts as third-degree felonies with penalties up to seven years in prison and fines. It also addresses the sale or transfer of vehicles or parts with tampered VINs, emphasizing the importance of vehicle identification for law enforcement and theft prevention. Exceptions are provided for legitimate vehicle processing and repairs, under specific conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Altering, falsifying, destroying, or removing a vehicle identification number with the intent to conceal or misrepresent the vehicle's identity is a violation, classified as a third-degree felony.

Violators can face up to seven years in prison, a fine of up to $50,000, or both, depending on the severity of the offense.

Yes, legitimate vehicle processing by scrap processors and certain repairs that do not involve removing the VIN plate are exceptions under specific conditions.

No, selling or transferring a vehicle or part with knowledge of a tampered VIN is a felony, punishable by law. Proper identification must be maintained.