The owner of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer on which the engine, serial, or other identification number has become illegible or has been removed or obliterated shall immediately apply to the Department for a new identification number for such motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer. The Department, when satisfied that the applicant is the lawful owner or possessor of the motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer may assign a new identification number and shall require that such number, together with the name of the Commonwealth or a symbol indicating the Commonwealth and the date of such assignment, be stamped, inscribed or affixed upon such portion of the motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer as shall be designated by the Department. Whenever a new identification number has been assigned to and stamped, inscribed or affixed on a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer as provided in this section, the Department shall insert the number on the registration card and certificate of title or salvage/nonrepairable certificate issued the motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer.

History

Code 1950, § 46-6; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-4; 1989, c. 727; 1996, cc. 591, 917.