2004 VIN plate locations?

[ath42]

I live in PA, and bought a 2004 EB Expedition from a private seller in another state. I want to get plates from PA before I go pick the truck up to drive it back. PA has a strange VIN verification rule. If you do not have the car so that they can look at the VIN to see that it matches the title, then they want a pencil tracing/rubbing of the VIN before they will issue plates.

You cannot reach the VIN on the dash with a piece of paper and a pencil. Does anyone know where else there is a VIN plate with raised letters that is easily accessiblye so I can tell the seller where to look? The sticker on the driver door jamb doesn't work because it does not have raised letters.

thanks.

 

[Adieu]

3rd-worst state in the union, 'nuff said

 

[Plati]

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct...vinverif.pdf&usg=AOvVaw18qfU4LSNysmHvAHAjG0iv

 

[Bain64]

Looking at the link MrSticker provided, it looks like a mechanic employed by a dealer or a police officer can verify the VIN. Maybe the dealership would do it for free, I've read that others have had success with that route.

 

[ath42]

Thanks, I had found that document. I have not found anything that says *how* a mechanic or a police officer can verify the VIN. Fill out a form? Which form?
That document also mentions that a photograph can be used, but neither of two title agents I've spoken to think that a photograph is acceptable.

 

[Plati]

how about this?
http://www.dot.state.pa.us/public/dvspubsforms/BMV/BMV Forms/MV-41.pdf

you must have found this also
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct.../fs-toos.pdf&usg=AOvVaw2uQ5ZN-2pVFf2SfKLIq42m

If it works like it does in NYS, the process is as follows
1) go to DMV with all required paperwork
2) stand in line
3) get refused & sent away
4) return with something different
5) get approved

 

[ath42]

Thanks, MrSticker, I had seen the other "fact sheet" but failed reading comprehension. I was focused on the VIN tracing because the first title agent I spoke to did not mention any other way. I have found another title agent who admits to accepting an out of state police officers signature on the MV-41, we'll see how that works.

 

[ath42]

Just for someone else who finds this thread via google:
We got the MV-41 signed by a police officer in the state where the truck is located. With the title (signed by the seller), bill of sale, proof of insurance and MV-41, Brimmer's title agency gave us PA plates without a problem.

 

[Bain64]

Great follow up ath42. Enjoy the Expy!

 

[Plati]

Yes, thanks for the follow-up.
Surprised your "first born" wasn't requested!