A vehicle identification number (VIN) is an unambiguous, globally unique vehicle identifier. The paper describes principles for its location on a vehicle, the method of its making (manufacture) and, last but not least, types of protection against negative factors to ensure that its identification value is preserved and, simultaneously, the process of identification inspection of a vehicle is clear, fast and efficient. The text analyses various views on VINs from the point of view of vehicle manufacturers, administrative bodies (that use vehicle identification in nationwide vehicle registers) and law-enforcement bodies during the investigation and gathering of evidence of car crime.