World Manufacturer Identifier Code

Every vehicle manufactured or sold in Canada has its own vehicle identification number (VIN).

The VIN is a 17 digit alphanumeric identifying code SPECIFIC to the vehicle. It is a vehicle’s fingerprint and helps to protect consumers by ensuring that all vehicles are manufactured in compliance with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Act.

In the event of theft, the VIN can assist authorities by enabling the verification of the manufacturer and provides a method to trace the vehicle.

Prior to manufacturing a product/vehicle for on-road use, a World Manufacturer Identification Code (WMI) is required by Transport Canada to compose a VIN. Please contact Transport Canada for an information package: which includes Motor Vehicle Safety Standard #115, a WMI application and complete instructions.

Regular mail
Transport Canada
330 Sparks Street
Tower C - 8th Floor
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0N5

Phone
613.998.2337

Web site
www.tc.gc.ca

Completed applications should be returned to the same address (above).

After compliance with the Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, Transport Canada will issue the manufacturer a National Safety Mark (NSM), and will also authorize the CVMA to issue a World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) code.

The CVMA will proceed to issue a WMI code which is part of the 17 alphanumeric digit VIN.

Any changes occurring with the manufacturer must be reported to the CVMA immediately in writing, fax or email.

Regular mail
Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association
170 Attwell Drive
Suite 400
Toronto, Ontario
M9W 5Z5

Phone
416.364.9333

Fax
416.367.3221

E-mail
info@cvma.ca