World Manufacturer Identifier Code (WMI)

Every vehicle manufactured or sold in Canada has its own Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Prior to manufacturing a product/vehicle for on-road use, a World Manufacturer Identification Code (WMI) is required by the manufacturer

The manufacturer must first contact Transport Canada for an information package: which includes Motor Vehicle Safety Standard #115 (https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/acts-regulations/regulations-crc-c1038.htm), a WMI application and complete instructions.

The VIN is a 17 digit alphanumeric identifying code, SPECIFIC to each 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.

These procedures were developed to assist in identifying the vehicle as to its point of origin. Issuance of a WMI by a single organization will avoid duplication of manufacturer identifiers and assist in the identification of vehicles by agencies such as those concerned with motor vehicle titling and registration, law enforcement, and theft recovery.

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

The CVMA will process the application and the manufacturer will be issued a WMI code which they will include as 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.

CVMA

Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association
116 Albert Street, Suite 300
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada
K1P 5G3

Phone
416.364.9333

E-mail
info@cvma.ca

Transport Canada

Transport Canada
330 Sparks Street
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0N5

Phone
1.613.998.8616
1.800.333.0371

Fax
1.613.998.8541

Email
mvs-sa@tc.gc.ca

Website
www.tc.gc.ca