as an FYI.. As long as it is NOT a trailer under 6,001 pounds, ANY peace officer in CA trained in VIN id, like many detectives, can do this. The PD's often charge too. Also, the CHP has a VIN inspection program. that is done an certain stations, and needs an appointment well in advance. Also the CA DMV will inspect as long as it is not the trailer described above. And as you noted, a licensed VIN verifyer can do the same as the DMV, trailers as noted excepted.