Skip to main content
Arizona Automobile Theft Authority Logo
Arizona Automobile Theft Authority
  • Home
  • Watch Your Car Program
    • Watch Your Car
    • WYC Sign Up
  • Theft Prevention
    • Auto Theft At-A-Glance
    • Commonly Stolen Vehicles
    • Layered Approach
    • Motorcycle Theft Tips
    • Insurance Fraud
    • Myths & Realities
    • Vertical Prosecution
    • Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force
    • #ParkSmartAZ
    • #9PMROUTINEAZ
  • VIN Check
  • Block Watch
    • VIN Etching
    • Community Partnership
    • Youth Auto Theft Deterrent Programs
    • Coloring Pages
  • Grants
    • Grant Database Web-Portal
    • Law Enforcement Training
  • Insurance Co's
    • Statutory Authority
    • Insurance FAQ
    • OPTins
  • News & Events
    • Press Releases
    • Links
      • Arizona Police Departments and Marshal's Offices
      • Arizona Sheriff's Offices
      • Arizona County Attorney's Office
      • Arizona State Agencies
      • Automobile Theft Authorities, Councils, Associations
      • Law Enforcement Partner Links
    • AATA Events
  • About Us
    • AATA Staff
    • Five Year Agency Strategic Plan
    • Budget Submission
    • Annual Reports
    • Board Meetings
    • Board of Directors
    • FAQ
  • Home
  • Block Watch
  • VIN Etching

VIN Etching

  • VIN Etching
  • Community Partnership
  • Youth Auto Theft Deterrent Programs
  • Coloring Pages

What is VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) Etching?

VIN Etching is the process of permanently etching the vehicle’s 17 digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on each piece of window glass on the vehicle.

Why should you consider VIN Etching on your vehicle as a visual theft deterrent against auto theft?

Etching your vehicle’s VIN number serves as a permanent fingerprint of your vehicle. VIN etching is an effective visual deterrent against auto theft. When a vehicle is stolen, the thief must change the identity of the vehicle by changing the VIN identification plate on the dashboard. With a new VIN identification plate in place, he/she now has a new vehicle. BUT, with a vehicle that has its window glass VIN etched, the thief must replace and dispose of each piece of window glass, which drastically cuts into their profit margin. As a thief contemplates stealing your vehicle, they will notice the etching on the glass, and may move on to an unmarked vehicle.

Will it damage your vehicle or alter the appearance in any way?

No. The process only affects the outer most layer of the glass. This will in no way damage your windows or make them weaker. In addition, the VIN number etched on each piece of glass is only ¼” in height and approximately 2” in width. The numbering has a white color that can be seen within a few feet of your vehicle. Thieves and police officers know where to look for the etching, however, the casual passer-by will not notice.

How long does this process take?

It should only take 10 minutes per vehicle. The vehicle owner must show proof of vehicle ownership, current registration and complete a consent form provided by the hosting agency.

  • VIN Etching
  • Community Partnership
  • Youth Auto Theft Deterrent Programs
  • Coloring Pages

VIN Etching Photo Gallery

    • Window VIN Etching Process

    Window VIN Etching Process

    • Back Window VIN Etch

    Back Window VIN Etch 

    • VIN ETCHING LINE

    VIN ETCHING LINE

Arizona State Seal
Contact Us
Arizona Automobile Theft Authority
1110 W. Washington STE 105
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Find in Google Maps
Phone: 602-364-2886 or
1-888-668-4433
Map Image

Like Us On Facebook

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

Footer Nav

  • Statewide Policies
  • Site Map