How to get an official odometer reading

The most reliable way to get an official odometer reading is to obtain a state-recognized record through your motor vehicle agency (DMV) or a state-certified inspection station—typically via an Odometer Disclosure Statement at title transfer, a Vehicle Inspection Report from a safety/emissions inspection, or a certified vehicle record that shows the latest mileage on file. Below, we explain what “official” means, where to get it, and step-by-step paths depending on your situation.

What qualifies as an “official” odometer reading

In the United States, an official odometer reading is one that is created or recorded by a government authority (DMV or equivalent), or by a state-authorized inspection program, and is tied to the vehicle’s VIN. The primary legal instrument is the Odometer Disclosure Statement used at transfer of ownership under the federal Odometer Act (49 U.S.C. Chapter 327). Many states also capture odometer readings during annual safety/emissions inspections and store them in state databases. Records produced by these processes are the ones courts, insurers, lenders, and DMVs recognize as official.

Fastest places to obtain an official reading

Depending on why you need the reading—sale, refinancing, registration, court evidence, or mileage verification—these are the most direct sources recognized by authorities.

• DMV/title office: Odometer Disclosure Statement at title transfer (often on the back of the title or a secure state form; increasingly available electronically in e-title states).
• State safety/emissions inspection station: Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) that prints the odometer reading, date, and VIN; many states store this in their systems.
• DMV certified vehicle record: A certified title/vehicle history abstract showing the latest odometer reading filed with the state.
• VIN/odometer verification form: In some states, a VIN inspection form completed by DMV staff, law enforcement, or a licensed inspector includes the odometer reading.

These sources create a traceable, government-backed record. Dealer service invoices or commercial data reports (e.g., vehicle history services) can support your file but are not, by themselves, official.

Step-by-step: If you’re buying or selling a vehicle

When ownership changes, federal law requires a mileage disclosure for most vehicles. This is the most common path to an official reading.

1. Locate the odometer disclosure section on your title or obtain your state’s Odometer Disclosure Statement form (your DMV website will list the exact form; many states now support electronic submission).
2. With both buyer and seller present, record the current odometer reading exactly as shown, and indicate whether the reading is actual, exceeds mechanical limits, or not actual (if the cluster has been replaced or is known inaccurate).
3. Sign as required. Some states mandate notarization; others do not. Follow the title’s instructions.
4. File the title transfer with the DMV by the deadline. The disclosed mileage becomes the official record tied to the VIN.
5. Request a certified copy of the vehicle record (optional) to keep a state-sealed proof of the recorded mileage.

Completing the disclosure during transfer not only satisfies federal law but creates the clearest, most universally accepted official reading.

Step-by-step: If you already own the vehicle and need an official reading

If you’re not transferring ownership but need an official reading for a lender, court, relocation, or insurance, use an inspection or DMV verification path.

1. Schedule a state safety or emissions inspection (in states that require them). Ensure your VIN and mileage will be printed on the Vehicle Inspection Report.
2. At the inspection, confirm the VIN and mileage are captured correctly on the report; keep the printed VIR.
3. If your state doesn’t conduct inspections, ask your DMV for a VIN/odometer verification. Many offices or authorized agents can complete a verification form with the current mileage.
4. Request a certified vehicle record from the DMV after the inspection/verification to show the latest mileage on file, if needed for official correspondence.

The resulting VIR or DMV verification provides a dated, VIN-linked record commonly accepted by agencies and courts.

What documents are commonly accepted as “official” proof

These documents are widely recognized because they originate from government processes or state-authorized inspections.

• Odometer Disclosure Statement (part of a title transfer; paper or electronic)
• Vehicle Inspection Report (safety/emissions) showing VIN, date, and mileage
• DMV-certified vehicle record or title history abstract with last reported mileage
• VIN/odometer verification form completed by DMV, law enforcement, or licensed inspector

While acceptance can vary by purpose and jurisdiction, these records generally meet official standards because they are auditable and linked to state systems.

Key U.S. rules to know in 2025

Federal and state rules determine when and how odometer readings must be disclosed or recorded.

• Federal Odometer Act: Requires mileage disclosure at transfer of ownership with penalties for tampering and misrepresentation.
• 20-year disclosure rule: For transfers on or after Jan. 1, 2021, vehicles model year 2011 and newer require odometer disclosure for 20 years from model year (e.g., 2011 vehicles until 2031, 2012 until 2032, etc.). Older vehicles are typically exempt and will show “Exempt” on titles.
• Electronic disclosures: NHTSA permits secure electronic odometer disclosures; many states now offer e-title/e-notarization workflows.
• Repair/replacement labeling: If an odometer is repaired or replaced, federal regulations require a repair notice label on the vehicle and a statement of the prior reading; future disclosures must reflect that status.

These rules shape which vehicles require disclosures and how states accept and store readings today.

Special cases and international notes

Odometer repaired or replaced

Keep the shop’s certified repair statement and the required door jamb label noting the prior reading and date. Future official disclosures must indicate “not actual” or note the replacement per your state’s guidance. Having the documentation helps preserve mileage history.

Leases and fleets

Lease-end mileage statements and fleet management records can support mileage history, but if you need an official public record, obtain a DMV disclosure at transfer or a state inspection report.

Outside the United States

Terminology and processes vary. Many countries tie official readings to periodic roadworthiness/MOT/CT inspections or registration records. For an official proof, contact your national or provincial motor registry and ask for an inspection report or certified vehicle extract that includes the current or last recorded odometer reading.

What not to rely on as “official”

These can be useful supplements but typically are not accepted as official on their own.

• Dealer or independent service invoices
• Telematics screenshots or app logs
• Owner-kept mileage logs
• Commercial vehicle history reports (e.g., CARFAX, AutoCheck)
• Photographs without a corresponding state form or inspection

While helpful for due diligence, these sources don’t replace government-backed records for legal or administrative purposes.

What to bring when you seek an official reading

Bringing complete documentation speeds up inspections and verifications.

• Vehicle title or registration, and government-issued ID
• VIN and license plate numbers
• Proof of ownership or authorization (if acting for a company or another owner)
• Any repair/replacement odometer documentation
• Payment for fees (inspection, record request, notarization as applicable)

Having these on hand helps ensure your reading is recorded accurately the first time.

Costs and timing

Expect modest fees and quick turnaround for most options.

• State inspection: Typically $10–$70 depending on jurisdiction and type (emissions/safety); report printed immediately.
• DMV vehicle record (certified): Commonly $5–$25; available same day at counters or within days by mail/online.
• VIN/odometer verification: Often $10–$30; may be handled at DMV or by authorized agents.

Check your DMV website for exact fees and whether electronic records can be requested online.

Protecting yourself against odometer fraud

Official records also help detect tampering. Use them alongside common-sense checks.

• Compare the current reading with prior state inspection or title records for logical progression.
• Look for “Exempt,” “Not Actual,” or “Exceeds Mechanical Limits” flags on titles or disclosures.
• Check wear indicators (pedals, seats, steering wheel) against the stated mileage.
• Keep copies of all official documents tied to the VIN and dates.

A consistent chain of official records is the best defense against fraud and disputes.

Bottom line

To get an official odometer reading, use a state-backed process: complete an Odometer Disclosure Statement at title transfer, obtain a Vehicle Inspection Report from a state safety/emissions test, or request a certified vehicle record from your DMV. These create authoritative, VIN-linked documentation that lenders, courts, and agencies accept. When in doubt, contact your DMV and ask which form or inspection they recognize for an official mileage record in your state.