World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) Code Registration in India – A Complete Guide by Do Startup
A WMI Code is the first three characters of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that uniquely identifies a vehicle manufacturer worldwide. In India, WMI Codes are issued by BIS in coordination with SAE International.
10+ Years of Experience
400+ In-House CAs, CS & Lawyers
99% SLA Delivery
10,000+ Pin codes Network in India
100000+
Happy Customers
3500+
Expert Advisors
50+
Branch Offices
Free Consultation by Expert
Rated 4.9 by 42,817+ Customers
Talk to an Expert
Get personalized guidance from our industry specialists
Enquiry Form
Among Asia Top 100 Consulting Firm
Get Consultation
Lowest Fees 100,000+ Clients
Service Delivery
4.9 Rating | 50+ Offices
What is a VIN?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique 17-character alphanumeric code assigned to every motor vehicle, containing manufacturer details, model, engine specs, year and location of manufacture.
Structure of the VIN Code
• WMI – first 3 characters identifying country, manufacturer and vehicle type • VDS – next 6 characters describing vehicle attributes (body style, engine) • VIS – last 8 characters indicating production year, plant and serial number
WMI Code Geography Breakdown
Ranges: 1–5 North America, S–Z Europe, A–H Africa, J–R Asia (India), 6–7 Oceania, 8–9 South America
Importance of WMI Code
• Ensures global recognition of the manufacturer • Mandatory for valid VIN assignment • Supports regulatory compliance and tracking • Facilitates international vehicle trade • Enables efficient recall management and after-sales service
1. Documents Required for WMI Code Registration
• Duly signed application form with manufacturing unit details
• PAN and GST certificates (self-attested)
• Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed
• MOA & AOA or proprietorship details
• Udyam Registration (if applicable)
• Address proof of manufacturing facility
• Product category/code and existing coding (if any)
• Tentative production commencement date
• Application fee receipt
Step 1: Filing of Application
Do Startup assists in preparing and submitting the WMI registration application to BIS.
Step 2: Document Verification
BIS verifies submitted documents for completeness and accuracy.
Step 3: WMI Proposal
BIS proposes a unique WMI Code based on product type and location.
Step 4: SAE International Registration
The WMI proposal is forwarded to SAE International for inclusion in the global database.
Step 5: Confirmation Letter
Upon approval, SAE issues a Confirmation Letter to the manufacturer.
Step 6: Issuance of WMI Code
The manufacturer is officially assigned a WMI Code for use in VINs.
Application Fees
Application fee as prescribed by BIS, payable via demand draft or online transfer.
Timeline for WMI Code Registration
The process typically completes in 4–6 weeks, subject to document verification and SAE approval.
Application & Payment
1 week
Submission of application form and fee.
BIS Processing
2–3 weeks
Document verification and WMI proposal.
SAE Approval
1–2 weeks
Global database registration and confirmation.
Why Choose Do Startup?
Expert liaison with BIS and SAE International
End-to-end application and documentation support
Guaranteed timelines and real-time tracking
99.9% success rate in WMI registrations
24×7 dedicated customer assistance