Illinois Form VSD 43 Law Enforcement Certification Guide – If you need to correct a vehicle title that was mistakenly marked as junked or salvaged in Illinois, Form VSD 43 is the official document required by the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS). This law enforcement certification form verifies the vehicle identification number (VIN) and related details through a physical inspection by a police officer. It helps owners and applicants restore proper title status under Illinois vehicle laws.
This guide explains what Form VSD 43 is, when it is needed, how to complete it, and where to download the official version. All information is based on current official Illinois Secretary of State resources for U.S. residents, particularly those dealing with Illinois vehicle titles.
What Is Illinois Form VSD 43?
Form VSD 43 is the “Law Enforcement Certification” document issued by the Illinois Office of the Secretary of State. It is used for vehicle and/or odometer information verification. The form confirms that a law enforcement officer has physically inspected the vehicle and verified key identifiers, including the public VIN, federal sticker VIN, secondary VIN, and OBD VIN.
According to the official form, it “may be used in instances where a title has been junked or salvaged in error.” The certification is specifically for VIN verification and affirms that the vehicle appears to meet Illinois statutory requirements for the type of title being sought.
The most recent version available is marked “April 2026 – 1 – VSD 43.8 ADA,” printed by authority of the State of Illinois.
When Do You Need Form VSD 43?
You typically need Form VSD 43 in these situations:
- A vehicle title was incorrectly issued or marked as junked or salvaged.
- You are applying for a corrected or rebuilt title after an erroneous salvage or junk designation.
- The Illinois Secretary of State requires independent law enforcement verification of the VIN and vehicle condition before processing a title application.
- Supporting documentation is needed for title transactions involving second-stage manufactured vehicles or complex VIN situations.
This form is not a general title application. It is a supporting certification that must accompany other required documents, such as the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190), when submitting to the Vehicle Services Department.
Who Completes Form VSD 43?
The form has two main sections:
- Owner Information — Completed by the vehicle owner(s). This includes name(s), address, and basic vehicle description (year, make, model, body style, color, and VIN).
- Law Enforcement Section — Must be completed only by a law enforcement officer. The officer performs a physical inspection, confirms multiple VIN locations, and signs the certification.
The officer certifies: “I hereby certify and affirm that I have made a physical inspection of the vehicle and the information above is true and correct and this vehicle seems to meet the requirements of the Illinois statutes for the type title in which the applicant is applying. I also understand that this certification is for VIN verification only.”
How to Complete Illinois Form VSD 43 Step by Step?
Follow these steps carefully. Always use the official current version of the form.
- Download the official form from the Illinois Secretary of State website (link provided below).
- Owner section: Print or type the full name(s) of the owner(s), complete address, and vehicle details including year, make, model, body style, color, and the full Vehicle Identification Number. Include second-stage vehicle information if applicable.
- Contact a law enforcement agency: Take the vehicle and the partially completed form to a local police department, county sheriff’s office, or other authorized Illinois law enforcement agency. Schedule or request a physical VIN inspection.
- Officer completes the inspection portion: The officer checks and marks “Yes” or “No” for:
- Public VIN Confirmed
- Federal Sticker VIN Confirmed
- Secondary VIN Confirmed
- OBD VIN Confirmed
If any answer is “No,” the officer must state the reason.
- Certification and signature: The officer enters the name and address of the law enforcement agency, prints their name, signs, adds badge number, and dates the form.
- Submit with your title application: Include the completed Form VSD 43 with your Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190) and any other required supporting documents and fees to the Illinois Secretary of State Vehicle Services Department.
Where to Download Form VSD 43?
Always download the official form directly from the Illinois Secretary of State to ensure you have the current version:
Download Illinois Form VSD 43 (PDF)
Additional title and registration forms are available on the official Illinois SOS Title and Registration Publications and Forms page.
Related Illinois Vehicle Title Forms and Resources
Form VSD 43 is often used together with other SOS documents:
- Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190) — Primary form for title and registration transactions.
- Odometer Disclosure Statement (VSD 333) — Required for most title transfers under Illinois and federal law.
- Affirmation Supporting Salvage Certificate and related salvage/junk forms.
For general vehicle title and registration information, visit the official Illinois Secretary of State website or contact a local SOS facility.
Important Tips for Successful Submission
- Use only the official current PDF. Third-party versions may be outdated.
- Ensure all VIN numbers match exactly across the vehicle, form, and any existing title documents.
- Have the vehicle available for physical inspection by the officer.
- Keep copies of the completed form and all supporting documents for your records.
- Processing times and exact requirements can vary. Confirm current fees and submission methods (mail or in-person at an SOS facility) on the official Illinois SOS website before submitting.
Conclusion
Illinois Secretary of State Form VSD 43 provides the required law enforcement certification for vehicle and odometer information, particularly when correcting an erroneously junked or salvaged title. By obtaining a proper physical VIN inspection and completing this form accurately, vehicle owners can move forward with the correct title application process under Illinois law.
Download the official form today and work with your local law enforcement agency to complete the certification. For the most up-to-date instructions and related forms, always refer to the Illinois Secretary of State Vehicle Services resources.
Official Download Link: https://www.ilsos.gov/content/dam/publications/pdf_publications/vsd43.pdf