Is an Information Sticker Required When Selling a Car?

When selling a car, it’s important to ensure all identification elements are intact and legible. One of these elements is the factory information sticker, located on the car body. But is this sticker legally required for selling a vehicle? Can its absence affect the transaction or vehicle registration? Let’s take a closer look.

What Is an Information Sticker?

An information sticker (also called a compliance label or body label) is a factory-printed decal that typically includes:

the VIN number,
production date,
body type, engine code, and model,
maximum weight, tire pressure,
paint code, option codes,
and certification standards (EPA, DOT, ECE, etc.).

This label is usually found on the driver-side door jamb, center pillar, or other interior body panels.

Is It Mandatory When Selling a Car?

✅ For Private Sellers

Technically, there’s no legal ban on selling a car without the information sticker. However:

it can raise red flags for buyers,
decrease buyer confidence, especially if bodywork has been done,
affect the final price and sales speed.

✅ For Dealers and Legal Entities

Car dealerships and companies are often required to retain the label, as it may be needed for legal compliance and documentation purposes.

When Can Missing Stickers Be a Problem?

During export or registration in another country,
At customs clearance,
During vehicle inspections,
In police or VIN authenticity checks,
When selling premium vehicles with a need for a clean, verifiable history.

What If the Sticker Is Missing or Damaged?

If the label was lost due to repainting, panel replacement, or wear and tear — don’t worry. The important thing is to recreate it properly, matching factory specs, to restore trust and prevent inspection issues.