Criminal Code (R.S.C., 1985, c. C-46)

Marginal note:Tampering with vehicle identification number

• 353.1 (1) Every person commits an offence who, without lawful excuse, wholly or partially alters, removes or obliterates a vehicle identification number on a motor vehicle.

• Marginal note:Definition of vehicle identification number

  (2) For the purpose of this section, vehicle identification number means any number or other mark placed on a motor vehicle for the purpose of distinguishing it from other similar motor vehicles.

• Marginal note:Exception

  (3) Despite subsection (1), it is not an offence to wholly or partially alter, remove or obliterate a vehicle identification number on a motor vehicle during regular maintenance or any repair or other work done on the vehicle for a legitimate purpose, including a modification of the vehicle.

• Marginal note:Punishment

  (4) Every person who commits an offence under subsection (1)

  • (a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term of not more than five years; or

  • (b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.