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World Manufacturer Identity (WMI) Registration
The World Manufacturer Identity (WMI) is a globally recognized code used to identify vehicle manufacturers.
It forms the first three characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
The World Manufacturer Identity (WMI) is a globally recognized code used to identify vehicle manufacturers. WMI registration ensures traceability, compliance, and global brand recognition for automotive makers.
India-based manufacturers must apply for WMI through BIS to sell internationally.
Understanding WMI code registration helps ensure legal manufacturing and global market entry.
Introduction: Why a Small Delhi Auto Parts Manufacturer Got Rejected in Europe
In 2021, a medium-sized Delhi-based auto components company hit a roadblock. Despite engineering top-quality EV modules, their shipments were stalled at the Rotterdam port. Reason? They lacked a valid World Manufacturer Identity (WMI) code. Their VINs (Vehicle Identification Numbers) were deemed invalid, and European buyers lost trust.
This isn’t just a rare case. In today’s interconnected auto industry, missing out on WMI registration can lead to export bans, legal bottlenecks, and irreversible brand damage. Whether you’re building two-wheelers, luxury sedans, or smart EV kits, having a registered World Manufacturer Identity code is now a non-negotiable.
Let’s decode why WMI matters, how to register, and how top brands use it to build credibility globally.
An Overview of the WMI (World Manufacturer Identity) Registration
Although Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) first came into being in the US in 1954, a standardized form of identification for vehicles was not made mandatory until 1981. Before 1981, every manufacturer had its own system. The VIN was designed in 1954, again at the insistence of the US government, by US auto manufacturers working with the Automobile Manufacturers Association to set standards for vehicle identification along with a set digit sequence and hidden chassis markings. Since 1954, American automobile manufacturers have used vehicle identification numbering to define and identify motor vehicles.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the United States mandated that all on-road vehicles be identified with a 17-character VIN format. This format, with the approval of the manufacturers, excluded letters O, I, and Q so that confusion with numerals 0, 1, and 9 is avoided.
World Manufacturer Identity (WMIs) are allocated to different countries and manufacturers in the USA by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Each ISO national member comprises designating an organization to act on behalf of the international agency responsible for maintaining WMI code.
In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), being the National Standards Body and an ISO member, coordinates WMI assignment. The assignment is done to vehicle manufacturers by BIS based on the assignment by the Society of Automotive Engineers Inc. in the USA, the international agency responsible for maintenance of WMI codes.
What is World Manufacturer Identity (WMI)?
World Manufacturer Identity (WMI) is a unique three-character code that identifies the vehicle manufacturer. It is assigned by authorized organizations such as the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) or Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in India.
This code forms the first three digits of the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), used universally to trace the origin of a vehicle.
For example:
Mahindra & Mahindra’s WMI: MA1
Hyundai India: MALA
This identity ensures that every vehicle can be traced back to its manufacturer—legally, safely, and globally.
Why is WMI Important for Manufacturers?
- Global Recognition: It links your brand to a recognized global identity in all official vehicle documentation.
Compliance with VIN Standards: VINs without WMI are not accepted by customs authorities.
Essential for Exports: No WMI, no international movement.
Improves Traceability: Makes recalls, servicing, and insurance processing smooth.
Trust Indicator: Buyers prefer brands with traceable origins.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Manufacture’s identification uniquely assigns to a vehicle in that 17 characters are used, whereas letters I, O, and Q are excluded. The VIN is recognized worldwide as the individual identification of each vehicle in the automotive industry. It is sometimes referred to as a chassis number or a frame number. Considering ISO standards 3779 and 3780, the VIN system enables automotive manufacturers to identify each vehicle uniquely.
There are three main sections of VIN:
- World Manufacturer Identity (WMI)– The first three characters uniquely identify the manufacturer of the vehicle.
- Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)- Characters 4 through 9, which describe the general characteristics of the vehicle.
- Vehicle Indicator Section (VIS)– The last eight characters specify the attributes in question.
The ISO 3779(“Road Vehicles – VIN Content & Structure”) regulation describes what is to be included in the VIN and how to define it, so as to allow for its utilization across the world for identification of manufacturers of vehicles. The ISO 3780 (“Road Vehicles – WMI Code”) states how to identify the WMI code.
WMI vs VIN: How They Work Together
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is like a vehicle’s Aadhaar. It tells where the car was made, what type it is, and more. But without WMI, VIN is incomplete.
Here’s how it breaks down:
WMI (First 3 Digits): Manufacturer code (e.g., MA1 = Mahindra)
VDS (Next 6 Digits): Vehicle Descriptor Section (e.g., type, engine)
VIS (Last 8 Digits): Vehicle Identifier Section (e.g., model year, plant)
If a VIN begins with an unregistered WMI, it’s considered invalid internationally. This can halt business expansion and cause compliance nightmares.
Importance of World Manufacturer Identity (WMI) Registration
- Traceability: A WMI number is unique to that particular vehicle and allows tracing vehicles all over the world. This facilitates recalls, helps assure safety and compliance but, most importantly, it is important to monitor history, ownership changes, and modifications of the vehicle.
- Compliance: The WMI registration makes certain that the manufacturers are complying with such global automotive standard norms, of which some the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) may have laid down. Such compliance is highly required for international players.
- Data Integrity: Registration of vehicle data takes place perfectly so as to give good and correct management, thus creating trustworthiness of information about the manufacturer, specifications of the vehicle, and history.
- Consumer Protection: The existence of the WMI registration assures that consumers are protected against being sold unsafe vehicles and other fraud by establishing traceability while ensuring compliance with standards.
- Market Access: Registered WMIs provide manufacturers with unrestricted access to international markets. A great number of countries demand such a WMI as part of their import regulations, thus making registration inescapably significant in international trade.
Documents Required For WMI (World Manufacturer Identity) Code Registration
- Self-certified GST certificate photocopy
- Self certified Photocopy of Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association/ Partnership deed
- Self-certified photocopy of the Udyam Registration/ certificate issued by MSME, Government of India.
- Self-certified copy of other relevant documents, if any
- Application fees remitted
- Address proof document
- Product category/code for which WMI code is desired
- Currently used coding system details
- Proposed production initiation date/month
WMI (World Manufacturer Identity) Code Registration Process
Step 1: Application Submission-A hard copy of the application and every requisite document are submitted to BIS by the applicant.
Step 2: Document Verification-The BIS officials will verify the documents received for their completeness.
Step 3: WMI Proposal and Database Entry-BIS will propose a WMI code in accordance with the established series and enter it into its database.
Step 4: SAE International Registration-The applicant must register with SAE International in the USA to obtain a WMI code. (Note: This clarifies whom to register). The assignment of the WMI code is done by SAE.
Step 5: SAE Confirmation Letter-SAE International sends a confirmation letter to the applicant stating the assigned WMI code as soon as the registration is successful.
Step 6: WMI code issuance-Finally, the issuance of a WMI code will be done to the applicant firm.
Client Case Study: Jaipur-Based EV Startup
A Rajasthan EV startup struggled with investor onboarding due to lack of WMI. Their vehicles couldn’t be registered under RTO norms. After consulting Diligence Certifications, they secured WMI within 45 days. The result? RTO recognition, better fundraising, and 300+ scooters deployed across 4 states.
Reason to why Choose Diligence Certifications for WMI ( World Manufacturer Identity) Registration
Diligence Certifications and their legal dedicated team will help you to obtaining WMI Registration. With our years of experience, in depth knowledge of World Manufacturer Identity, and commitment to excellence.
- Expert Profound Knowledge: Your own products will meet all the requirements of the WMI Registration.
- Full Assistance: You may put everything at rest because we shall complete it right from the beginning to the very end.
- Personalized Service: Solutions tailor-fit according to your requirement.
- Industry Connections: The approvals are quicker with lesser delays.
- Guaranteed Quality: Builds trust among customers in certified genuineness.
- Cost-Effective: Open and transparent pricing-no hidden costs.
- Let’s get started with your WMI Registration and Brand Diligence Certifications! Call us now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code assigned to manufacturers of vehicles that form the first part of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It identifies not only the country of origin of the vehicle but also the manufacturer itself.
WMI codes are licensed to manufacturers in India by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), authorized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
The application procedure involves making a formal application to SIAM, furnishing thorough company particulars and proof of manufacturing capabilities, securing the verification and approval procedures by SIAM, and then the successful award of the unique WMI code.
Typical documents include a company registration certificate; GST certificate; details on the manufacturing facility; sample VIN structure; and authorization letter.
Normally, this may change, and the registration fee will be a combination of the application fee and service charges. It is highly recommended that the latest fees be checked with SIAM directly or with an expert.
Yes, Diligence Certification has a particular consultancy that provides assistance throughout the WMI registration process and confirms compliance with all relevant regulations.
Although there is no standard expiration for WMI codes, continued registration and updates of data as per regulatory norms are necessary.