Worl Manufacturer Indetifier (WMI) registration, an acronym for World Manufacturer Identification Registration, adheres to internationally recognized standards for identifying quality attributes associated with vehicle manufacturers worldwide.

In India, this type of registration is obligatory for all categories of automobile manufacturers. The primary regulatory authority overseeing this certification is the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Globally, automotive manufacturers universally implement some form of vehicle identification.

This identification process relies on the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), a distinctive sequence comprising 17 digits. Within this serial number, the first three digits are designated for manufacturer identification, referred to as the WMI number. WMI registration establishes a distinct identity for the manufacturer, differentiating their products from those of others

The International Organization of Standardization (ISO) is a worldwide federation responsible for laying down various standards. The main functions include preparation of International Standards, drafting international standards as according to which is adopted by the technical committees of the ISO. The automobiles also have certain standards which are to be followed and described under the ISO: 3780/1983. The automobiles are recognized with Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN consists of 17 characters which provide a unique identity to the automobile, the first 3 characters identify the Producer, thus the character identifying the manufacturer is known as the World Manufacturer Identifier. BIS being the National Standards Body of India and the member of the International Organization for Standardization, acts as the WMI coordinator in India and issues the WMI code to vehicle manufacturers in India after these are assigned by Society of Automotive Engineers Inc., USA, the international agency responsible for the maintenance of the WMI codes. BIS charges a nominal fee of Rs 5000/- + applicable Taxes for this service.

 

VIN vs. WMI Registration: Clarifying Vehicle Identification

It's crucial to differentiate between two distinct vehicle identification numbers: VIN and WMI. While both play a role in identifying vehicles, they serve different purposes within the realm of automotive identification.

VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number, is a globally recognized unique serial number assigned to vehicles by manufacturers. This identification method wasn't standardized internationally until after 1980. Prior to that, various identification methods were used by manufacturers to classify their vehicles.

Currently, a VIN consists of 17 characters, excluding the letters Q, O, and I to prevent confusion. The VIN adheres to ISO standards, primarily ISO 3779 and ISO 3780.

WMI (World Manufacturer Identification)

WMI, which stands for World Manufacturer Identification, constitutes the initial three characters of the VIN. It doesn't encompass the entire VIN but serves as a classification for the manufacturer. This specific code is referred to as the WMI code.

Manufacturers producing fewer than 1000 vehicles annually use '9' as the three-digit code, while the 12th, 13th, and 14th parts of the VIN are used for further identification. WMI codes vary based on the country of origin and the manufacturer. For instance, General Motors USA has 'IG' as its WMI code, and Chevrolet Motors USA uses '1G1'. The first character in the WMI code signifies the country of origin and the manufacturer's location.

The WMI code also contains a region code, such as 'MA-ME' and 'MZ' for India. To summarize, the VIN is the complete identification number for a vehicle, whereas the WMI is a portion that identifies the manufacturer and origin.

Regulatory Authority for WMI Registration

In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) serves as the primary regulatory authority for WMI registration. BIS operates under the umbrella of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). When the Society of Automotive Engineers Inc, USA (SAE USA) assigns a WMI code, it is registered with BIS.

SAE is a key regulatory body that establishes standards for vehicle production across different countries. Consequently, the Bureau of Indian Standards assumes the role of WMI registration oversight in India, ensuring conformity with international standards set by SAE.

Benefits of WMI Registration for Automobile Manufacturers

Ensuring Quality Standards

Acquiring WMI registration offers automobile manufacturers the assurance of adhering to stringent quality standards. This registration aligns with the quality criteria defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Notably, in India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) operates within the framework of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Consequently, obtaining this registration implies a commitment to maintaining elevated quality benchmarks.

Alignment with International Norms

WMI registration holds significance as an international registration that conforms to SAE regulations. While the BIS serves as the principal regulatory body in India, it collaborates with SAE to assign WMI codes to domestically manufactured vehicles. Opting for WMI registration ensures compliance with international norms and standards. This harmonious alignment furthers a company's reputation and global standing.

Distinctive Recognition

The WMI code not only signifies the manufacturer's origin but also forms the initial segment of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The first three characters within the VIN uniquely distinguish the manufacturer from others across the globe. Additionally, the initial digit in the WMI code signifies the manufacturing region, providing a clear distinction among manufacturers.

Mandatory and Advantageous

Beyond its obligatory nature, WMI registration bestows these manifold advantages upon automobile manufacturers worldwide. From enhancing quality adherence to fostering international compliance and granting distinct recognition, WMI registration stands as a pivotal step for automotive enterprises aiming to excel on the global stage.

Components of VIN under WMI Registration

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a distinct 17-digit serial number assigned to each vehicle. It serves as a unique identifier for a particular car manufacturer. The VIN is composed of several key components under WMI registration:

1. WMI Number (World Manufacturer Identification)

The WMI number comprises the initial part of the VIN. It is a unique code that identifies the manufacturer and the region where the vehicle was produced. The first three digits (1-3) out of the 17-digit serial number are dedicated to the WMI number.

2. VDS Section (Vehicle Description Section or Vehicle Description Number)

The VDS, or Vehicle Description Section, comes after the WMI number and typically describes various components of a specific vehicle. The following six letters (4-9) in the 17-digit VIN represent the VDS section.

3. VIS Section (Vehicle Indication Section)

The VIS section is the series of numbers that follows the VDS portion. As the name suggests, this section indicates key characteristics of the vehicle. The last eight digits (10-17) of the 17-digit VIN pertain to the VIS section.

By breaking down the VIN into these components, WMI registration allows for clear and systematic identification of vehicles based on manufacturer, description, and various indications.

Documents required for registration

  1. Incorporation Certificate
  2. Memorandum of Association
  3. Article of Association
  4. Partnership Deed, if any
  5. Udhayam Registration, if any
  6. Address proof of the commercial establishment
  7. Product Code/Category
  8. Particulars of Current Coding system
  9. Proposed Commencement date
  10. GST Certification

Applying for WMI Registration Online: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for WMI registration in India is a systematic process that involves several steps. Here's a step-by-step guide to assist applicants in the application procedure:

Visit the Official Website:

Go to the official website of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) at https://bis.gov.in/index.php/standards/world-manufacturer-identifier/.

Click on World Manufacturer Identifier:

On the website, locate and click on the "World Manufacturer Identifier" tab. This will redirect you to a new webpage.

Click on Application for WMI Code:

Within the WMI section, find and click on the "Application for WMI Code" option. This action will lead you to another page where you'll need to provide manufacturer information.

Provide Manufacturer Details:

Fill in the necessary information related to the manufacturing plant. This includes details like:

Manufacturer's name and the specific plant designated for vehicle manufacturing.

  • GSTIN number (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number).
  • Registered office details of the business.
  • Manufacturing plant details and plant capacity.
  • Key management executives' information.
  • Organizational structure and scale of manufacturing details.
  • Submission of Application Form:
  • The applicant needs to submit the completed application form in person (offline mode). It's advisable to take a printout of the application form for this purpose.

Seal and Signature Requirement:

The official seal of the company must be affixed on the application form. Additionally, the concerned executives of the company should provide their signatures.

Review Guidelines:

Before submitting the application, carefully review the guidelines provided by BIS. Ensure that you adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Clearly mention the firm's name, registered address, and manufacturing plant location.
  • A mandatory signature from the Director or Partner is required. In the case of a sole proprietorship firm, the sole proprietor's signature is mandatory.
  • Submit a self-certified GST certificate.
  • Furnish all other self-certified information required by the authority.
  • Pay Application Fee:
  • Prepare a demand draft of Rs. 5000/- plus GST in favor of the Bureau of Indian Standards, payable in New Delhi.

Application Processing:

Once you've completed the above steps and submitted the application along with the demand draft, the Bureau of Indian Standards will initiate the processing of your application.

By following these steps diligently, applicants can navigate through the WMI registration application process smoothly and accurately.