What additional information is commonly required for processing a vehicle theft report aside from the vehicle identification number?

When processing a vehicle theft report, having the license plate or identification number is crucial in addition to the vehicle identification number (VIN). The license plate serves as an immediate identifier that is often used by law enforcement to track the vehicle and validate its status. This information can help in quickly locating the vehicle if it's spotted, as license plates are frequently recorded by various systems and can be checked against stolen vehicle databases.

The VIN provides specific details about the vehicle, but the license plate can be a more practical tool for officers in the field who encounter the vehicle or need to verify its legal registration. While the owner's name and the model and color of the vehicle contribute to the overall description and identification of the vehicle, the license plate is often the most direct means of ensuring that reports can be actionable in real-time situations. Vehicle history, while useful, is generally not a primary requirement for the immediate processing of a theft report.