(a) General rule.--No vehicle on which the vehicle identification number has been removed or falsified shall be titled or registered without a special permit from the department.
(b) Application for plate.--Before a certificate of title or registration for the vehicle can be obtained, the owner shall apply to the department for a State replacement vehicle identification number plate on a form furnished by the department which shall contain the full name and address of the owner and any other information the department may deem necessary, as certified by a police officer.
(c) Designation on plate.--The State replacement vehicle identification number plate shall contain:
(1) Official department identification.
(2) The manufacturer's vehicle identification number, if known, or a number assigned by the department.
(d) Issuance and display of plate.--The department shall furnish a State replacement vehicle identification number plate which shall be immediately placed on the driver's side inside door post or as designated by the department.
(e) Reconstructed, modified or specially constructed vehicle.--The department may assign a State replacement vehicle identification number plate for a reconstructed, modified or specially constructed vehicle or theft recovery vehicle being brought into the Commonwealth from another state.