I know what VIN means, I just though you where referring to the code on the white tag though as the VIN. You do need to VIN and proof of ownership to get them to program the key for you.
But to actually program the key you have to have the white tag, which like you said sucks because most people don't have them.
The white tag does come with new keys, but you might find someone with an old key that kept the tag. I know I would keep it, just incase!
