License Plate Lookup by State

Sometimes, a VIN may not be available or accessible due to physical damage, obscured tags, or incomplete records. Our License Plate Lookup by State is an easy and accurate alternative in these cases. With just a license plate number, you can access critical vehicle details, including title history, accidents, and more.

As an authorized NMVTIS provider, VinAudit delivers reliable, state-specific data, including title history, accidents, odometer readings, etc. Whether buying a used car, verifying seller claims, or researching specific vehicles, this lookup tool is a fast and effective solution when the VIN isn’t available.

A missing VIN does not have to stop anyone from getting to know a vehicle. With a license plate lookup, necessary details can be obtained in seconds.

What is License Plate Lookup by State?

License Plate Lookup by State is a tool that allows you to retrieve detailed information about a vehicle using its license plate number. Sometimes referred to as a reverse license plate number search, this method accesses state-specific databases and public records to provide essential details about the vehicle registration and history.

Unlike a VIN check, which requires the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number, a license plate lookup service offers an alternative approach. This is particularly valuable when the VIN is inaccessible due to damage, missing tags, or incomplete documentation.

Key Features of License Plate Number Lookup by State

Our license plate lookup tool offers comprehensive search options, enabling users to search effortlessly using the vehicle’s license plate number and state of registration for precise and targeted results. This feature ensures access to critical details, even when a VIN isn’t available. Additionally, the tool ensures state-specific accuracy by utilizing data sourced from local records and NMVTIS-acquired information, providing up-to-date and reliable insights tailored to each state’s unique regulations.

The license number-based vehicle search tool provides detailed vehicle information, allowing users to access crucial details. This comprehensive data helps verify a vehicle’s reliability, ensuring that buyers, sellers, and enthusiasts can make informed decisions. Below is a table outlining the specific information available through the lookup tool.

Vehicle Specifications	Information on performance, fuel efficiency, dimensions, and exterior features.
Title and Sale Records	Ownership history with chronological registrations across states. Includes past listings and sale prices from private sellers or dealerships.
Junk/Salvage/Insurance Records	Details on whether the vehicle was declared a total loss, registered in junkyards, or sold at salvage auctions.
Accident and Theft Records	Reports of minor and major accidents from police, state, and industry sources, plus theft or theft recovery details to confirm the vehicle’s status.
Lien/Impound/Export Records	Information on active liens, impound records, or export history that may impact ownership.
Problem Checks	Alerts for potential title issues like salvage, flood damage, or odometer tampering.
Supplemental Resources	Market value, 5-year ownership costs, and recommended resources for further research.

Whether you’re a car buyer, seller, or an auto enthusiast, a license plate lookup simplifies obtaining vital vehicle information. This tool ensures accurate and timely insights by tailoring results to each state’s records, making it an indispensable resource for thorough vehicle research.

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License Plates: State-by-State Guide 

In all 50 states, vehicle registration practices are generally consistent, and license plates are linked to the vehicle, not the owner. Every state department of motor vehicles (DMV) or its equivalent issues license plates with decals that indicate the vehicle’s registration expiration date, which must be affixed to the plates. Temporary tags, typically valid for 30 to 60 days, are also issued in nearly all states for vehicles awaiting permanent registration. Most states require annual registration renewal to keep a vehicle legally registered.

However, several states offer or require biennial (two-year) registration renewal for most passenger vehicles. These states include Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Texas. Passenger vehicles can be registered for two years in these states, though certain vehicles, such as commercial ones, may still require annual renewal.

This guide offers state-specific details on license plate formats, issuing agencies, and vehicle history considerations. It includes direct links to the main DMV websites or specific pages for license plates and vehicle registration, to help streamline your research.

Alabama When buying a used car in Alabama where over 5.4 million vehicles are registered, safety should be one of the top priorities. With fatal crashes increasing by 27% from 2019 to 2022 and 19 crashes per 100,000 vehicles in 2022, conducting thorough inspections and obtaining a vehicle history report is essential. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Alabama Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division (ALDOR MVD) Phone Number: (334) 242-9000 Plate Number Format and Design: 1AB1234 Alabama plates often feature the phrase “Heart of Dixie” with simple bay and sky graphics. To Request a Vehicle Record: Visit the Records Request page.

Alaska Used car purchase in Alaska (over 679 thousand vehicles) requires careful consideration due to local challenges such as harsh weather conditions, potential discrepancies in mileage records, and undisclosed damages. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Division of Motor Vehicles under the Department of Administration (AK DOA) Phone Number: (907) 269-5551 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC123 Alaska plates bear a gold pan or the state flag, emphasizing its rich history and natural beauty.

Arizona The diverse climate and terrain can significantly impact vehicle conditions, making a thorough check even more crucial in the state with over 6 million vehicles registered in 2022. Conducting a license plate search can provide valuable insights into the car’s past, specifications, and more. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division (AZDOT) Phone Number: (602) 255-0072 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC1234 Arizona plates typically feature desert scenes with cacti, showcasing the state’s unique environment. How to Request for Vehicle Records: Visit the Motor Vehicle Records page.

Arkansas With 1,519.65 vehicles per 1,000 owners, Arkansas has one of the highest vehicle registrations. Sales across key cities like Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Fort Smith underscore Arkansas’s status as a hub for diverse vehicle sales. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Motor Vehicle Phone Number: (501) 682-4692 Plate Number Format and Design: 123 ABC Arkansas plates often display the state outline or a diamond, symbolizing its status as the Diamond State. To Request a Vehicle Record: Visit the Arkansas Title, Registration and Lien Record Search page.

California With nearly 15 million registered vehicles, the Golden State leads the nation in car registrations but also poses challenges for car buyers. As one of the most expensive states for car ownership and repairs, ensuring a clean deal is essential when purchasing a vehicle. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: California Department of Motor Vehicles (CA DMV) Phone Number: (800) 777-0133 Plate Number Format and Design: 1ABC123 California plates are known for their clean, simple designs, typically featuring red and blue text on white backgrounds. To Request a Vehicle Record: Go to the California Vehicle Record Request page.

Colorado Colorado’s cities like Denver boast a strong car market and high ownership rates. However, with over 1,000 car thefts per 100,000 residents in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood area in 2022, it is critical to run a Colorado license plate search covering almost 1.5 million registered vehicles. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (CDOR DMV) Phone Number: (303) 205-5600 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-123 Colorado plates frequently feature green mountain ranges, highlighting the state’s natural beauty. To Search Vehicle Records: Visit the Vehicle Record Searches page.

Connecticut Connecticut has a high car ownership rate with 91.5% of households owning at least one vehicle. With a good supply of used cars, a wide selection, and competitive prices, car license plate lookup is important in the state. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CT DMV) Phone Number: (860) 263-5700 Plate Number Format and Design: 123-ABC Connecticut plates often feature a blue and white color scheme, symbolizing its maritime history. To Look Up Registration Status: Proceed to the Registration Verification page.

Delaware Delaware had the lowest motor vehicle registrations per 1,000 licensed drivers in 2022, with a significant 54.2% decline in registrations from 2018 to 2022. While fewer registrations may suggest a smaller pool of vehicles for potential buyers, it’s crucial to note that checking a vehicle’s history remains essential. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DE DMV) Phone Number: (302) 744-2500 Plate Number Format and Design: 12345 Delaware plates are known for their classic gold-on-navy design, emphasizing simplicity and tradition. To Obtain Driving/Vehicle Records: Complete the required form on the DMV page.

Florida In 2022, 94% of Florida households owned at least one car, but the state ranked second in motor vehicle thefts and had high insurance costs, averaging $4,326 annually. These factors highlight the need for doing some vehicle research before buying. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) Phone Number: (850) 617-2000 Plate Number Format and Design: 123 ABC Florida plates frequently feature oranges or sunshine, reflecting the state’s tropical identity.

Georgia Buying a used vehicle in Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Savannah, or other cities requires careful consideration and due diligence. Given the high cost of car repairs in the state, performing a Georgia license plate lookup is an important step. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Georgia Department of Revenue Motor Vehicles Division (DOR) Phone Number: (877) 457-1681 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC1234 Georgia plates typically highlight the state outline or peaches, a symbol of its agricultural roots. To Look Up Vehicle Status: Access the Georgia Drives e-Services.

Hawaii With over 445,000 registered vehicles, Hawaii offers cost savings and diverse options for used cars, but challenges include limited availability, climate-driven maintenance costs, and price variations across major cities. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Motor Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division within each county: the County of Hawaiʻi, Honolulu, Maui, and Kauaʻi. Phone Number: Contact local county DMV offices (e.g., Honolulu: 808-768-9100) Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 123 Hawaii plates often feature a rainbow design, symbolizing the state’s natural beauty and culture.

Idaho Used cars offer cost savings, lower depreciation, and reduced insurance costs. Cities like Boise provide diverse options, while Idaho Falls and Coeur d’Alene excel in trucks and SUVs for rugged use. Challenges for car owners include limited rural inventory, maintenance issues, and winter-related wear. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Idaho Transportation Department, Division of Motor Vehicles (ITD DMV) Phone Number: (208) 334-8000 Plate Number Format and Design: 1A12345 Idaho plates typically include a red, white, and blue design with the phrase “Famous Potatoes.” To Search Title and Vehicle Records: Run a Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Records Search.

Illinois Illinois ranks 6th in motor vehicle thefts, with 38,649 reported in 2022. Issues in the used car market, such as title washing, odometer rollback, and undisclosed damage, highlight the need for thorough VIN or license plate lookup service in the Illinois used car market. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Illinois Secretary of State, Vehicle Services Department Phone Number: (800) 252-8980 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 1234 Illinois plates often feature a skyline or Abraham Lincoln imagery, reflecting its history and heritage.

Indiana Indiana’s nearly 2 million registered automobiles in 2022 reflect a diverse used car market, but natural disasters like floods and tornadoes may leave some vehicles severely damaged. A license plate check is crucial to uncover any hidden issues from such events which are common in the state. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Phone Number: (888) 692-6841 Plate Number Format and Design: 123A456 Indiana plates commonly feature state symbols such as covered bridges or a torch and stars.

Iowa Iowa’s used car market, with options in cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, is appealing due to its affordability—ranking among the six cheapest states for car ownership in 2022. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), Office of Vehicle Services Phone Number: (515) 237-3110 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 123 Iowa plates often highlight rural scenes, including farm imagery and rolling hills.

Kansas Kansas, with a vibrant used car market in cities like Wichita and Kansas City, is among the least expensive states for car ownership. It offers diverse vehicles at lower costs. Given the state’s frequent hailstorms and accidents, running a Kansas VIN check ensures a damage-free purchase. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Kansas Department of Revenue (KS DOR), Division of Vehicles Phone Number: (785) 296-3621 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 123 Kansas plates typically feature wheat stalks or sunflowers, emphasizing their agricultural heritage.

Kentucky Kentucky frequently faces flooding as its primary natural disaster, leading to an influx of flood-damaged vehicles in recent years. In 2022, the state recorded 1,407 vehicle registrations per 1,000 licensed drivers, showcasing high demand for used cars. Major cities like Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, and Covington offer diverse vehicles. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing Phone Number: (502) 564-5301 Plate Number Format and Design: 123 ABC Kentucky plates often include horse imagery, representing its famous horse racing culture. For Title History via VIN or License Plate Search: Visit the Title History Requests page to download the appropriate form.

Louisiana Louisiana faces some of the highest car insurance costs in the U.S., with many drivers carrying only minimal coverage. Frequent natural disasters like hurricanes and floods have also led to an increase in flood-damaged vehicles in the market. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) Phone Number: (225) 925-6146 Plate Number Format: ABC 123 Plate Design: Louisiana plates frequently showcase pelicans or fleur-de-lis, reflecting the state’s wildlife and French heritage.

Maine Maine offers low car ownership costs, minimal natural disaster risks, and diverse used car options in cities like Portland and Lewiston. With no-fault insurance unavailable and some drivers uninsured, conducting a Maine License Plate Lookup is needed for a safe and confident purchase. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Phone Number: (207) 624-9000 Plate Number Format and Design: 123 ABC Maine plates often feature chickadees or lobster traps, symbolizing its coastal and wildlife heritage.

Maryland Maryland’s used car market, centered in cities like Baltimore and Annapolis, offers affordable options, with pre-owned vehicles costing about $400 less than the national average. A Maryland license plate lookup ensures a smart choice by providing instant vehicle history reports. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) Phone Number: (410) 768-7000 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 1234 Maryland plates feature the number series in black on reflective white with a Maryland flag graphic.

Massachusetts Massachusetts offers strong consumer protection through its Used Vehicle Lemon Laws, making it a favorable state for buying used cars. With a low car accident rate—4.9 fatalities per 100,000 people in 2020—buyers can find opportunities in the market while staying vigilant against fraud. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Phone Number: (857) 368-8000 Plate Number Format and Design: 123 ABC Massachusetts plates typically feature a simple design with the phrase “The Spirit of America.” To Check Lien and Title Status: Access the online title and lien lookup service.

Michigan Michigan’s robust used car market features over 3.2 million registered vehicles and high car ownership, with 92.8% of households owning at least one car. Buyers should exercise caution, especially with salvage titles, which require a Michigan VIN check and inspection before licensing. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) Phone Number: (888) 767-6424 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 1234 Michigan plates often highlight the state’s Great Lakes or scenic features.

Minnesota Minnesota’s thriving used car market saw a 5.7% growth in registrations from 2018 to 2022, ranking 10th nationally with 1,364.28 vehicles per 1,000 residents. Known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” the state offers abundant opportunities for car buyers. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) Phone Number: (651) 297-2126 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 123 Minnesota plates frequently feature lakes and trees, emphasizing its nickname, “Land of 10,000 Lakes.”

Mississippi Mississippi has the highest fatal crash rate in the country, with 26.2 deaths per 100,000 people in 2021, including 35 fatal crashes in Jackson alone. When buying a used car in the state, checking the vehicle’s history is an necessary step to ensure safety, verify its condition, and avoid scams. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Mississippi Department of Revenue (DOR), Motor Vehicle Licensing Bureau Phone Number: (601) 923-7100 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 123 Mississippi plates feature a white background, a blue-and-white state flag emblem, and a red “Birthplace of America’s Music” text.

Missouri Missouri’s high car theft rate, with 29,345 thefts in 2022, highlights the importance of thorough checks when buying a used car. A Missouri license plate lookup or VIN check can reveal vital details, such as ownership history and reported incidents, ensuring a safe and reliable purchase. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) Phone Number: (573) 751-4509 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC123 Missouri plates commonly feature the state seal or arch imagery, representing St. Louis’ Gateway Arch.

Montana Montana’s thriving used car market, especially in cities like Billings and Great Falls, reflects its top ranking in motor vehicle registrations per 1,000 licensed drivers in 2022, at 2,618.25—a 26.3% increase since 2018. Damaged vehicles deemed uneconomical to repair must carry a Montana salvage title and follow a unique registration process, underscoring the importance of ensuring a vehicle’s reliability before purchase. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) Phone Number: (406) 444-3933 Plate Number Format and Design: 1-ABC123 Montana plates feature a blue background with white lettering and a stylized mountain skyline or a multicolor outline.

Nebraska Nebraska’s used car market, centered in cities like Omaha, Lincoln, and Bellevue, is highly accessible and affordable. With an average used car price of $35,064 and annual full-coverage insurance costs of $1,709, Nebraska ranks among the 10 least expensive states for car ownership. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (402) 471-2281 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 123 Nebraska plates frequently feature landscapes or the state capitol building. To Search Lien, Title, and Registration Records: Only qualified business professionals may access this paid online service.

Nevada Nevada, known for high car ownership costs, with average annual insurance of $2,496 and used car prices around $34,859, presents challenges for buyers. Key cities like Las Vegas and Reno offer a variety of options, but with the state’s high vehicle theft rate (6th highest in 2022), conducting a Nevada license plate lookup is crucial. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (775) 684-4830 Plate Number Format and Design: 123 ABC Nevada plates often depict desert landscapes or mountain scenes, reflecting their diverse geography.

New Hampshire Buying a used car in New Hampshire is cost-effective, as the state ranks among the least expensive for car ownership. Key cities like Manchester offer a variety of options from dealerships and private sellers. Despite no recent major disaster declarations, conducting a New Hampshire license plate lookup is crucial to ensure a smooth and well-thought-out purchase. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (603) 227-4000 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 123 New Hampshire plates typically include the state’s motto, “Live Free or Die.” For Motor Vehicle Record Request: Access the online service on the DMV website (for vehicle record holders only).

New Jersey Cities like Newark, Jersey City, and Paterson have many vehicles. Despite having one of the lowest motor vehicle registration rates in the U.S., vehicle theft remains a concern. As a no-fault insurance state, New Jersey requires insurance companies to cover medical bills for accidents, regardless of fault. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Phone Number: (609) 292-6500 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-1234 New Jersey plates generally have a plain yellow and black design for readability.

New Mexico Buying a used car in New Mexico, particularly in cities like Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces, requires careful consideration due to the state’s high car ownership costs. . A New Mexico license plate lookup can help protect a buyer from fraud in the state that ranks 5th in the US for motor vehicle theft. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) Phone Number: (888) 683-4636 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-123 New Mexico plates often feature bright colors and a Zia symbol, reflecting the state’s cultural heritage.

New York State Buying a used car in New York offers plenty of options in cities like New York City, Buffalo, and Albany. The Empire State has the country’s highest average full-coverage car insurance cost, at $4,769 in 2022. While New York boasts one of the lowest motor vehicle registration and theft rates, conducting a license plate check remains valuable for prospective buyers. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (518) 486-9786 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-1234 New York plates typically display bold colors with the state name prominently featured. To Get DMV Records: Go to the NY DMV’s Records page.

North Carolina North Carolina reported 273,732 traffic crashes in 2022, highlighting the importance of ensuring a vehicle’s safety and history.Since North Carolina’s Lemon Law does not cover used cars, conducting thorough research is vital to avoid purchasing a lemon and to confirm the vehicle is safe and insurable. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (919) 715-7000 Plate Number Format: ABC-1234 Plate Design: North Carolina plates often feature scenic elements such as the Wright Brothers’ plane or mountain landscapes.

North Dakota North Dakota boasts one of the highest motor vehicle registration rates in the U.S., with 1,949.16 registrations per 1,000 licensed drivers in 2022. The state also saw a 21.7% increase in registrations between 2018 and 2022. Cities like Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks provide numerous options for used car buyers. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: North Dakota Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division (NDDOT MVD) Phone Number: (701) 328-2725 Plate Number Format and Design: 123 ABC North Dakota plates typically highlight agriculture or the state’s natural beauty.

Ohio Ohio is one of the most affordable states for car ownership, thanks to competitive insurance rates driven by insurer competition in cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. An Ohio license plate lookup is essential to avoid potential pitfalls or risks associated with used cars. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Phone Number: (614) 752-7500 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 1234 Ohio plates often feature state imagery, such as farmland or city skylines, alongside the state’s name.

Oklahoma Buying a used car in Oklahoma requires diligence, especially in cities like Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Norman. With a 9.6% drop in motor vehicle registrations from 2018 to 2022 and vehicles often sourced from other states, an Oklahoma license plate lookup is vital to uncover potential issues and ensure a sound purchase. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Oklahoma Tax Commission, Motor Vehicle Division Phone Number: (405) 521-3221 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-123 Oklahoma plates often feature themes like the state bird or historical landmarks.

Oregon The top-selling used cars in Oregon include the Toyota Tacoma, Honda CR-V, and Ford F-150. However, with Oregon ranking 5th nationally for motor vehicle theft (551.5 per 100,000), obtaining a vehicle history report using the VinAudit license plate is essential for a secure purchase. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services (DMV) Phone Number: (503) 945-5000 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 1234 Oregon plates often showcase evergreen trees or mountain ranges, reflecting its natural landscapes.

Pennsylvania A vehicle history report is essential when buying a used car in Pennsylvania cities like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh. With high insurance costs averaging $3,600 annually and a theft rate of 163 per 100,000 residents, a Pennsylvania license plate lookup ensures informed and secure purchases. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Driver & Vehicle Services Phone Number: (717) 412-5300 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-1234 Pennsylvania plates typically feature the state’s keystone emblem and a straightforward color scheme.

Rhode Island Rhode Island provides opportunities for used car buyers in cities like Providence, Warwick, and Cranston. While motor vehicle registrations dropped 7.3% from 2018 to 2022, potentially leading to fewer available options, the state maintains a low theft rate of 159.6 cases per 100,000 residents. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (401) 462-4368 Plate Number Format: ABC-123 Plate Design: Rhode Island plates often include nautical themes, emphasizing its coastal identity.

South Carolina South Carolina offers a thriving market for used cars, particularly in major cities like Charleston. However, the state ranked 10th nationally for car accidents in 2022, with 1,112 fatal crashes and 1,198 deaths. This underscores the need for smart purchasing with a South Carolina license plate search. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (803) 896-5000 Plate Number Format: ABC 123 Plate Design: South Carolina plates frequently feature the state tree, the palmetto, or scenic landscapes.

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South Dakota South Dakota’s low accident rates—131 fatal crashes in 2022—make it a safe state for driving. Ranking third nationally in vehicle ownership (1,959.62 per 1,000 drivers), with 30.2% owning three or more vehicles, cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City offer diverse options. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: South Dakota Department of Revenue (DOR) Phone Number: (605) 773-3541 Plate Number Format and Design: 12 ABC 3 South Dakota plates often feature iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore or elements representing the state’s natural beauty.

Tennessee Tennessee experienced a 26.3% rise in motor vehicle registrations from 2018 to 2022, with major cities being key markets for used cars due to their large inventory and competitive pricing. However, the state ranked 10th in motor vehicle theft and 9th in car accident deaths in 2022. A Tennessee license plate search is the key to well-researched and safe transactions. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Tennessee Department of Revenue – Vehicle Services Division Phone Number: (615) 741-3101 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-123 Tennessee plates often highlight musical heritage, featuring instruments or designs tied to the state’s culture.

Texas Texas has one of the highest motor theft rates in 2022, emphasizing the need to check a vehicle’s theft records and title history when buying a used car. Stolen cars are often disguised through title washing and VIN cloning, making thorough checks crucial. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) Phone Number: (888) 368-4689 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-1234 Texas plates prominently display the state outline or Lone Star, emphasizing its iconic identity.

Utah Utah has experienced a 26.3% increase in motor vehicle registrations between 2018 and 2022, reflecting its growing car market. Utah ranks among the highest in car ownership. A Utah license plate search can help buyers and sellers reduce the risks of used car transactions in this expanding market. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (801) 297-7780 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 123 Utah plates often feature the state’s famous red rock arches or snow-capped mountains.

Vermont With Vermont’s low motor vehicle theft rate of 93.5 per 100,000 residents in 2022, buying a used car feels secure. However, a license plate lookup remains essential to uncover crucial details like accident history and ownership records, supporting sound purchase decisions. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (802) 828-2000 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC 123 Vermont plates typically use a simple green and white design, reflecting the state’s natural beauty.

Virginia Virginia’s low auto theft rate of 160.7 per 100,000 residents, well below the national average of 282.7, makes it an attractive state for buying used cars. With a car accident death rate of 11.2 per 100,000 residents, ensuring vehicle safety and reliability using a reliable Virginia license plate lookup tool is essential. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (804) 497-7100 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-1234 Virginia plates often feature colonial themes or scenic images, highlighting its rich history.

Washington Washington State offers a dynamic used car market, especially in cities like Seattle, Spokane, and Bellevue. Despite high ownership costs—ranking 9th nationally in 2022 with an average annual insurance cost of $1,525 and used car prices averaging $36,119—demand remains strong. Buyers should perform a Washington license plate lookup when looking for the right vehicle. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) Phone Number: (360) 902-3770 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC1234 Washington plates frequently display Mount Rainier or evergreen trees, reflecting the state’s landscape.

West Virginia West Virginia ranks among the top 10 most expensive states for car ownership due to the high costs of gas, repairs, insurance, and loans. With an average insurance cost of $1,942 and used car prices at $33,761, a license plate lookup is important to ensure a wise investment in a state with 1,424.83 registered vehicles per 1,000 drivers. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Phone Number: (304) 558-3900 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-1234 West Virginia plates often showcase the state’s mountain scenery or landmarks. To Request for Vehicle Information: Look for the option under the vehicle information page to search for a specific vehicle.

Wisconsin In Wisconsin, 93.7% of households own at least one car, reflecting the state’s high vehicle accessibility. Though vehicle ownership costs are low, harsh winters make rust and weather-related damage a concern. A Wisconsin license plate lookup is vital for identifying these issues and closing a deal with confidence. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), Division of Motor Vehicles Phone Number: (608) 264-7447 Plate Number Format and Design: ABC-1234 Wisconsin plates often highlight agriculture or the state’s motto, “America’s Dairyland.”

Wyoming In 2022, Wyoming saw one of the highest car ownership rates in the nation, with 96.2% of households having access to at least one vehicle. Major markets like Cheyenne, Casper, and Laramie have an exciting market for used cars. Given Wyoming’s 10th-place ranking for car accident deaths, a Wyoming license plate lookup is essential for a low-risk and reliable used car purchase. License Plate Issuing Agency / DMV: Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT), Motor Vehicle Services Phone Number: (307) 777-4717 Plate Number Format and Design: 1-ABC123 Wyoming plates feature a bucking horse and rider, symbolizing the state’s cowboy heritage.

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The Essential Role of License Plate Number Search

in Used Car Sales Across the US

The diversity in used car markets across the U.S. underscores the importance of performing a license plate lookup, whether you’re in a bustling city or a rural area. Each state has unique factors—like high insurance premiums in New York and California or low theft rates in Vermont. In states with higher theft risks like Nevada or New Mexico, or frequent accidents like Tennessee and South Carolina, license plate checks are invaluable for avoiding fraud and uncovering hidden histories. Even in states with fewer risks, such as Nebraska or Wisconsin, these checks can reveal critical issues like rust damage or undisclosed repairs.

No matter where you’re buying, a license plate search provides access to vital information, from lien statuses to accident histories. This simple tool can make all the difference in protecting your investment and securing peace of mind.

How to Use the VinAudit License Plate Lookup service:

1. Gather Vehicle Information, making sure you have the correct license plate number and the state of registration using our guide.
2. Enter the License Plate Number and the State in the appropriate field.
3. Review the Report and analyze the detailed information provided to ensure the vehicle meets your standards before making a purchase.

With these easy steps, you’ll be equipped to make a well-informed decision and protect your investment.