Michigan License Plate Lookup
The number of stolen vehicles in Michigan has risen significantly, with more than 21,000 vehicles stolen in 2021 and around 25,000 in 2022. Use the Michigan license plate lookup tool to expose any hidden truth before buying the vehicle.
Table of Contents
What is a Michigan License Plate Lookup?
The Michigan license plate lookup is a service you can use to look up the license plate number and get a vehicle history report. This service can be used for both sellers and buyers to run a background check before any transaction to avoid getting scammed.
By using the license plate number, you can get a vehicle history report, which will show you the complete information about the vehicle, like accident records, auction history, past ownership, warranty coverage, past vehicle usage, and the real odometer reading.
Free Michigan License Plate Lookup
You can get a free license plate lookup by simply entering the license plate in the search bar and waiting for the report to be automatically generated. Please remember that you will not get a full report; the information can help you in the right direction to get the full vehicle history report.
For your convenience, here’s what you will get with our free Michigan license plate lookup:
- Associated VIN number
- Year, Make, and Model
- Country of Origin
- Market Value
- Transmission Type
- Fuel Type
- Drive Type
- Body Type
- Trim Information
- MSRP
- Engine Specifications
- Dimensions
- VIN
- Engine Value
- MSRP
- Manufacturer
- Fuel Type
- Body Type
- Year & Model
- Transmission
- Vehicle Type
- Sales Record
- Drive Type
- Mileage
- Market Value
- Doors
- Country of Origin
Why Conduct a Michigan License Plate Lookup?
Conducting a license plate lookup in Michigan is important for sellers and buyers. For buyers, it provides a legitimate document about the vehicle, including its history, accident records, title status, and odometer check. This information is best known upon purchasing the vehicle to avoid getting scammed by the seller.
Moreover, sellers benefit from providing actual information to buyers, which could enhance their reputation, build credibility and trust with buyers, and facilitate smooth and safe transactions.
What Information Can You Access in the Full Vehicle History Report?
The paid license plate lookup has detailed information about the vehicle, including its past report. The detailed information provided by the paid license plate lookup includes:
Vehicle Specification
Check the detailed vehicle specifications like trim, drive type, country of origin, fuel type, engine capacity, MSRP, and standard seating. Examine this section to ensure that the vehicle matches your needs and budget.
Accident History
Highlight the records of the past accident of the vehicle. In this section, you’ll see the date, location, and how many times the vehicle has been in an accident.
Past Ownership History
Highlights the timeline of previous owners, like the ownership duration, the location, and the year of purchase. However, personal information, such as names and residential addresses, remains protected and cannot be disclosed.
Past Vehicle Usage
Check how the vehicle was used in the past by its previous owner(s). See if it was used as a personal vehicle, rented, leased, or a government vehicle, because different usage has different wear and tear.
Auction History
Discloses whether the vehicle was sold at auction, indicating market interest or quality issues. In this section, you can see the location, date of auction, and the final price of the vehicle. In addition to that, you will also get up to 10 pictures that show the vehicle’s condition during the auction.
Title Status
Verifies the title type, like clean, salvaged, rebuilt, or branded, to evaluate legal and physical status. Ensure that the vehicle’s title is clean before you proceed to purchase the vehicle.
Lien/Loan Records
Identifies any unpaid loans or liens that could impact the transfer of ownership. Review this section to confirm whether the previous owner has cleared all loan or lien records to ensure a swift ownership transfer process.
Open Recalls
List unresolved recalls, ensuring you’re aware of potential safety concerns. In this section, you’ll see the date of recalls, the causes of recalls, and how the manufacturer handled the recalls.
Theft Records
Confirms whether the vehicle was reported stolen, assuring its legitimacy and security. You’ll get complete information on the date, location, and data source of the stolen vehicle.
Odometer Reading
Validates the mileage for accuracy and estimates the vehicle’s usage and wear. Check the recorded mileage along with the date, and get the last recorded mileage of the vehicle.
Service and Maintenance History
Provides details of past servicing and repairs to show how well the vehicle was maintained. See where the service took place, the date, and what components were fixed.
Warranty Coverage
See if the vehicle is still covered by existing warranty, such as basic, corrosion protection, roadside assistance, and maintenance warranty. Also, you’ll get to see the months and mileage limit of each warranty.
Why Michigan License Plate Lookup is Important?
Gideon wanted to buy a used 2016 TESLA MODEL from a big dealership. Before he paid for the down payment, he decided to use the license plate lookup and get the vehicle history report. Here’s what Gideon saw on the report.
Actual Condition
- 1 accident record
- 1 Record(s) of damage
- 1 specific event reported
- 1 auction record
- 2 lien or loan record
Seller’s Claim
- Never been in an accident
- Clean title
- Cleared lien/loan
- Had no damage
- A bit lower than the other dealership
Actual Condition
- To help you examine all the hidden information that wasn’t disclosed by the seller.
Outcome
- The buyer did not continue buying the vehicle because it had been in four accidents.
How Does the Michigan License Plate Lookup Work?
To perform a license plate lookup, follow these steps to get your vehicle history report in less than a minute.
Enter the License Plate Number
First of all, find the license plate number of the vehicle you want to purchase. If you do not have it, ask the seller/salesperson directly.
Fill Out the Form
Write down the license plate number on the form above and click the button to submit the form.
Lookup MI License Plate
Wait for seconds for the report to be generated, proceed to payment, and then you will get the full vehicle history report.
Why Use Our Michigan License Plate Lookup?
License Plate Regulations in Michigan
In Michigan, vehicles must display a valid license plate with a current registration tab. Since 1981, only rear plates have been required; front plates have been unnecessary.
The Michigan Secretary of State oversees vehicle registration and license plates. All vehicles and trailers used on Michigan’s roads must be registered and have a license plate. This includes passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles, and trailers.
License plates must be securely fastened horizontally at least 12 inches from the ground and kept clean and legible. Operating a vehicle with an obstructed or improperly displayed license plate can result in fines or penalties.
Types and Design of Michigan License Plate
The standard Michigan license plate has a simple design. It features a blue and white background for a clear, professional look; the numbering format is ABC 1234. The standard plates display the state name at the top and the slogan “Pure Michigan” at the bottom, promoting Michigan’s natural beauty.
The government of Michigan issued different types of license plates in addition to the standard plate to accommodate the needs of its residents. Here is the list of license plates you can choose from:
Types of License Plates in Michigan
Standard Plates
Standard plates are the most commonly used plates in Michigan. At the bottom, they display the “Pure Michigan” slogan, representing the state’s commitment to its natural beauty and resources. The plates feature a simple design with a white background and blue text. They are issued for most passenger vehicles and are required for everyday use on the road.
Personalized Plates
Specialty plates support various causes, organizations, or initiatives, such as environmental conservation, universities, or charitable programs. Each plate design reflects its purpose, making them a great way to show support while driving. These plates may have additional costs, which often go toward supporting the associated cause or organization.
Historical Plates
Historical plates are designed for vehicles at least 25 years old and are primarily used for exhibitions, parades, or other special events. They indicate the vehicle’s vintage status and state that it cannot be used for everyday transportation. Therefore, they are ideal for collectors or enthusiasts who preserve classic automobiles.
Military Plates
Military plates honor veterans and active-duty members of the armed forces. They include designs for specific branches, such as the Army, Navy, or Air Force, and plates recognizing honors like the Purple Heart or Medal of Honor. Applicants must provide proof of military service to qualify.
Dealer Plates
Dealer plates are issued to licensed vehicle dealers, allowing them to use a single plate on multiple vehicles in their inventory. These plates simplify the process for dealers when demonstrating or delivering vehicles. Dealer plates are strictly regulated to prevent misuse and ensure compliance with Michigan’s vehicle laws.
License Plate Cost in Michigan
- Standard Michigan Plates: $5 plus registration & personalization fees.
- Dealer Plates: $10 per plate.
- Specialty or fundraising plates cost more due to added fees for causes or designs
How to Register and Transfer a Car Title in Michigan?
To change ownership of a vehicle, you must go to a Secretary of State office and bring certain documents.
- Present the original signed title.
- Provide proof of Michigan No-Fault insurance.
- Pay a $15 title transfer fee.
- If you delay transferring for more than 15 days after the sale, there is a late fee.
How to Transfer License Plates in Michigan?
In Michigan, a license plate can be transferred to another vehicle you own or one you are buying, as long as the vehicle type matches. This means a plate from a car can only go to another car, while a truck plate must stay with another truck.
Before going to the SOS office:
- Gather the right documents, such as your current plate’s registration, the title for the new vehicle, and your driver’s license or ID.
- Make sure the plate is eligible for transfer. Plates cannot be moved between different vehicle types.
At the Secretary of State (SOS) office:
- Submit the documents to apply for the transfer.
- Pay the transfer fee. This fee is usually cheaper than buying a new plate, but you may also need to pay a registration difference fee if the new vehicle’s fees are higher.
If buying from a dealership:
- The dealership can take care of the plate transfer for you when buying a used vehicle.
- They handle the paperwork and submit the forms to complete the process.
Michigan License Plate Lookup – What’s Allowed?
In Michigan, a license plate lookup must follow the rules under the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) and state laws.
- You may view non-personal vehicle history: registration status, title transactions, recalls, and accident or theft records.
- But you cannot access sensitive personal info like names, addresses, phone numbers, or driver’s license numbers unless you have the owner’s written consent or a valid legal reason.
Fun Facts about Michigan
- In the 1980s, Michigan changed its vehicle registration system to allow renewals based on the owner’s birthday rather than a fixed date at the end of February.
- Michigan issued its first official license plates in 1910, made of heavy cast iron sealed with porcelain, before shifting to embossed steel plates around 1915.
- The state used the slogan “Water Wonderland” on its plates from 1954 to 1964, changing slightly to “Water-Winter Wonderland” until 1967, reflecting Michigan’s famous natural attractions.
Do More Than Just a License Plate Lookup
VIN Decoder
Window Sticker Lookup
Build Sheet by VIN
Classic Car History Report
License Plate Lookup By States
Aside from Michigan, our license plate lookup service covers other states, as listed below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan License Plate Lookup
Q. Can I transfer car plates to my new car?
A. The concept of license plate ownership, where they follow the individual rather than the vehicle, is common in most states, making the transfer of plates to a new car a lawful action.
Q. Is it bad if someone knows your license plate?
A. Letting people see your license plate can lead to them finding out a lot about your car’s past, like where it was serviced and if it was in an accident. To avoid these risks, keep your plate private.
Q. Can you see who owns the car with VIN?
A. While the VIN is a 17-character code that uniquely identifies vehicles, it’s important to know that you cannot see who owns a car or address information from any state DMV using it in the United States.
Q. Can people look me up by license plate?
A. The DPPA, or Driver’s Privacy Protection Act, prevents unauthorized access to personal information found in license plates and motor vehicle records. This protection covers sensitive data such as your Social Security number, name, address, and driver’s license number, ensuring drivers’ privacy is upheld.
Q. Can I find out who owns a vehicle by using a Michigan license plate number?
A. No. Personal details such as names, addresses, or contact information are protected under privacy laws. To access this type of data, you must have the vehicle owner’s written consent.
Q. Is it possible to identify vehicle owners through a Michigan license plate lookup?
A. Not directly. A Michigan plate search will only show details about the vehicle itself, like registration and title history, but never private information about the driver or owner.
Q. What do I need to register a vehicle and get Michigan license plates?
A. To register, visit a Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) office with these documents: driver’s license, proof of no-fault insurance, the vehicle title, and payment for fees. Once completed, your license plates are mailed to you within a few weeks.
