Wisconsin License Plate Search

Buying a used vehicle sometimes requires extra steps to avoid getting scammed and buying problematic vehicles. You can perform individual background checks on the vehicle using the license plate number to save time and money. Simply use our Wisconsin license plate search to uncover a used vehicle’s history prior to its purchase. Lookup any WI license plate without hassle..

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The Importance of License Plate Lookup

A Wisconsin family is suing Chase Auto Finance for emotional and property damages after their car was repossessed despite having settled all debts. The family’s lawyers seek compensation and highlight what they claim is a systemic issue with auto repossessions. 

The couple had agreed to a repayment plan and had Chase confirm their debt as repaid, but their car was repossessed weeks later. The case underscores concerns about repossession practices, and the family is requesting a jury trial while Chase has moved to compel arbitration.

This situation underscores the importance of conducting a vehicle history report lookup before purchasing a used car. A vehicle history report can reveal if a car has been repossessed, involved in accidents, or has any title issues.

Can I Get a Free Wisconsin License Plate Lookup?

Yes, you can get a free license plate lookup from our service. However, the information provided in the report differs from that of the fully paid service. 

Before buying a used vehicle, you can use the basic vehicle report to check its sales history, auction records, odometer, damage reports, title check, and theft records. 

What is the Difference Between the Free and Paid License Plate Lookup?

The key difference between paid and free versions of the vehicle history lookup. While free reports offer basic details, paid versions provide a comprehensive view of the car’s history.

Below is the detailed information available in the paid report:

Vehicle Specifications:

Confirm the car’s year, make, model, trim, and engine type to ensure its authenticity and suitability for your needs.

Accident History:

 Access detailed records of past accidents, including the extent of damage and completed repairs, to evaluate the car’s condition.

Ownership History:

Learn about the car’s previous owners, how long they owned it, and the level of care it received.

Sales Records:

Review past ownership changes and sales data to understand the car’s transaction history.

Auction History:

Find out if the car was sold at auction, which could indicate quality issues or market interest.

Title Status:

Verify whether the title is clean, salvaged, rebuilt, or branded to assess its legal and physical status.

Lien Records:

 Check for existing liens or unpaid loans that might complicate ownership transfer.

Open Recalls:

Identify any unresolved safety recalls or defects that require attention.

Theft Records:

Confirm that the vehicle has not been reported stolen to ensure its legitimacy.

Odometer Reading:

Validate the mileage to check for accuracy and estimate the car’s usage and wear.

Service and Maintenance History:

Examine past repairs and servicing records to understand how well the vehicle was maintained.

How Does the License Plate Lookup Work?

To perform a license plate lookup, follow this step to get your report in less than five minutes.

Video: How to Lookup a Wisconsin License Plate

Step 1: Enter the License Plate Number

You can find the license plate number on the front and back of the vehicle. Fill out the form on this page and submit it.

Step 2: Review and Purchase

Check vehicle specifications and features and complete your purchase.

Step 3: Access Your Report

Access your vehicle history report instantly. Download and print it easily.

The steps of performing a license plate lookup are simple. You just need to put the license number on the form, hit the “Search” button, and wait for the report to be generated. After generating the report, you can download the PDF or print it directly from the web.

License Plate Regulation in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation governs the license plate regulation to ensure proper identification and regulation. 

License Plate Placement

Wisconsin Law requires that most vehicles display the license plate on both sides of the plates. According to Wisconsin Statute 341.15(1), when two plates are issued, one must be attached to the front and one to the rear. This requirement aids in vehicle identification and law enforcement.

Vehicle Types and Requiring License Plate

All motor vehicles operated on the road must have two pieces of license plates mounted on the front and rear sides of the vehicle. These are the types of vehicles that require license plates:
Passenger cars

  • Trucks
  • Motorcycles
  • Trailers
  • Mopeds

Certain vehicles, like mopeds and motorcycles, have specific plate designs and requirements.

Wisconsin License Plate Types and Design

Wisconsin License Plate Lookup

Wisconsin’s standard license plate features a clean, straightforward design representing the state’s identity and values.

Design

The standard plate has a white background with black lettering, making it easy to read. It includes a small red decal with the word “Wisconsin” written in bold, accompanied by the state’s slogan and imagery to reflect its culture and heritage.

Format

The plate number format typically includes letters and numbers, such as “ABC-1234” or “123-ABC.” This standardized format ensures that every vehicle registered in the state is unique.

Slogan

The plate carries Wisconsin’s slogan, “America’s Dairyland,” celebrating its status as a leading dairy producer in the United States. This slogan highlights the state’s agricultural pride and history.

Types of License Plates in Wisconsin

Wisconsin offers various license plate types to meet the needs of different vehicle owners, professions, and interests. Here’s an overview of the main categories:

  • Standard plates are issued for passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and trucks. They display the standard Wisconsin design and are the most common type used on public roads.
  • Specialty Plates: Personalized plates allow owners to create unique messages, adhering to state guidelines. Additionally, there are plates for antique and collector vehicles, specifically for cars older than 20 and 40 years.
  • Military and Professional Plates: Veterans, active-duty military personnel, and certified professionals like firefighters and EMS workers can apply for plates honoring their service or profession.
  • Special Interest Plates: Wisconsin offers plates that promote universities, charitable causes, and environmental conservation. Examples include university logo plates and wildlife conservation designs.
  • Temporary and Dealer Plates: Temporary plates are issued for short-term use while waiting for permanent registration. Auto dealers use dealer plates for vehicles they own or are selling.

Get More Than a License Plate Lookup

Easily access all the tools you need to get a full car background check and make the best decisions:

VIN Decoder

Our VIN decoder does the trick if the license plate number is unavailable. Quickly decode your VIN to access detailed information from factory details to original specifications and all vehicle history records.

Window Stickers

Get a copy of the original window sticker of any vehicle, showing all the options, packages, standard features and equipment, safety ratings, fuel economy, and factory-installed parts your vehicle came with.

Build Sheets for Classic Vehicles

Like window stickers, you can get build sheets for classic or vintage vehicles with our build sheet lookup tool for classic vehicles with the VIN only. View specifications, features, color, pricing, and more.

Classic Car History Report

You won’t find this anywhere else! Our classic car VIN check provides exclusive records for all old vehicles, giving you a full classic car vehicle history report that Carfax and AutoCheck can’t. Check a vintage car’s authenticity today!

Fun Facts about Wisconsin

Plate of the Year Award: The “Sesquicentennial of Wisconsin’s Statehood” plate, issued from 1997 to 1999, won the “Plate of the Year” award for best new optional license plate in 1997 by the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association. This marked a significant recognition for Wisconsin’s license plate design.

License Plate Lookup By States

Frequently Asked Questions

In Wisconsin, your vehicle must have a front and back license plate. This legal requirement is specified in Wisconsin State Statute 341.15(1). This law mandates that vehicle owners properly display both plates.

Statutory reference. s.218.10, s.341.51. DMV inquiry. MV (motor vehicle), MC (motorcycle).

Not really. Suppose they use a third-party license plate lookup tool. Most likely, they are checking a license plate number, which can show you a car’s history. This includes maintenance records, accidents, mileage, and even if it was repossessed.

Quick License Plate Lookup

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