Alabama License Plate Lookup
In Alabama, a traffic crash happened every 3 minutes and 38 seconds in 2022, possibly affecting many used cars for sale today. Check any vehicle’s history for hidden records with an Alabama license plate lookup to protect your investment.
Table of Contents
Can You Look Up a License Plate for Free in Alabama?
Yes, you can perform a free license plate check in Alabama. While these free checks offer basic information, they are a great starting point for understanding a vehicle’s history. For a more detailed report, however, you’ll need to invest in a full license plate lookup.
Here’s what you can check with our tool for free:
- 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
- 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
What Can You Learn from License Plate History Records
While a free check points you in the right direction, past history records will provide you with everything necessary to avoid costly mistakes and make the best decision in the used car market.
Some information you can find through license plate history records are:
Vehicle Specifications
This includes detailed insights into the car’s make, model, year, transmission, engine type, and other key features.
Ownership History
You can find out how many owners a vehicle has in the past, where it was registered, and how long the previous owners had it.
Accident Reports
Learn about past accidents (if any) and the severity, location, and damages sustained.
Sales Records
Details on past sales, including sale prices, locations, and any damage or repairs disclosed by the seller.
Auction History
If the car has been sold at auction, you can find the sale dates and prices, as well as the condition of the vehicle and up to ten photos.
Lien and Loan Records
Be aware of any outstanding loans or liens, which can affect ownership transfer.
Theft Records
Check if the car has been reported stolen or involved in a theft
Mileage Records
Verify the mileage and ensure it aligns with the car’s wear and tear.
Title Information
Find out if the vehicle has a clean title or has been salvaged or rebuilt, which can impact its safety and value.
Market Value Estimation
Get a fair price estimate to make sure you’re not overpaying or underpricing.
Recalls and Safety Issues
Check for ongoing recalls or unresolved safety concerns.
Service History
Access detailed records of maintenance and repairs to better understand the car’s condition.
Why Look Up License Plates?
For starters, one reason you should decode your vehicle’s license plate is to avoid stolen cars. In 2023, there were over 1 million stolen vehicles on the streets, and there’s a big chance you might be looking at one. Protect yourself with an Alabama license plate search today.
Other reasons why you should always check a vehicle’s history before buying or selling are:
For Buyers
For Sellers
- Verify Vehicle Authenticity: Ensure the car matches its description and hasn't been misrepresented.
- Identify Hidden Issues: Check for past accidents, liens, theft reports, or title issues that could impact the car's value.
- Know What You're Paying For: Get a reliable market value estimate to avoid overpaying.
- Protect Yourself from Fraud: Verify the vehicle isn't stolen to prevent legal troubles and financial loss.
- Improve Transparency: Provide clear and verifiable details to increase transparency.
- Price Your Vehicle Accurately: Use accurate market data to price all vehicles in your inventory fairly.
- Avoid Future Disputes: Share all relevant information upfront to avoid post-sale conflicts.
- Increase Your Sales Chances: Buyers are more likely to purchase quickly when they have confidence in the vehicle's history.
How To Lookup An Alabama License Plate Number
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.
Alabama License Plate Laws & Legislation
In Alabama, all vehicles are expected to possess valid license plates. The state issues a license plate for each registered vehicle, and these plates must be renewed annually. The laws ensure that all vehicles on the road are properly registered and comply with safety regulations.
Vehicle Registration and Plate Requirements in Alabama
- All vehicles must be registered in the State of Alabama.
- Registration will require the title (or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin), proof of insurance, a valid driver's license, bill of sale, and certificate of inspection (depending on the situation).
- Alabama regulations mandate vehicles to have a rear license plate only. The front one is not required on your vehicle.
- All registration anniversaries are when plates are renewed annually.
- Specialty plates are available for veterans, the environment, and other special interest areas.
Renewal of Alabama License Plates
You can renew any Alabama license plate via mail, online at the Alabama Department of Revenue website, or in person at the local office. You need to ensure you have your vehicle’s registration information and a payment method for renewal fees.
Note that late fees are $15.00 plus interest and cannot be waived.
Alabama License Plate Design and Format
Alabama license plates feature a colorful design with the state’s name and a unique alphanumeric code. The plate also includes a depiction of the state’s official seal or other themed designs, depending on the type of plate you choose. Most plates are blue, white, and yellow, with a large “ALABAMA” at the top.
Types of Alabama License Plates
Alabama offers several types of license plates, including:
- Standard Plates
- Personalized Plates
- Specialty Plates (for veterans, environmental causes, colleges, and more)
- Commercial Plates
- Government Plates
- Temporary Plates
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!
License Plate Lookup By States
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use our tool to look up an Alabama license plate. The lookup provides detailed vehicle information, including ownership history, accident records, and more, helping you make accurate decisions when buying or selling a car.
A license plate gives you access to key vehicle information such as the make, model, year, accident history, ownership records, and more. It helps you view hidden issues like previous damages, stolen vehicle reports, or unpaid liens that could affect the car’s value.
Our lookup service provides the best free license plate lookup. We provide basic details like the vehicle’s VIN, sales record, market value, vehicle specifications, features, MSRP, and more for free. For a complete history, including accident reports, service history, and recalls, you’ll need a detailed report, which can be obtained through a paid lookup.
No, a license plate lookup only provides information about the vehicle, not the person associated with it. However, it gives you access to vehicle history and specifications.
