Arkansas License Plate Lookup

Use the Arkansas License Plate Lookup and get the vehicle history report before buying a used car. See all the hidden information of the vehicle, like the accident history, recalls, past owners, and the real mileage records, by using the license plate number.

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Our support team may contact you if we find issues with your report or sticker.
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Table of Contents

What is an Arkansas License Plate Lookup?

An Arkansas license plate lookup is a reliable way to run a background check before buying or selling a used vehicle. By using our Arkansas license plate search, you can instantly access a detailed vehicle history report. The vehicle history report includes details such as accident history, title status, recall records, ownership transfers, mileage verification, and complete vehicle specifications. 

Can You Look Up a License Plate for Free in Arkansas?

Yes, you can perform a free license plate lookup in Arkansas. This lookup can provide a wealth of information about the vehicle, such as:

What Can You Learn from License Plate History Records?

A license plate history report in Arkansas provides comprehensive information that aids in making informed decisions when buying or selling a car. Each detail is crucial for evaluating the car’s reliability and avoiding future issues:

Vehicle Specification

Get a detailed overview of the car’s specification, fuel type, drive type, and country of origin. Check this section to ensure the vehicle meets your needs and standards.

Ownership History

See how many previous owners the car has had, along with the duration of each ownership, to assess overall care and reliability. In this section, you can see the period of ownership, the location, and the year of purchase.

Accident Records

Find out if the vehicle has been in any accidents. See the date of the accident and the location where it happened. In this section, you will also see the damage to the vehicle.

Sales Records:

Review the sales history of the car, including both dealership and private party transactions, for better price evaluation.

Mileage Records:

Check for odometer readings over time to spot any inconsistencies or signs of tampering. In this section, you will see the recorded mileage with the date and the last recorded mileage of the vehicle.

Auction History and Photos:

See if the car has been sold at auctions and review photos that show its condition during those events. Aside from the photos, you will see the date, location, and the final price of the vehicle.

Lien/Loan Records:

Identify whether there are outstanding loans tied to the vehicle to avoid repossession risks after purchase.

Title Information:

Verify whether the car has a clean title or if it is marked as salvage, rebuilt, or branded in any way. Make sure that the vehicle’s title is clean so you do not face a hard time when registering or insuring the vehicle.

Theft Records:

Confirm that the vehicle hasn’t been reported stolen, preventing potential legal or ownership disputes. Check the date, location, and data source of this information. Be aware not to buy a stolen vehicle because it’s dangerous.

Estimated Market Value

Understand the car’s current worth based on its mileage, history, and condition to avoid overpaying. This helps you negotiate confidently and ensures you’re paying a fair market price.

Service and Maintenance History:

Look into past maintenance, such as oil changes, repairs, and part replacements to gauge how well the car was cared for. Consistent service records usually mean the vehicle will be more reliable long-term.

Recall Information:

Check for unresolved manufacturer recalls that could affect the vehicle’s safety or performance. See the date of recalls, what caused the problem, and how the manufacturer handles the recalled vehicle.

Why Buyers and Sellers Need Arkansas License Plate Lookup

License plate lookup is vital for anyone involved in vehicle transactions in Arkansas. It ensures transparency and trust between buyers and sellers.

How to Lookup an Arkansas License Plate Number?

If you want to use our license plate lookup service, follow these steps to get it done.

Enter the License Plate Number

Find the license plate number of the vehicle you want to check. Once you have it, fill in the form above with the license plate number.

Review and Purchase

Preview and vehicle details, and proceed to payment to get the full vehicle history report.

Get Your Report

Wait for a few seconds for the report to be generated. After that, don’t forget to download the vehicle history report in PDF format.

How a Vehicle History Report Helps Show Red Flags

Jean wanted to buy a used  2016 TESLA MODEL from a forum on social media. The seller said that the vehicle has a clean title, has never been involved in an accident, and has lower mileage records. Tempted by the discount, Jean wanted to buy the car right away without thinking twice. However, his friend asked him to look up the license plate and get the report. 

Here’s what the report shows.

Actual Condition

  • 1 accident record
  • The vehicle has a branded title
  • 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
  • Low mileage
  • Clean title
  • 30% discount

Outcome

  • Jean decided to call it off and find something else
  • A 30% discount means nothing if the vehicle has too many red flags 

Why Checking the License Plate is a MUST

  • The license plate lookup helps the buyer get a vehicle history report and shows them the REAL and accurate information of the vehicle.

Arkansas Laws/Legislation on License Plates

In Arkansas, vehicle license plate regulations are enforced by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). Here are key details:

  • Arkansas requires license plates on the rear of most vehicles.
  • Specialty vehicles like trailers and motorcycles have different requirements.
  • Personalized plates are available for an additional fee.
  • Plates must be visible and unobstructed at all times.
  • Lost or damaged plates must be replaced promptly through the DFA.

Arkansas License Plate Design and Format

Arkansas_license_plate

Arkansas plates often feature the state’s natural beauty, including the outline of Arkansas or slogans like “The Natural State.” They are alphanumeric, combining letters and numbers in various patterns, for the newest edition of the Arkansas license plate is ABC 12D.

Types of License Plates in Arkansas

Arkansas offers a variety of license plates to fit different needs, ranging from everyday passenger use to commercial and specialty purposes. Whether drivers want a standard plate, a custom design, or a temporary option, the state provides choices for personalization, recognition, and compliance.

Standard Plates

Standard plates are the most common type issued in Arkansas. They are designed for everyday passenger vehicles and follow the state’s basic format. These plates serve as the default option when registering a car and meet all legal requirements. The standard plate in Arkansas costs $1.

Personalized Plates

Personalized plates allow drivers to customize their license plates with unique letters, numbers, or phrases. Many residents choose them to showcase their name, hobbies, or a creative message, making vehicles more distinctive while still meeting the state’s registration standards.

Specialty Plates

Standard plates are the most common type issued in Arkansas. They are designed for everyday passenger vehicles and follow the state’s basic format. These plates serve as the default option when registering a car and meet all legal requirements. The standard plate in Arkansas costs $1.

Commercial Vehicle Plates

Commercial plates are issued to vehicles used for business or transport purposes. These include trucks, delivery vans, and other vehicles engaged in commercial activities. Fees and requirements depend on the type and weight of the vehicle being registered.

Temporary Plates

Temporary plates provide short-term registration until permanent plates are issued. They are commonly used for newly purchased vehicles, allowing legal operation on Arkansas roads while the official plates and registration documents are processed by the DMV.

License Plate Frame Rules in Arkansas and Fees

License plate frames are permitted in Arkansas as long as they do not obscure any part of the plate’s information, including the letters, numbers, decals, or validation tabs. Violations of display laws may lead to citations. Arkansas law (A.C.A. § 27-14-716) mandates that the plate must be clearly visible, legible, and securely fastened, with no cover or frame that reduces its readability


  • Law: Frames must not hide or cover any alphanumeric characters, inspection decals, or expiry tags.
  • Penalty: Offenders can be fined between $100 and $250 for improper displays.
  • Example: A frame that obscures part of the plate’s number or blocks visibility in any way may lead to a fine under enforcement.

Getting a License Plate in Arkansas

If you are a new resident in Arkansas and need to get a license plate in Arkansas, you must register your vehicle within 60 days of moving. Registration can be completed at any state revenue office or online through the myDMV platform.
To complete the process, you’ll need to provide: 

  • The vehicle title (or out-of-state title if recently moved)
  • A completed Vehicle Registration Application form
  • Federal odometer statement
  • Proof of insurance
  • Payment for required fees
The registration cost ranges from $17 to $30, with an additional $1 transfer fee and $10 title fee. Payments may be made by credit card or check.

Renewing License Plate in Arkansas

In Arkansas, vehicles require only one license plate with registration stickers, and renewal is mandatory one year after expiration. The Office of Motor Vehicles, under the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA), sends a pre-renewal notice 90 days before the due date and a follow-up reminder seven days later.
The renewal notice includes the due date, required fees, and any restrictions. Unlike some states, Arkansas does not require emissions inspections before renewal.

Here are the steps you can follow to renew the license plate in Arkansas: 

  • Check your renewal notice for due date and fee details.
  • Go to the DFA online registration platform or prepare to visit in person/by mail.
  • If you don’t have the reminder, use your license plate number, the last four digits of VIN, and ZIP code.
  • Submit payment and complete the renewal.

Arkansas License Plate Replacement

In Arkansas, the license plate must be replaced if they are lost, stolen, defaced, or damaged. In cases of theft, you should file a police report before requesting a replacement.

Steps to replace your Arkansas license plate:

  1. Report the theft or damage (if applicable) to law enforcement.
  2. Complete the license plate replacement application form.
  3. Pay the replacement fee: $6.50 if picked up in person. $11.50 if mailed to your address.
  4. Receive your new plate and attach it to your vehicle.

How to Transfer License Plates in Arkansas?

Transferring license plates in Arkansas at the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration requires every owner of a license plate to get these primary documents and follow the steps below:

  1. Contact your local Arkansas Office of Motor Vehicles
  2. Provide proof of insurance and identity
  3. Complete the license transfer application form
  4. Pay the transfer fee and applicable taxes
  5. Submit the old plate to finalize the license plate transfer.
  6. Once this process is complete, a new plate, registration, and sticker will be issued. Please note that the sticker must be fastened to the license plate to render it valid.

How to Register and Transfer Vehicle Title in Arkansas?

To register and transfer the state Title in Arkansas, please prepare the necessary documents and follow these steps:

  1. Document requirements: Proof of ownership and insurance, residency and emissions test, the vehicle’s current Arkansas title, Means of identification (Driver’s License or a government-issued identification), and sometimes, a bill of sale.
  2. Visit the Arkansas Motor Vehicles office to complete the application for the certificate of title.
  3. Fee requirements: the title transfer and registration fees.
  4. Submit the form to obtain the new title. This will take between 2 – 3 weeks to arrive.

Why Use Detailed Vehicle History for License Plate Lookup in Arkansas?

Detailed Vehicle History provides reliable and affordable license plate lookup reports packed with over 150 key data points, such as:

  • Vehicle specs and mileage history
  • Accident and theft records
  • Title checks, ownership, and lien status
  • Classic vehicle decoding and auction photos

With this information, Arkansas buyers and sellers can make smarter choices and avoid costly surprises.

Other Vehicle Check Tools

You can get the vehicle report by simply decoding the VIN. Our tools enable you to get the report for modern and classic cars.

VIN Decoder

Use our VIN Decoder to unlock a complete vehicle history report before buying a used car. Check if the car was ever in an accident, stolen, or recalled, and confirm that the specifications match the seller’s claims. 

Window Sticker Lookup

Access the original window sticker of any vehicle using its VIN. Review the factory MSRP, safety ratings from NHTSA, standard and optional features, and more to understand the car’s true value and equipment.

Build Sheet by VIN

Buying a classic car? The build sheet shows the original specs, trims, and installed features, giving you a detailed view of what the vehicle included when it rolled off the production line.

Classic Car History Report

For vintage and classic cars, our VIN-based history report reveals unique details often missing from standard checks. From past ownership to rare specs, this tool helps protect your investment and ensures authenticity before purchase.

License Plate Lookup By States

FAQs About the Arkansas License Plate

Q. Can you look up license plate numbers in Arkansas?

A. Yes. Simply enter the Arkansas plate number into our lookup tool to access the vehicle history report and information. When buying a used car in Arkansas, and you don’t have the vehicle VIN, easily look up the license plate number to make an informed decision.

Q. How do I perform an Arkansas DMV license plate lookup?

A. Enter the Arkansas license plate number to access records such as ownership history, recalls, theft records, title status, and more. Our Arkansas license plate search tool can save you the time and stress of visiting the DMV office.

Q. What can be obtained from an Arkansas license plate lookup free tool?

A. With our free license plate lookup, you can access basic vehicle details like the specs, engine, transmission, drive type, and more. However, to access sensitive information, such as the owner’s name, you must obtain legal authorization or written consent from the vehicle owner.

QHow many license plates are required in Arkansas?

A. License plates issued for motor vehicles other than motorcycles shall be attached to the front and the other to the rear. When one plate is issued, it should be attached to the rear.

Quick License Plate Lookup

10% OFF
question-mark Why do we need your phone number?
Why do we need your phone number?
We'll send your vehicle report or sticker link via text for easy access.
Our support team may contact you if we find issues with your report or sticker.
Your data is never shared with third parties.
Get 10% off your purchases by providing your phone number.

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