Ohio License Plate Lookup

In 2023, Ohio reported 31,647 vehicle thefts, ranking it as the 8th highest state for motor vehicle thefts in the United States. If you’re buying a used vehicle, conducting an Ohio license plate lookup can help you spot these vehicles and avoid them.

Search by VIN Number

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

Yes, you can perform a free Ohio license plate lookup! This tool allows you to quickly verify the vehicle’s specifications, features, mileage, and sales history.

Here’s what you can check for free:

VIN
Engine Value
MSRP
Manufacturer
Fuel Type
Body Type
Year & Model
Transmission

What Can You Learn from License Plate History Records

When you choose a full vehicle history report, you gain access to detailed information that aids in making a more informed decision. A full Ohio license plate lookup offers insights that could help you avoid costly mistakes and make sure you’re making a good investment.

Here’s what you can expect from a complete vehicle history report:

Vehicle Specifications

Detailed info about the car’s make, model, year, transmission, engine type, and other features.

Ownership History

Information on previous owners, ownership durations, and locations where the vehicle was registered.

Accident Reports

Detailed reports on past accidents, including severity, location, and damage extent.

Sales Records

View previous sales history, including sale prices, seller type, transaction locations, photos and any documented damages or repairs.

Auction History

Find out if the vehicle has been auctioned, along with auction dates, sale prices, up to ten photos, and auction house details.

Lien and Loan Records

Check for any existing liens or loans that could impact the transfer of ownership.

Theft Records

Verify if the vehicle has ever been reported stolen or linked to theft-related incidents.

Mileage Records

Check recorded mileage to assess wear and tear over time.

Title Information

Identify whether the title is clean, salvaged, or branded, affecting the car’s safety and value

Market Value Estimation

Get an estimated market value to ensure fair pricing when buying or selling.

Recalls and Safety Issues

Look up any active recalls or safety concerns that may impact the vehicle’s reliability.

Service History

Access maintenance and repair records, including service dates, types of work performed, and parts replaced.

Why Look Up License Plates?

The average consumer may not be able to detect odometer fraud simply by inspecting a vehicle. Scammers can easily roll back digital odometers using devices purchased online for as little as $300, making it important for buyers to verify vehicle history.

Some other reasons why you need to look up license plates 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 Ohio 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.

Ohio Laws/Legislation on License Plates

Ohio law requires that license plates be displayed in plain view on the rear of a vehicle. They must be securely fastened and not covered by anything that obstructs visibility. Note that Ohio does not require a front license plate. However, if a front license plate is displayed, it must be identical to the rear license plate.

Vehicle Registration and Plate Requirements

All vehicles must be registered with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) after purchase.
License plates must be displayed in plain view and without obstruction on the rear of the vehicle.
Validation stickers must be displayed on the rear license plate of a vehicle with two license plates.
Personalized plates can have a maximum of 7 characters with 2 spaces or 6 characters with 3 spaces.
Operating a motor vehicle with an invalid license plate is a misdemeanor. You can find more information about license plate laws in Ohio in the Ohio Revised Code

Renewing Your Ohio License Plate

You can renew your registration up to 90 days before it expires either online, in person, or by mail.

Application materials will include either a valid Ohio driver’s license and/or State of Ohio ID card, power of attorney documents if your vehicle was leased, proof of your Ohio residence, and proof that you have fulfilled financial responsibility:

Ohio License Plate Design and Format

Ohio license plates come in various designs, including standard, personalized, and specialty plates. The design typically features a white background with blue and red lettering and the state name and plate number.

Specialty plates may display logos or themes related to sports, causes, or military service. Plates are also available with reflective sheeting to improve visibility at night.

Types of Ohio License Plates

There are many types of plates offered in Ohio. Here are some of the regular and specialty plates you can find in the State:

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

Can you look up a license plate in Ohio?

Yes, you can easily look up a license plate in Ohio easily with the help of our accurate license plate check tool. All you need to do is enter the license plate number into the form on this page, and you will instantly get a concise vehicle history report.

Can I find someone’s name by their license plate?

an I find someone’s name by their license plate?

No, you cannot find someone’s name with their license plate as it is not open to the general public. You can, however, find the number of owners, duration of ownership, and locations, as well as a map showing locations.

Is it illegal to look up a license plate number?

No, it is not illegal to look up a license plate number with a car license plate check tool.

How can I run an Ohio license plate?

To get an Ohio plate check, you only need to enter the license plate number into the form on this page. After submitting the form, you will find vehicle specifications and past records in a downloadable report.