Texas License Plate Lookup
With 1 in 10 cars sold in Texas carrying hidden damage, buying a used car in Texas can be a risky transaction. Always utilize our Texas license plate lookup tool to uncover all hidden records and make an informed decision. Enter the plate number to access all available records.
Table of Contents
Can You Look Up a License Plate for Free in Texas?
Yes, you can perform a free license plate lookup in Texas. This service provides details such as:
- The associated VIN number
- Year, make, and model
- Country of origin
- Market value
- Transmission type
- Fuel type
- Drive type
- Body type
- Trim
- 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
What Can You Learn from a License Plate History Record?
A license plate history record offers comprehensive insights into a vehicle’s past, including:
Vehicle Specification:
Detailed information about the car’s features, such as engine size and interior dimensions.
Ownership History:
The number of previous owners and the duration of their ownerships.
Accident Reports
Any reported accidents, including the severity and dates.
Sales Records:
Information on previous sales, including dates and prices.
Mileage Records:
Documented mileage readings over time.
Auction History and Photos:
Details of any auctions the vehicle has been part of, along with available photos.
Lien/Loan Records:
Information on any outstanding loans or liens associated with the vehicle.
Title Information:
Details about the vehicle’s title, including its status and any branding (e.g., salvage, rebuilt).
Theft Records:
Reports indicating if the vehicle was ever stolen and its recovery status.
Estimated Market Value:
Current market valuation based on the vehicle’s condition and history.
Service and Maintenance History:
Records of past services and maintenance work performed.
Recall Information:
Any manufacturer recalls that apply to the vehicle.
The Importance of License Plate Lookup to Texas Car Buyers and Sellers
License plate lookups are vital for both buyers and sellers in Texas.
For Buyers
For Sellers
- Avoiding Fraudulent Transactions Fraudulent vehicle sales, such as selling stolen cars or vehicles with altered VINs, can result in severe legal and financial repercussions. By performing a license plate lookup, buyers can verify the authenticity of the vehicle’s history, including past ownership records and whether it has been reported stolen. Sellers also benefit by demonstrating transparency, which builds trust with potential buyers and ensures a legitimate transaction.
- Confirming Vehicle Safety Safety is paramount when purchasing a vehicle. License plate lookups provide detailed records of reported accidents, structural damage, and recall information. This helps buyers ensure the car is safe and doesn’t pose hidden risks. Sellers can use this to assure buyers that the vehicle is in excellent condition and has no unresolved safety concerns.
- Determining Fair Pricing Accurate pricing relies on understanding the car’s condition and history. A license plate lookup provides insights into previous sales records, market value estimates, and the impact of any accidents or repairs. For buyers, this ensures they’re paying a fair price. For sellers, it prevents them from undervaluing their vehicles and justifies their asking price during negotiations.
- Verifying Legal Ownership Unresolved liens or disputes over ownership can complicate vehicle sales. License plate lookups help identify if there are outstanding loans or ownership claims tied to the car. Buyers can avoid purchasing a vehicle that might later be repossessed, while sellers can verify their right to sell the vehicle, ensuring the transaction is legally sound.
- Highlighting Proper Maintenance A car’s maintenance history speaks volumes about its reliability and performance. License plate lookup records show whether the vehicle has received regular servicing and necessary repairs. Buyers can prioritize well-maintained cars, reducing long-term costs. Sellers can showcase these records as proof that the vehicle has been cared for, increasing buyer confidence.
- Aiding Negotiations The detailed insights from a license plate lookup empower both buyers and sellers during negotiations. Buyers can leverage information about past damages, mileage discrepancies, or unresolved recalls to negotiate a lower price. Sellers, on the other hand, can highlight the car’s positive history, such as a clean accident record or regular maintenance, to justify their asking price and strengthen their position.
How to Lookup a Texas License Plate Number
Video: Looking up a Texas license plate is quick and easy.
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.
State Laws/Legislation on License Plates
In Texas, the Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) oversees vehicle registration and license plates.
- Texas requires vehicles to display both front and rear license plates.
- All motor vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and trailers, must have license plates.
- TxDMV offers various specialty plates for personalization.
Texas License Plate Design and Format

Texas license plates feature a white background with black lettering. The standard format includes three letters followed by four numbers (e.g., ABC-1234). Specialty plates may have different designs and formats.
Types of License Plates in Texas
Texas enhances vehicle monitoring with license plate cameras and offers several types of license plates, including:
- General-Issue Plates: Standard plates assigned by TxDMV.
- Personalized Plates: Customizable plates with chosen letter and number combinations.
- Specialty Plates: Plates supporting various causes and organizations or displaying specific themes.
- Disabled Person Plates: For individuals with disabilities. This provides special parking privileges.
- Antique and Classic Plates: For vehicles over a certain age, used primarily for exhibitions.
How to Transfer License Plates in Texas?
In Texas, license plates can be transferred from older vehicles to newer ones owned by the same person. Here are some tips on how to do this.
- Go to txdmv.gov and obtain an application form.
- Complete the application form.
- Keep your proof of ownership handy.
- You will also need a “Correct fee.”
You must be 18 years of age or older to apply. After the application submission, the title will be mailed to you in 6 to 8 weeks.
How to Register and Transfer Car Title in Texas?
To register and transfer title ownership in Texas, submit the following documents to complete the transfer.
- Complete and sign the application form for a vehicle title.
- Present the certificate of title from the previous owner.
- The bill of sale may also be needed.
- Receipt of payment for all vehicle registration fees
- Previous owner’s sales exemption form
License Plate Lookup By States
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Simply enter the Kansas plate number into our lookup tool to access the vehicle history report and information. When buying a used car in Kansas and you don’t have the vehicle VIN, easily lookup the license plate number to make an informed decision.
Yes. Our Texas license plate search tool provides instant results, saving you the need to visit the DMV office. Enter the license plate number to access records such as ownership history, recalls, theft records, title status, and more.
If you provide tenable reasons to the Texas DMV, you may be granted legal access to find a Texas license plate lookup owner. This ensures compliance with the DPPA and the state’s non-disclosure policies.
Since the VIN of a car doesn’t change like the license plate, conducting a Texas VIN check has proven to be the most efficient method of uncovering a vehicle history report. Alternatively, you can run a Texas license plate lookup to get a similar report. The VIN, unlike, the license
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.