Ohio License Plate Lookup

Free Ohio License Plate Lookup

Search your Ohio license plate and get a free complete vehicle history report including: salvage status, theft or accident records, recalls and more!

In Ohio, purchasing a used car can be a daunting task due to various factors such as potential fraud, undisclosed issues, and the absence of comprehensive regulations. Common risks include title washing, odometer rollback, unlicensed dealers, salvage vehicles, and online scams. To mitigate these risks and ensure a smooth buying process, buyers must conduct thorough research and due diligence.

One essential step is running a license plate lookup and obtaining a vehicle history report. These reports provide valuable insights into the vehicle’s history, ownership, potential issues, and any red flags. By running a license plate lookup and obtaining a vehicle history report, buyers can verify the authenticity of the vehicle, identify any hidden problems, and make informed decisions before making a purchase.

VinCheck.info offers a free Ohio license plate lookup tool that allows you to obtain a free vehicle history using any OH license plate number. Simply enter the license plate number in the search box above to start your vehicle information search.

You may also send a record request form to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, the state’s official license plate provider, to get the car details you need. For inquiries, contact the agency at (844) 644-6268 or through any of the following means: chat, email, other numbers, or mail.

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)

1970 West Broad Street,
Columbus, Ohio 43223
(844) 644-6268

https://www.bmv.ohio.gov/

What Information Can You Uncover With an Ohio License Plate Lookup?

An Ohio license plate lookup involves accessing a database to gather information about a vehicle using its license plate number. This process provides valuable insights into the vehicle’s history, ownership, and potential issues. Here is the information you will get from a VinCheck.info Ohio license plate lookup.:

  1. Vehicle Specifications: This includes details such as the make, model, year, engine type, dimensions, weight, and other specific features of the vehicle. Understanding these specifications helps buyers determine if the vehicle meets their needs and preferences.
  2. Title History Report: A title history report provides information about past ownership records, title transfers, and any branding events such as salvage or rebuilt titles. This report helps verify the vehicle’s authenticity, legal status, and any potential ownership disputes.
  3. Equipment Details: This section lists the specific features and equipment installed in the vehicle, such as navigation systems, audio systems, safety features, and other optional extras. Knowing the equipment details helps buyers assess the functionality and convenience of the vehicle.
  4. Fuel Efficiency: Information about the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, typically expressed in miles per gallon (MPG) for city and highway driving. Understanding fuel efficiency helps buyers estimate ongoing fuel expenses and assess the vehicle’s environmental impact.
  5. Safety Rating: This provides insights into the vehicle’s safety ratings and performance in crash tests conducted by reputable agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Knowing the safety rating helps buyers prioritize safety when choosing a vehicle.
  6. Recalls & Defects: This section alerts buyers to any open recalls or known defects associated with the vehicle. It helps buyers identify potential safety issues and necessary repairs, ensuring they make a safe and informed purchase.
  7. Current Warranty: Information about any remaining warranties or service contracts applicable to the vehicle. This provides buyers with peace of mind and may influence their decision-making process, knowing what coverage, if any, is included with the vehicle.
  8. Theft Records: This section indicates if the vehicle has been reported as stolen. Knowing theft records helps buyers verify the vehicle’s legitimacy and avoid purchasing a stolen car, which can lead to legal repercussions and financial losses.
  9. Salvage Auction Records: This provides information about any history of significant damage or repairs, typically from salvage auctions. It helps buyers assess the vehicle’s condition and potential risks associated with previous damage.
  10. Sales Records: This section includes details about the vehicle’s transaction history, such as previous sales prices, ownership transfers, and any relevant sales documentation. Understanding sales records provides insights into the vehicle’s past and helps buyers make informed decisions.
  11. Accident Records: Information about the vehicle’s accident history, including past collisions, damages, repairs, and insurance claims. Knowing the accident records helps buyers assess the vehicle’s condition and potential mechanical issues.
  12. Flood Check Records: This section alerts buyers to any history of water damage, typically from floods or other natural disasters. It helps buyers avoid purchasing a vehicle with hidden water damage that could compromise its safety and performance.
  13. Market Value: This provides an estimate of the vehicle’s market value based on factors such as its condition, mileage, and geographic location. Understanding market value helps buyers negotiate a fair price and ensures they’re getting the best value for their money.
  14. Ownership Cost: Information about the estimated ownership costs of the vehicle, including maintenance, insurance, depreciation, and other ongoing expenses. Knowing ownership costs helps buyers budget effectively and plan for the financial responsibilities of owning the vehicle.
  15. Inspection Checklist: A comprehensive checklist covering essential components and systems of the vehicle, typically used during pre-purchase inspections. It helps buyers assess the vehicle’s condition and identify any potential issues before finalizing the purchase.

Ohio License Plates & Placards

Ohio License PlateRequirements for vehicle registration may vary by type. Please check which vehicle type applies to you. New residents and owners may register their vehicles at a BMV registration office near their residence. In addition, a state-approved car insurance is required to drive a vehicle in Ohio. If you owned a car under age 26 and you are a resident of any of the following counties: Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, and Summit, your car needs to undergo vehicle testing every two years. In general, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles offers license plates with three letters and four numbers for passenger cars. Each car is given two plates intended for display on its front and rear.

Request a replacement/duplicate for your lost or mutilated plate by filling out the application form. It may take four weeks to process your request.

Ohio Specialized Interest Plates

There are seven (7) specialized plate types available for you to choose:

  1. Company Logo
  2. Collegiate
  3. Organizational
  4. Military
  5. Professional Sports
  6. Disability Plate/Placard
  7. Gratis/Public Owned

See the General Information page for more information about personalized/specialized license plates.

Transferring of License Plates in Ohio

A request to transfer a plate can be done by filling out the request form. Follow the instructions correctly to process your request. Each plate transfer between cars costs $4.50.

Titling Requirements and Procedure in Ohio

For title applicants, they must complete the application form and follow the instructions written on it. They must also comply with the requirements and process their request at an Ohio title office. Be aware that new cars have slightly different requirements from used ones. During the process, applicants must prepare their payment for the fees and taxes.

Submission of late application is chargeable by late fees. If a vehicle is owned by more than two persons, an authorized Power of Attorney should be presented if the other owner(s) is absent during the titling process. In addition, the Social Security Numbers of owners should be presented at the office where the title application is being held. If a car has an active lien, it should also be indicated on the title.

For newly purchased used vehicles, the seller must declare his or her intent of selling the vehicle on the title’s back. The seller must also disclose the important details of the agreement, such as the latest odometer reading and the date of sale. The applicant should notarize the document before submitting it. Make sure that the details in the title are correct. Removing or changing parts of the title may render the request invalid.

Visit the Ohio vehicle titles page to know more about the title processes in the state.

More Resources for Ohio Drivers:

Buying a used car in Ohio?  Don’t make a costly mistake. Run a free license plate lookup for your Ohio-registered vehicle!

  1. Check for accidents. Every year, approximately 6.0 million automobile accidents are reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
  2. Check for title brands. Flood, hail-damage, and salvage titles are examples of critical title brands.
  3. Check for special purpose designations, including taxi-use, rental-use, or police-use.
  4. Check for thefts. Lookup a VIN to check for an active theft or previously recovered theft record.

Run a Free Ohio License Plate Lookup to uncover the full-story of your Ohio-registered vehicle.

Enter an Ohio License Plate: