Free Virginia License Plate Lookup – Instant Vehicle History

Buying a used car in Virginia? Run a 100% FREE Virginia License Plate Lookup and uncover the vehicle’s full history in seconds. Just enter the license plate number to access a comprehensive report — including ownership records, title status, open recalls, odometer readings, liens, accident damage, and more.

Why Use VinCheck.info for Virginia Plate Checks?

✅ 100% Free – no hidden costs, no subscriptions
✅ Verified data from government and trusted industry sources
✅ Mobile-friendly and desktop-ready – no app required
✅ No login or personal details needed

Why Run a Virginia License Plate Lookup?

Virginia’s used car market is thriving — especially in areas like Fairfax County, Virginia Beach, and Richmond. With over 93% of households owning a vehicle, demand is high and options are plentiful. But between private listings and dealership deals, not every car is what it seems.

Running a VA license plate lookup helps you:

• Check prior ownership and mileage
• Spot red flags like salvage, liens, or title brands
• Uncover hidden issues from accidents or flood damage
• Confirm the license plate matches the correct VIN
• Prepare for Virginia’s strict emissions and safety inspections

Every vehicle in Virginia must be registered with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). That license plate isn’t just for show — it’s your key to unlocking critical details that can help you avoid scams and costly mistakes.

Don’t buy blind. Use VinCheck.info’s Virginia license plate search tool to investigate any used car before you sign the paperwork.

Virginia License Plate Serial Format:
ABC-1234

What Can You Find with a Virginia License Plate Lookup?

VinCheck.info’s Virginia License Plate Number Lookup reveals key facts about a vehicle’s history, helping you make smarter decisions:

• Vehicle Details: Check the make, model, year, engine specs, and trim level.
• Title Status: Identify title brands like salvage, rebuilt, flood, or junk.
• Accident History: Access records of crashes, damage, and airbag deployments.
• Mileage Verification: Detect odometer rollbacks or mileage discrepancies.
• Theft Check: See if the vehicle has ever been reported stolen.
• Recall Alerts: Look up open recalls and known safety issues.
• Vehicle Value: Estimate market value based on age, condition, and mileage.
• Timeline: Find out how many owners it’s had and where it’s been registered.
• Sales & Auction Data: View previous sales, pricing trends, and auction results.
• Crash Test Ratings: Review safety ratings from IIHS-HLDI and NHTSA to understand how the vehicle performs in crash tests.

Sample Vehicle History Report

Virginia Vehicle License Plates

If you own a vehicle or are planning to buy one in Virginia, it’s essential to understand the state’s license plate rules. Before finalizing a purchase, consider running a license plate lookup Virginia tool to uncover the vehicle’s title status, accident history, outstanding liens, and more.

Virginia License Plate Format

Virginia standard license plates typically use an alphanumeric format such as ABC-1234 or 1234-ABC, depending on the type and year of issue. Personalized and specialty plates follow custom formats and often include unique graphics related to organizations, interests, or causes. All valid formats can be checked using a license plate lookup Virginia service.

How Many Plates Per Vehicle in Virginia?

Virginia requires two license plates for most passenger vehicles—one mounted on the front and one on the rear. Exceptions include:

• Motorcycles: Rear plate only
• Trailers and semitrailers: Rear plate only
• Certain commercial or antique vehicles may qualify for single-plate display under specific conditions

Grace Period for Getting Plates in Virginia

After purchasing a vehicle in Virginia, you must register it within 30 days and obtain official license plates from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). During this time, you may use a 30-day temporary tag issued by a dealer or the DMV. Failing to register on time can result in fines or enforcement actions.

Make sure to use a free Virginia plate lookup if you’re buying a used vehicle to confirm status and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Types of Virginia License Plates

Virginia offers a wide range of license plate designs and types to accommodate various interests, vehicle uses, and affiliations. You can verify any of these using a Virginia Tag Lookup:

• Standard Passenger Plates
• Military and Veteran Plates
• College and University Plates
• Special Interest and Charity Plates
• Environmental and Wildlife Plates
• Antique and Vintage Vehicle Plates
• Personalized Vanity Plates
• Motorcycle and Trailer Plates

Replacement of Lost or Damaged Virginia License Plates

If your Virginia license plate, decal, or registration card has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It’s also wise to run a Virginia license plate lookup to check for any suspicious activity involving your vehicle.

Step 1: Report Theft or Loss

If your license plate or decal was stolen, report it to local law enforcement. While a police report is not always required by the Virginia DMV, it may help protect against fraud or misuse of your plate.

Tip: If only one plate is stolen or damaged (for two-plate vehicles), you may still need to replace both to ensure a matched set.

Step 2: Where to Request a Replacement

You can apply for a replacement:

• Online through your Virginia DMV account
• In person at any Virginia DMV customer service center
• By mail, using Form VSA-14 (Vehicle Registration Application)

Step 3: What You’ll Need

To complete your replacement request, prepare the following:

• Valid Virginia driver’s license or ID
• Vehicle information (VIN, plate number, etc.)
• Form VSA-14 (if applying in person or by mail)
• Police report number, if available (for stolen plates)
• Payment for replacement fees

Step 4: Virginia Replacement Fees

• Standard license plate replacement: $10
• Replacement decal: $1
• Replacement registration card: $2
• Specialty or personalized plate: Additional fees may apply

Pro Tip:

You can check your registration status and start the replacement process instantly via the Virginia DMV’s online portal. It’s quick, secure, and may help you avoid an unnecessary in-person visit.

How to Transfer a License Plate in Virginia

When you’re registering a newly purchased vehicle in Virginia, you may have the option to transfer your existing license plates from another vehicle you own. This can save time and fees, especially if the plates are still valid.

You can transfer plates under the following conditions:

• The plate is currently registered in your name.
• The vehicle you’re transferring from is no longer in use (sold, totaled, or traded in).
• The new vehicle is titled and registered in the same name.

Virginia allows the transfer of standard and special license plates between vehicles of the same type (e.g., car to car, truck to truck).

Eligible Plate Types for Transfer:

• Passenger vehicle plates
• Light truck plates
• Motorcycle plates
• Personalized and special interest plates

To transfer your license plates, complete a License Plate Application (VSA 10) and visit a Virginia DMV customer service center to complete the transaction.

How to Register a Vehicle in Virginia

If you live in Virginia and purchase or lease a vehicle, you must register it with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before driving it on public roads. This applies to new residents, in-state purchases, and vehicles bought from private sellers or dealerships.

Registration Deadlines

• New Virginia residents: Register your vehicle within 30 days of moving to the state.
• Purchased from a Virginia dealership: Most dealers handle registration for you, but confirm before leaving the lot.
• Purchased from a private seller: Register immediately after purchase; you may drive with temporary tags if applicable.

⚠️ Failing to register on time may result in penalties and late fees.

What You’ll Need

The Virginia DMV requires the following items to register your vehicle:

• A valid Virginia driver’s license or DMV-issued customer number
• Proof of ownership (e.g., signed title or Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin)
• Completed Application for Title and Registration (Form VSA 17A )
• Proof of insurance meeting Virginia’s minimum liability coverage:
  • $30,000 for injury/death of one person
  • $60,000 for injury/death of two or more people
  • $20,000 for property damage
• Virginia Safety Inspection Certificate
• Emissions inspection (required in certain localities like Northern Virginia)
• Payment for taxes and fees

Taxes and Fees to Expect

• Sales and Use Tax (SUT): 4.15% of the vehicle’s sale price (or $75 minimum)
• Title fee: $15
• Registration fee: Typically ranges from $30 to $40, depending on vehicle weight
• Emissions fee (if required): Varies by testing station

Ways to Register

Option 1: Register Online

• Available for renewals and some new registrations
• Visit: www.dmv.virginia.gov
• Requires access to DMV customer account and eligible documents

Option 2: Register In Person

• Visit a Virginia DMV customer service center or select DMV Select locations
• Recommended for new residents or private sales
• Find locations: DMV office locator

Option 3: Register by Mail

• Available for certain renewals and title transfers
• Mail documents and payment to:
  Virginia DMV
  P.O. Box 27412
  Richmond, VA 23269

After You Register

• You’ll receive your license plates and registration card via mail or in person
• Renewals must be completed annually or biennially, depending on your selected term
• Keep your vehicle inspection and insurance current to avoid registration issues

Helpful Tip

If you’re transferring a vehicle from out-of-state, make sure to complete a VIN inspection and check if an emissions test is required in your locality.

Virginia Vehicle Registration Renewal

In Virginia, all vehicles must be renewed annually or biennially based on the registration period you selected. Your vehicle’s registration expiration date is typically listed on your registration card and renewal notice.

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) sends a renewal notice before your registration expires. However, it’s still your responsibility to renew on time, even if you do not receive a notice.

Check your renewal status or expiration date at www.dmv.virginia.gov

What You’ll Need

Before renewing your vehicle registration, prepare the following:

• Your vehicle’s license plate number or VIN
• Your Virginia DMV customer number (on your driver’s license)
• Proof of auto insurance meeting Virginia’s minimum coverage requirements
• Payment for renewal fees (varies by vehicle type and weight)
• Emissions test compliance, if you live in a designated emissions area (e.g., Northern Virginia)

Use the DMV’s Estimate Registration Fees tool on their website to calculate your total cost.

Ways to Renew Your Registration

You have several convenient renewal options:

1. Online

• Go to www.dmv.virginia.gov/vehicles/#renew.asp
• Log in with your DMV customer number or vehicle details
• Pay using a credit/debit card or bank account
• Receive your new registration and sticker by mail in 5–10 business days

2. DMV Select or Customer Service Center

• Bring your renewal notice or vehicle details
• Present required identification and proof of insurance
• Pay by cash, check, or card
• Walk out with your new registration and decals

3. By Mail

• Mail your completed renewal notice and payment to the address listed on the form
• Allow up to 15 business days for processing and delivery

4. DMV 2 Go / DMV Connect Mobile Services

• Check for upcoming mobile unit visits in your area on the DMV website
• Bring required documents and renew in person

After You Renew

• In-person or mobile service: Receive your registration and decal immediately.
• Online or by mail: Allow 5–15 business days for delivery.
  If you don’t receive it within 30 days, contact the DMV at (804) 497-7100.

Late Renewal Fees

If you renew after your registration expires, a late fee of $10 may apply. Driving with an expired registration could also result in fines or penalties.

Pro Tip: You can choose to register your vehicle for one or two years. Renewing for two years can save time and avoid yearly reminders.

How to Title a Vehicle Purchased in a Private Sale in Virginia

If you bought a vehicle from a private seller (not a dealer) in Virginia, you must apply for a title and register the vehicle with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 30 days of the purchase date. Failing to do so may result in late fees or penalties.

What You’ll Need

Be prepared to submit the following items when titling your vehicle in Virginia:

✅ Personal Identification

• A valid Virginia driver’s license or ID card.
• If you’re a new resident, you’ll need to obtain a Virginia credential before titling and registering the vehicle.

✅ Proof of Ownership

• The original vehicle title, signed over to you by the seller.
• Both the seller(s) and buyer(s) must sign the title in the appropriate sections.
• If the vehicle has a lien, it must be released by the lender before transfer.

✅ Odometer Disclosure Statement

• Required for vehicles model year 2011 or newer and weighing under 16,000 lbs.
• Must be completed on the title or on Form VSA 5 (Odometer Disclosure Statement).

✅ Application for Title and Registration

• Complete Form VSA 17A – Application for Certificate of Title and Registration.
• If there is a lien, include the lienholder’s information.

✅ Proof of Address

• Two proofs of Virginia residency may be required if you are a new resident.

✅ Proof of Insurance

• You must certify that the vehicle is covered by the minimum required liability insurance in Virginia.
• If not insured, you must pay the $600 statutory fee (not insurance).

✅ Safety Inspection

• Before registering your vehicle, it must pass a Virginia Safety Inspection and display a valid inspection sticker.
• Temporary registration may be available while you get the vehicle inspected.

✅ Emissions Inspection (If Applicable)

• Required for vehicles registered in Northern Virginia (e.g., Fairfax, Arlington, Prince William, Loudoun, etc.).
• Check www.deq.virginia.gov to see if your location requires it.

✅ Fees and Taxes

• Title Fee: $15
• Sales and Use Tax: 4.15% of the vehicle’s sale price or $75 minimum (whichever is greater)
• Registration Fees: Varies by weight and vehicle type (typically $30.75–$51.75 annually)
• Late Fee: May apply if not titled within 30 days of purchase

Where to Go

You can title and register your vehicle in person at any Virginia DMV customer service center.
Some transactions may also be started online at: www.dmv.virginia.gov

Quick Tips

• Double-check the title for any existing liens and ensure all signatures are complete.
• Bring original documents – photocopies are typically not accepted.
• Make an appointment to avoid long wait times at DMV locations.
  

How to Transfer a Vehicle Titled in Virginia

If you’re buying or selling a vehicle privately in Virginia (not through a dealership), you’ll need to properly transfer the title to ensure legal ownership. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) outlines specific steps that both the buyer and seller must follow to avoid fines, delays, or legal issues.

General Guidelines

• Use blue or black ink when filling out the title and forms.
• Do not cross out or erase any information—this may void the title.
• The seller must have a valid Virginia title in their name before transferring.
• Title transfers must be completed within 30 days of the sale to avoid penalties.
• Odometer disclosure is required for vehicles less than 20 model years old.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Buyer Information

• Full legal name
• Virginia residential address (must match your VA driver’s license or state-issued ID)

2. Sale Details

• Date of sale (MM/DD/YYYY)
• Purchase price
• Odometer reading (whole miles only; no tenths)

3. Odometer Disclosure (If Required)

Required for vehicles under 20 years old. Check applicable boxes if:
1. Odometer exceeds mechanical limits
▸ e.g., 99,999 (5-digit) or 999,999 (6-digit)
2. Odometer reading is not accurate due to:
▸ Repair, replacement, malfunction, or tampering

Use Form VSA 5 (Odometer Disclosure Statement) if the title doesn’t already include an odometer section. 

4. Signatures

Seller:
1. Print and sign your full legal name
2. If co-owned, all owners must sign
3. If the vehicle is titled to a business:
– Print the business name
– Include the representative’s name, title, and signature

Buyer:
1. Print and sign your full legal name
2. All co-buyers must sign if applying for joint ownership

What Happens Next?

To complete the transfer and register the vehicle in your name:
– Submit the signed title and required documents at any Virginia DMV customer service center
– Or mail your documents to:
Virginia DMV, P.O. Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269