Free Minnesota License Plate Lookup – Get a Free Vehicle History
Thinking about purchasing a used car in Minnesota? Get a completely FREE Minnesota License Plate Lookup to instantly access the full history of the vehicle. Simply enter the license plate number and receive an in-depth report — including title details, accident records, mileage inconsistencies, open recalls, liens, theft incidents, and much more.
Why Use VinCheck.info for Minnesota Plate Checks?
✅ Completely Free – no hidden charges, subscriptions, or credit card details needed
✅ Reliable Information – backed by NMVTIS and trusted industry partners
✅ Instant Results – mobile-friendly, no apps or downloads required
✅ Private & Secure – search anonymously without any need for registration
The Importance of a Minnesota Tag Lookup
Minnesota, with its mix of bustling cities like Minneapolis and Saint Paul, along with its vast rural landscapes and iconic winter roads, is home to millions of vehicles. The used car market here is active, but not every car is as perfect as it seems.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) handles vehicle registrations and titles, which are all connected to license plates. Running a free plate lookup allows you to access crucial details about the vehicle’s history — including any prior accidents, flood damage, existing liens, or stolen vehicle reports.
Don’t risk buying a car with unknown issues. Perform a free Minnesota plate check today to make sure your next ride is safe, reliable, and free from any unpleasant surprises.
Why Use a Free Minnesota License Plate Lookup?
Thinking about buying or selling a used car in Minnesota? An MN license plate lookup from VinCheck.info gives you instant access to essential vehicle details, helping you make safer, smarter decisions. Simply enter a Minnesota plate number to reveal:
- Vehicle Details – Year, make, model, trim, and body style.
- Title Status – Check for branded titles like salvage, flood, rebuilt, or junk—whether issued in Minnesota or another state.
- Accident Records – Reported crashes, airbag deployments, and structural damage.
- Mileage History – Spot odometer rollbacks or unusual mileage gaps.
- Market Valuation – Get an estimate of the car’s fair market price based on its history and condition.
- Liens & Loans – Verify outstanding liens or past repossessions.
- Usage – See if the vehicle was privately owned, leased, used as a fleet car, or rented.
- Open Recalls – Find manufacturer recalls that still need repair.
- Theft Records – Check if the car was ever reported stolen or recovered.
- Sales & Title Transfers – Track past transactions and interstate ownership history.
Whether you’re shopping for used cars in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, or Bloomington, a free Minnesota plate lookup offers peace of mind—no fees, no subscriptions, and no sign-ups required.
Sample Vehicle History Report
Minnesota License Plates
Standard License Plate
In Minnesota, the standard license plate is issued to most registered vehicles. The current design features a blue-and-white background with a lake scene, evergreen trees, and the slogan “10,000 Lakes.” This plate highlights Minnesota’s identity as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” Vehicle owners also have the option to personalize their plates for an additional fee.
How Many Plates Per Car?
Most vehicles in Minnesota are issued two license plates—one for the front and one for the rear. However, motorcycles, trailers, and some special vehicle types are only issued a single rear plate.
Minnesota Plate Serial Format:
ABC 123
The Plate Format
The standard Minnesota license plate format generally includes a combination of three letters and three numbers (e.g., ABC 123). Personalized plates may contain up to 7 characters (letters, numbers, or spaces), subject to approval by the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS).
License Plate Types
Minnesota offers a wide variety of plates in addition to the standard issue, including:
- Personalized Plates – Custom letter/number combinations.
- Military Plates – For veterans, active-duty members, and their families.
- Special Organization Plates – Supporting Minnesota universities, nonprofits, and community organizations.
- Specialty Plates – Featuring designs that honor Minnesota’s heritage, environment, wildlife, and causes.
- Disability Plates & Placards – For individuals with qualifying disabilities.
Getting New Plates
To obtain new Minnesota plates, you must visit a DVS office with:
- Completed vehicle registration/title application.
- Proof of ownership (title or bill of sale).
- Proof of insurance.
- Payment for registration and plate fees.
The cost of standard plates is typically included in the vehicle registration fee. Personalized or specialty plates have additional fees.
License Plate Renewal
Minnesota license plates must be renewed annually, based on the vehicle owner’s registration month. Renewal notices are mailed, and registration can be renewed online, by mail, or in person at a DVS office. Fees vary depending on the vehicle type and plate design.
License Plate Transfer
Minnesota license plates can be transferred to another vehicle owned by the same person. To transfer plates, the owner must:
- Provide the current plate number and registration.
- Show proof of insurance for the new vehicle.
- Present the title or proof of ownership for the new vehicle.
- Pay applicable transfer and registration fees.
If the plate will not be transferred, it must be surrendered to the DVS.
Replacing Damaged or Lost License Plates
If a Minnesota plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, the owner must request a replacement at a DVS office. Proof of vehicle registration is required, and replacement fees apply.
Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed Plates
If your Minnesota plates are stolen, it is recommended that you file a police report before requesting replacements. In some cases, a police report may be required before new plates can be issued.
Minnesota Vehicle Registration
Owning a vehicle in Minnesota means ensuring it is properly registered with the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division of the Department of Public Safety. The process is fairly simple if you know what to bring and where to go.
What to Bring With You
When you visit a DVS deputy registrar office, be prepared with:
The Vehicle Itself
- In most cases, a physical VIN inspection is not required for standard registration.
- A VIN inspection may be required if the vehicle is from out of state, previously titled as salvage, or has no record in Minnesota.
Current Title and Registration
- Ensure the seller has signed the title correctly.
- Include a bill of sale (recommended, not required).
- If the vehicle has a lien, provide the lienholder’s information.
- If the title is lost, apply for a duplicate title before registering.
Your Identification
- A valid driver’s license, state ID, or other accepted photo ID.
Payment
- Be ready to pay title fees, registration tax (based on vehicle value/age), and other state fees.
- Most offices accept cash, check, and credit/debit cards.
Step-by-Step Process
- Visit a DVS deputy registrar office (locations available statewide).
- Submit your completed title application and registration paperwork.
- Pay the registration tax and fees.
- Receive Minnesota license plates, stickers, and registration card.
Key Deadlines
- New Residents → You must title and register your vehicle in Minnesota within 60 days of moving to the state.
- Vehicle Purchase → You must apply for title and registration within 10 days of the purchase date.
Vehicle Titling in Minnesota
A title is the legal document that proves who owns a vehicle.
When a vehicle is sold in Minnesota, the title must be transferred within 10 business days. All vehicles driven on Minnesota roads must be both titled and registered. Minnesota residents apply for a Certificate of Title and Registration through a Deputy Registrar (DMV office).
Rules for Titles
- Do not use white-out, scratch out, or erase anything on a title.
- If information needs correcting, provide a correction affidavit or supporting documents.
Applying for a Title
In-State Vehicles (purchased in Minnesota)
Bring these to your local Deputy Registrar’s office:
- Proof of identity (driver’s license, state ID, or other acceptable ID)
- Signed-over Minnesota title (seller’s signature must be notarized or witnessed)
- Proof of insurance (company name, policy number, and expiration date)
- Payment for title, transfer, and registration fees
Out-of-State Vehicles (purchased outside Minnesota)
Bring these to your local Deputy Registrar’s office:
- Proof of identity (driver’s license, state ID, or other acceptable ID)
- Signed-over out-of-state title (or registration card if that state doesn’t issue titles)
- Completed Minnesota application for title/registration (provided at the office)
- Odometer disclosure (for vehicles under 10 years old)
- Proof of insurance (company name, policy number, expiration date)
- Payment for title, transfer, and registration fees
Note: If your name differs between your ID and the title, bring proof (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order).
Business-owned vehicles must use a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).
Liens on Titles
- If a loan is taken on the vehicle, the lienholder will usually hold the title until the loan is paid off.
- Once paid, the lien release must be submitted to the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) to clear the title.
Temporary Permits
For buyers who need to drive before receiving permanent plates:
- A 21-day temporary permit can be issued at Deputy Registrar offices.
- Cost: $1.00 plus filing fee.
- Valid until permanent registration is received.
Replacement / Duplicate Titles
To get a duplicate Minnesota title, bring these to a Deputy Registrar’s office:
- Completed Application for Duplicate Title (PS2067)
- Vehicle information (VIN, plate number, or title number)
- Picture ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Fees
In Minnesota, according to Minnesota Statutes §168A.05, when a motor vehicle is sold or transferred, the seller must properly assign the certificate of title to the buyer at the time of sale. This includes providing all necessary information, such as the odometer reading, date of sale, purchase price, and signatures from both parties. In Minnesota, the license plates generally stay with the seller, not the vehicle. The seller may transfer the plates to another vehicle they own or return them to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office.
How do I perform a Minnesota license plate lookup for free?
To run a Minnesota license plate lookup for free, simply enter the plate number into the designated search tool. This will allow you to access detailed vehicle history, including any recorded accidents, title status, and more. Make sure to use reliable platforms that provide no-cost reports without hidden fees.
Can I check if my Minnesota license plate has been involved in any accidents?
Yes, a Minnesota license plate lookup can reveal if the vehicle associated with the plate has been involved in accidents. By using an online lookup tool, you gain access to vital information, including crash history and damage details. It’s crucial to review this report before purchasing a used vehicle.
What other information can I get from a Minnesota plate lookup report?
Along with accident records, a Minnesota license plate lookup will provide you with essential details like mileage history, title changes, and open recalls. It can also help you determine whether there’s a lien on the vehicle or if it has been reported as stolen. This comprehensive data can prevent costly mistakes when buying a used car.
Are there any fees associated with Minnesota license plate lookups?
While many services offer free license plate lookups, some may charge for more detailed reports. It’s important to choose platforms that are transparent about their fees. A legitimate service will offer basic details at no cost, but additional data such as vehicle history reports may require payment.
Can I trace the history of a vehicle from its Minnesota license plate number?
Yes, by using the license plate number, you can trace the vehicle’s history in Minnesota. A lookup can reveal crucial information such as prior owners, title transfers, and accident involvement. This helps ensure that you’re making an informed decision before committing to any vehicle purchase.
How accurate is the information provided by a Minnesota license plate lookup?
The accuracy of a Minnesota license plate lookup depends on the database used by the service. Most reliable platforms gather information directly from official state records and national databases, ensuring up-to-date and accurate results. However, always cross-reference multiple sources to confirm your findings.