Indiana boasts a vibrant market for used vehicles, with major cities like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne serving as key hubs for car sales. With a wide array of dealerships and private sellers offering diverse vehicle options, Indiana attracts many buyers due to its reputation as one of the least expensive states for car ownership. However, ensuring the reliability and safety of a used vehicle before purchase is essential.

Every vehicle in Indiana must be registered with the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, and its license plate serves as a critical identifier for accessing detailed records. By performing an Indiana License Plate Lookup, you can uncover vital information about a vehicle’s history, including past ownership, title details, liens, odometer readings, and salvage records. This process also helps connect a license plate to VIN, providing an in-depth view of the vehicle’s specifications and history.

Taking a few minutes to run an Indiana License Plate Lookup can protect your investment and provide peace of mind, ensuring your chosen vehicle is both safe and reliable in the Hoosier State.

VinCheck.info offers a free Indiana license plate lookup tool. Simply enter an Indiana license plate number to access a comprehensive vehicle report. This quick and easy step empowers you to make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes when purchasing a used vehicle.

FAQ on Indiana License Plates

What information can I obtain from an Indiana license plate lookup?

An Indiana license plate lookup can provide a variety of information, including the vehicle’s registration details, previous owners, accident history, title status, and any existing liens or recalls.

How do I register my vehicle and apply for a vehicle title in Indiana?

To register your vehicle in Indiana, you need to visit a local BMV branch with the necessary documentation, including proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and a completed application form. For more information, visit the BMV Vehicle Registration page.

Online registration can be done provided that: (1) the vehicle was bought within the last two months or 60 days, (2) and the title application form was submitted. Otherwise, you may register any car with older than 60 days purchase date at any BMV office. In the Lake and Porter counties, certain cars must be inspected for tampering and their emissions must be tested every two years.

To get a vehicle title, Indiana vehicle owners must get a copy of the state’s certificate of title and complete it to begin the titling process. You may need to sort out the paperwork of your newly acquired car with your seller. Upon acquiring the car, you’ll have a grace period of about a month and a half (45 days) to begin the title application, before the BMV start imposing penalties.  The Indiana BMV may ask you to present some documents from the requirements list. Owners may receive tax credits if their vehicles have been purchased outside the state. Moreover, Indiana does not impose a sales tax on transfers of out-of-state titles.

Can I buy a vehicle with an existing lien in Indiana?

Any existing liens attached to a car must be cleared before being sold. If a car’s title is under the possession of a lienholder, you may fill out and submit the request form. Once this is done, the Indiana license office will notify you about its completion and provide the title certificate. You may request for a duplicate title online, by mail or over the counter, if the current title is lost or damaged. Visit the Titles page for more information about vehicle titles in the state.

What are the different types of license plates available in Indiana?

Indiana offers several types of license plates: standard, college & university, military, organization, personalized, and other types. Check the requirements for each plate selection and see if your vehicle qualifies for any of them on the BMV License Plates page.

Can I transfer my license plates to another vehicle?

Yes, you can transfer your license plates to another vehicle that you own or to a vehicle owned by a family member. The process requires submitting the necessary paperwork and fees. Details can be found on the BMV Plate Transfers page.

What do I do if my license plates are lost or stolen?

If your license plates are lost or stolen, you must report the incident to the police and then apply for replacement plates through the BMV. The procedure and requirements are outlined on the BMV Lost or Stolen Plates page.

How do I renew my vehicle registration in Indiana?

Vehicle registration in Indiana can be renewed online, by mail, or in person at a BMV branch. You will need your renewal notice and proof of insurance. For step-by-step instructions, visit the BMV Renewal page.

Indiana License Plate Serial Formats:
123A, 123AB, 123ABC

To contact the Indiana BMV:

Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles

Indiana Government Center North
Room 402
100 North Senate Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Customer Service: 888-692-6841
Mon. through Fri., 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.(EDT)

Contact Indiana BMV

More Resources for Indiana Drivers:

• Indiana Learner’s Permits & Driver’s Licenses Overview
• Indiana Renewing a Driver’s License or Identification Card
• Indiana Registration & Plates
• Indiana Titles
• Indiana Plate Cost Estimator
• Indiana Driver Manual

Buying a used car in Indiana?  Don’t make a costly mistake. Run a Free License Plate Lookup for your Indiana-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 Indiana License Plate Lookup to uncover the full-story of your Indiana-registered vehicle.