Free Minnesota License Plate Lookup

Check Any MN License Plate Number and Get a Free Vehicle History

Considering buying a used car in Minnesota? It’s wise to approach the process cautiously, especially given the unique considerations of the local market. Potential challenges include issues such as discrepancies in mileage readings, undisclosed damages, and uncertainties surrounding the vehicle’s title history.

Gathering accurate information about a vehicle can be quite tricky. It involves extensive searches across various platforms and databases to uncover crucial details about the car’s background, which can be time-consuming and frustrating. Without access to a comprehensive vehicle history upfront, there’s a risk of ending up with a car that has hidden issues or an unclear past.

Our Minnesota license plate lookup service offers a solution by providing free and immediate access to a vehicle’s detailed history with just a few clicks. You’ll receive comprehensive information, including registration records, ownership history, accident reports, open recalls, and more. This empowers you to make informed decisions, avoid unexpected surprises, and save both time and money. Give our free Minnesota License Plate Search a try today to gather essential information before making your purchase decision.

Below is the list of critical information you’ll receive from a VinCheck.info free MN license plate lookup:

• Vehicle specification: This includes details such as the make, model, year, and body style of the vehicle.
• Title information: Information about the vehicle’s title, including whether it’s a clean title or if it has been branded as salvaged, rebuilt, or has a salvage title.
• Accident history: Reports may include information about any accidents the vehicle has been involved in. This could include the severity of the accidents and whether there was any structural damage.
• Odometer readings: Reports typically show the history of recorded odometer readings. This can help identify potential odometer rollback fraud.
• Vehicle market value: This is the estimated current monetary value of a vehicle in the open market. It represents the price at which a vehicle is likely to be bought or sold based on various factors and conditions at a specific point in time.
• Lien and repossession records: Information on whether there are any outstanding liens on the vehicle or if it has been repossessed.
• Vehicle use: Data on whether the vehicle has been used for personal, commercial, or rental purposes.
• Recalls and defects: Reports may include information about any manufacturer recalls or known defects related to the vehicle.
• Theft records: Information about whether the vehicle has been reported as stolen.
• Title and registration history: Details about changes in ownership, title transfers, and the state where the vehicle was previously registered.

Minnesota Plate Serial Format:
ABC 123

Want to contact the Minnesota DVS?

Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services
445 Minnesota Street, Suite 190 Town Square Building
Saint Paul, MN 55101-5190

Driver Services: (651) 297-3298
Vehicle Services: (651) 297-2126
TTYL: (651) 282-6555

Minnesota DMV Vehicle Lookup and License Plate Search Services

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division provides various online services related to vehicle information, although they do not offer a free license plate or VIN search service directly to the public. Some of the online services available through the DVS include:

1. Renewing vehicle registration
2. Renewing driver’s licenses and ID cards
3. Applying for a driver’s license or learner’s permit
4. Ordering specialty license plates
5. Updating address on driver’s licenses, ID cards, and vehicle registrations
6. Checking driver’s license status and driving record
7. Paying driver’s license and vehicle registration fees
8. Requesting a duplicate driver’s license or ID card
9. Reporting vehicle sales or transfers
10. Accessing vehicle title information and status
11. Scheduling appointments for DVS services

These services represent a selection of what the Minnesota DMV offers online. For a comprehensive list of services and more detailed vehicle information, individuals can visit the official website of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Driver and Vehicle Services division.

Minnesota License Plates, Decals, and Placards FAQs

What is a Minnesota License Plate?

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) oversees the issuance of vehicle license plates in the state. Minnesota offers various plate options, including standard plates, specialty plates, and personalized plates.

Minnesota’s standard license plates typically feature the state’s name and may include unique designs or symbols representing Minnesota’s culture, history, or natural landscapes. These plates are linked to the vehicle’s registered owner and require annual renewal with updated registration decals.

License Plate Sizes

Standard automobile, commercial, and trailer license plates: 12″ x 6″ 

Motorcycle license plates: 7″ x 4″ 

Specialty or personalized plates may have slightly different dimensions.

License Plate Validity

Minnesota license plates are validated with registration decals that indicate the expiration date of the vehicle’s registration. Generally, plates remain with the vehicle they are assigned to, but specialty or personalized plates can be transferred to another vehicle upon request and payment of applicable fees.

Minnesota Laws on License Plates

Minnesota has mandated license plates on vehicles since a specific year (if known). Most vehicles in Minnesota, including passenger cars, are required to have both front and rear plates. Exceptions may apply for certain vehicle types such as motorcycles or trailers, which might only require a rear plate. License plates play a crucial role in identifying vehicles, aiding law enforcement in accessing DMV records to trace vehicle ownership. 

In case of theft, damage, or loss of license plates, you must obtain a replacement. This can be done by submitting an Application for Duplicate Plates/Validation Stickers (Form PS2010) at a Minnesota DPS office.

Transferring a Minnesota License Plate

To transfer a Minnesota license plate from one vehicle to another, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Ensure that both vehicles involved in the transfer are registered in Minnesota and that the license plate is in good standing. Make sure the registration is current or renew it before initiating the transfer process.
2. Remove the license plate from the original vehicle: Take off the license plate from the original vehicle and store it securely.
3. Complete the transfer application: Obtain the appropriate transfer application form from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) or your local Deputy Registrar’s Office. Fill out the form with all required information, including the license plate number and details of both the original and new vehicles.
4. Pay the transfer fee: Pay the transfer fee, which varies depending on the type of vehicle and license plate being transferred.
5. Submit the transfer application: Submit the completed transfer application along with the required fee to the Minnesota DPS or your local Deputy Registrar’s Office. You can do this in person or by mail, depending on the office’s procedures.
6. Receive the new registration: Once the DPS or Deputy Registrar’s Office processes your transfer application, you will receive a new registration for the vehicle with the transferred license plate.

Remember that the transfer must be completed promptly, usually within a specified timeframe after selling or transferring ownership of the original vehicle. Additionally, certain specialized license plates may have additional requirements or fees associated with their transfer.

License Plate Renewal

To renew your license plate registration in Minnesota, follow these steps:

1. Find your renewal date: Check your current registration card or visit the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) website to determine the expiration date of your license plate registration.
2. Check for emissions testing: Minnesota does not require emissions testing statewide, but verify if any specific regulations apply to your vehicle in your area.
3. Update your address: Ensure your address is current with the Minnesota DPS so that your renewal notice is sent to the correct location.
4. Renew your registration: You have several options for renewing your license plate registration in Minnesota. You can renew online through the Minnesota DPS website, by mail, or in person at a local deputy registrar office. For online renewal, visit the Minnesota DPS website and follow the instructions provided. You will need your vehicle information and payment for registration fees.
5. Receive your new registration: After submitting your renewal and payment, you will receive a new registration card and sticker by mail. You can also print a temporary registration from the Minnesota DPS website while waiting for your new documents to arrive.

Remember to renew your license plate registration before it expires to avoid late fees and penalties. Note that the renewal fees may vary based on the type of vehicle, its weight, and other factors.

How Can I Find the Owner of a License Plate in Minnesota?