What Can You Get From a Texas License Plate Lookup?

A license plate lookup basically works the same way as a VIN check. If the VIN is not available, you can get a car report using the license plate number. VINCheck.info offers both services for free.

Can you look up a Texas license plate owner? Can you find where someone lives from their number plate? If you’re looking for vehicle owner details, you won’t be able to find them using a license plate search tool. Under the federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act of 1993, giving private owner information through third-party or Texas DMV license plate lookup is prohibited. Only the government can determine if the purpose qualifies for any of the few exceptions including law enforcement.

Why Use a Texas License Plate Lookup Service?

You want to run a vehicle history report to protect yourself from unwanted hassles and risks when you buy a used car. Avoid scams and save thousands of dollars on unexpected fixes. Our license plate lookup for any vehicle registered in Texas will not cost you anything. These are the most compelling reasons for getting a vehicle history report. At the VinCheck.info website, all it takes its run our license plate number search for free:

Accidents

Around 63 percent of crash fatalities in 2020 involved passenger vehicles (cars, pickup trucks, and SUVs). This information is based on a report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Some of these vehicles are rebuilt or re-sold and may pose public safety risks. Avoid potential problems from a vehicle with an accident history such as mechanical issues. reduced performance. The vehicle may have a lower resale value compared to a similar car without an accident history.

Theft

Texas had over 84,000 incidents of motor vehicle theft in 2020, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Run a vehicle history via license plate search to check if the car has been reported as stolen.  There are a lot of risks involved if you buy a stolen used car. You can expect to face legal liabilities or problems and financial loss.

Title brands

A Texas license plate check can also point to red flags like title brands. Branding alerts buyers about vehicles that have been damaged in accidents or disasters. Remember, Texas is considered the most disaster-prone state based on disaster declarations from 1953 to 2021. Buying a used car with a salvage title brand, for example, can come with risks, especially for public safety. A salvage title means that the car has been deemed a total loss by an insurance company due to damage from an accident, flood, fire, or other events.

Uncover vehicle details for free with a Texas License Plate Lookup:

FAQ: Vehicle Registration and License Plate in Texas

Just like other states, Texas requires car owners to have a plate on their vehicles for identification and as proof of registration or ownership. Additionally, vehicles registered in Texas are required to pass an annual inspection to ensure compliance with state law. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about TX license plates:

What are the main features of a Texas license plate?

The license plate design features an aluminum plate that bears “Texas Classic” black lettering on a white sheeting design with double security thread in the plate sheeting. At the lower part of the plate, you will find the slogan “The Lone Star State.”  Texas uses a seven-character plate number, an alphanumeric combination, that follows the ABC-1234 serial format. As of August 6 of 2022, the serials issued range from BBB-0001 to SDB-7428.

Is a front license plate required in Texas?

Front and rear plates are required by Texas state law for all vehicles except motorcycles, trailers, and antique vehicles which only require rear plates.

A registration sticker should also be on the vehicle’s windshield or on the rear license plate of a motorcycle or moped. The sticker displays the vehicle’s license plate number, county of registration, and partial vehicle identification number.

When and where should I register my vehicle in Texas?

As a resident, you must register your vehicle within 30 days of buying a used car. If you’re a new resident, you must register your vehicle within 30 days of residency. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicle (TxDMV) offers vehicle title and registration services online, or via the local county tax assessor-collector office, or approved locations.

What are the requirements for vehicle registration in Texas?

Bring the following to your local county tax office:

• Signed title and completed Application for Texas Title from the seller.
• Release of lien and/or power of attorney (if applicable).
• Proof of paid sales tax and car insurance (if purchasing a car from another state)
• Payment for fees and taxes.

For out-of-state vehicles, you must obtain the following prior to registration:

• Texas vehicle inspection report
• Verification of the vehicle identification number (VIN)

How do I renew my vehicle registration?

First, you need to get a vehicle inspection at any Texas inspection station within the owner’s/renewal recipient’s county of residence. Do this no earlier than 90 days before the registration expiration.

If it’s time to renew your vehicle registration, these are your three options:

• In Person: If you receive a registration renewal notice or if you have unpaid dues.
• Online: You can renew using Texas by Texas (TxT) website or mobile application. TxT is an official, account-based digital government assistant that provides an easy, fast, and secure way for Texans to take care of government services – like vehicle registration renewal.
• County Tax Office: Submit the requirements in person or by mail to a county tax office.
• Grocery Store or Other Approved Locations (varies by county): The same items are required as if you were renewing in person at the county tax office.

Does Texas have specialty license plates?

There are three categories of Texas license plates. General Issue plates are standard plates assigned to most vehicles. Car owners who want to personalize their car plates have the option to order Specialty Plates. These are uniquely designed plates that represent the vehicle owners’ personal interests. Only Souvenir Plates, made for decoration, are not street-legal or valid for use on any vehicle. Visit the TxDMV license plate page for more information.

Can I transfer my Texas license plate to another vehicle?

Yes, you can transfer a license plate in Texas from one vehicle to another vehicle you own and re-assign your license plate number. Your local county tax assessor collector’s office will issue a new registration sticker for your vehicle. Remove the registration sticker on your old vehicle when you detach the plates.

How long are Texas license plates good for?

Texas license plates are good for 7 years. As of November 1, 2016, the state of Texas will no longer automatically replace your plates after 7 years. If the license plate is lost or damaged, you may still apply at your county tax office for replacement plates.

More Resources for Texas Drivers or Vehicle Owners

• Texas Driver’s License & ID
• Texas Vehicle Registration
• Texas License Plate Information
• Buying or Selling a Vehicle in Texas
• Texas Vehicle Registration Fees
• Texas Driver Handbook
• Texas Contact Information