Wisconsin License Plate Lookup

Free Wisconsin License Plate Lookup

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

 

If you’re buying a used car in Wisconsin, it’s important to stay vigilant against potential fraud, such as title washing, odometer rollback, and stolen vehicles. To avoid these issues, thorough research is essential—and tools like a plate number lookup can make all the difference.

In Wisconsin, 93.7% of residents own at least one car. The state’s diverse landscape, ranging from rural farmland to bustling urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison, supports a robust used car market. However, Wisconsin’s harsh winters can cause rust and weather-related damage, making it vital to inspect vehicles carefully.

Conducting a car background check with a vehicle history report is crucial. With the availability of online resources, researching a vehicle has never been easier. A free Wisconsin plate number lookup is particularly useful for used car shoppers, providing detailed information about a vehicle using just its WI license plate number.

Fortunately, VinCheck.info offers a free Wisconsin plate check tool. Simply enter the license plate number into the search box to uncover valuable details about any vehicle registered in Wisconsin at no cost. This tool provides insights that can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

The Wisconsin DMV, the state’s official motor vehicle agency, also provides a free license plate search. This tool allows users to check the registration expiration date and access basic vehicle details, offering a quick overview of the vehicle’s legal status. For additional information, you can visit or contact the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

In addition to vehicle registration and license plate services, the Wisconsin DMV also handles vehicle titles, driver’s licenses, motor vehicle records, driving records, and replacements for lost or damaged documents. These services ensure drivers have access to all the tools they need for smooth vehicle ownership and management.


What Information Can You Uncover With a Wisconsin License Plate Lookup?

With VinCheck.info’s free Wisconsin License Plate Lookup, you can uncover various essential pieces of information about a vehicle registered in the state. This includes:

  1. Vehicle Specifications: Details such as make, model, year, engine type, dimensions, and weight.
  2. Title History: Information about past ownership records, title transfers, and any branding events such as salvage or rebuilt titles.
  3. Equipment Details: Specific features and equipment installed in the vehicle, such as entertainment systems, safety features, and optional extras.
  4. Fuel Efficiency: Data regarding the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, including miles per gallon (MPG) ratings for city and highway driving.
  5. Safety Rating: Insights into the vehicle’s safety ratings and performance in crash tests conducted by reputable agencies.
  6. Recalls & Defects: Alerts regarding any open recalls or known defects associated with the vehicle.
  7. Current Warranty: Information about any remaining warranties or service contracts applicable to the vehicle.
  8. Theft Records: Indicates if the vehicle has been reported as stolen.
  9. Salvage Auction Records: Information about any history of significant damage or repairs from salvage auctions.
  10. Sales Records: Details about the vehicle’s transaction history, including previous sales prices and ownership transfers.
  11. Accident Records: Information about the vehicle’s accident history, including past collisions, damages, repairs, and insurance claims.
  12. Flood Check Records: Alerts regarding any history of water damage, typically from floods or other natural disasters.
  13. Market Value: An estimate of the vehicle’s market value based on factors such as condition, mileage, and geographic location.
  14. Ownership Cost: Estimated ownership costs, including maintenance, insurance, depreciation, and other ongoing expenses.
  15. Inspection Checklist: A comprehensive checklist covering essential components and systems of the vehicle, typically used during pre-purchase inspections.

FAQs: Vehicle Registration and License Plates in Wisconsin

What are the features of Wisconsin license plates?

Wisconsin license plates are official registration tags issued by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) to vehicles registered in Wisconsin. These plates serve as a form of identification for vehicles and display a unique combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. 

The current standard license plate of Wisconsin features a white background with black and red text. The design includes a red “Wisconsin” at the top, followed by the state’s motto “America’s Dairyland” in black letters below it. To the left, there is a small image of a barn and a farm landscape, representing the state’s strong agricultural heritage. The plate number is centered in bold black characters, with a space for the month and year registration stickers on the right side. The plate has a clean, simple design reflecting Wisconsin’s identity and values.

Wisconsin License Plate

Wisconsin License Plate Serial Format:
ABC-1234

Wisconsin license plates are required to be affixed to both the front and rear of most vehicles, although certain vehicle types may only require a rear plate. They must also be renewed annually, and certain specialty plates may be available for an additional fee to support specific causes or organizations.

What are the different types of Wisconsin license plates?

Wisconsin issues a variety of WI license plates and registration stickers based on the owner’s special interest and vehicle type.

  • Automobiles
  • Buses
  • Dealers
  • Heavy trucks and trailers
  • Light trucks
  • Miscellaneous
  • Motorcycles
  • Official
  • Special plates
  • Tribal/Indian band
  • UW Logos

Vehicles registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP) are issued apportioned plates. See special license plates or the Wisconsin license plate guide for more information.

How do I get a replacement license plate in Wisconsin?

If your WI license plates need to be replaced because one or both of the plates have been lost, stolen, damaged, or are illegible, you must obtain replacement plates. You may order replacement plates online or submit an application by mail or in person. A new license plate number will be issued. When you receive your new plate, destroy the old plate.

Can you transfer license plates to another person in Wisconsin?

If you would like to transfer plates to a different vehicle in your name, you can use this online service. Check which license plates may be transferred online to confirm if this online service will work for your vehicle. Plates are transferable between spouses or domestic partners.

How can I get a vehicle title in Wisconsin?

When purchasing a new or used car, you must obtain a vehicle title at your local DMV. You should apply for a vehicle title as soon as you acquire a new vehicle.

To apply for a certificate of title in Wisconsin, you must present the following:

  • Certificate of title signed by the previous owner.
  • Completed physical or online Wisconsin Title & License Plate Application Form (MV1)
  • License plates, if you plan to transfer them to the new vehicle. If your current plates expire in less than 3 months, include your annual registration fee.
  • Title fee and sales tax payment by check or money order payable to “Registration Fee Trust.”
  • Current WI driver’s license or copy for mail transactions.

How to register a vehicle in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin residents must register their vehicles. Vehicle registration is valid for one year from the date of registration. To register your vehicle, submit the following to your DMV:

  • A Wisconsin​ ​title​​, signed by the seller(s), including:
    • ​An odometer reading completed by the seller(s) on the back of the title for vehicles less than 10 model years old.
    • A lien release if there is a lien holder listed on the front of the title and the loan is paid off.
  • ​​A Wisconsin Driver License or Identification card, last four digits of your social security number and date of birth.
  • Payment Information
    • Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover credit, debit card. Your credit or debit card will be charged a convenience fee for this service, or
    • Checking/savings accounts using ACH (Automated Clearing House) and avoid the convenience fee.
  • A printer with 8.5 by 11-inch paper.

After you pay and complete your transaction, you must mail the following items to receive your vehicle title, registration, and/or license plates. The mailing address is on the eMV Public eApplication/Receipt – there is no need to visit a DMV Service Center or an agency/business that offers title and registration services:

  • eMV Public receipt (see sample)
  • Valid original title signed by the seller

Other items, if applicable, such as

  • a valid original lien release if the vehicle currently has a lien
  • an MV2790 Trustee Statement for Certificate of Title if the seller is a trust

What are the minimum vehicle insurance requirements in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, it’s important to have the state’s minimum vehicle insurance to be covered in case of an accident. If you move to Wisconsin and own a vehicle, make sure to get the required insurance as soon as you become a resident.

The state mandates the following minimum coverage:

  • $10,000 for property damage
  • $25,000 for the injury or death of one person
  • $50,000 for the injury or death of more than one person

You’ll need to show proof of insurance if you’re pulled over or involved in an accident and law enforcement asks for it.

How do you handle the registration and title of a vehicle with liens?

If the lienholder agrees to the title transfer, ask them for a lien release document. Make sure you get it in writing. If you still owe money on the loan, pay it off to get the lien released.

Then, gather all the necessary documents: the lien release, vehicle title, bill of sale, your ID, and maybe a Title/License Plate Application (Form MV1), among others. Head to a Wisconsin DMV office, submit the paperwork and pay the fees. The DMV will process everything and issue a new title and registration in your name, free of any liens.

If the lienholder doesn’t agree to the title transfer, consider paying off the lien or refinancing the vehicle. Keep records of all your communications. If needed, you might want to seek legal advice to explore your options, such as filing a lawsuit or negotiating further. Another option is to sell the vehicle with the lien if the buyer agrees to assume or pay it off. Just make sure everyone is on the same page and there’s clear communication and agreement.

Can I check the vehicle owner through Wisconsin license plate search?

As an alternative to the Wisconsin license plate search, Wisconsin’s Open Records Law (Wis. Stat. 19.31 – 19.39) gives the public access to records collected by the state government, including DMV records, while balancing individual privacy. To obtain DMV records, you need to fill out the Vehicle/Driver Record Information Request (MV2896) and pay the appropriate fee. In Section C, you’ll indicate the authority under which you’re requesting the records. It’s your responsibility to determine your eligibility to access the records.

If you submit the form fraudulently, you could face fines under the Federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act, which protects the privacy of personal information in DMV records. This act was passed in 1994 and upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2000.

While VinCheck.info offers a free license plate lookup tool that provides a wealth of information, it doesn’t show personal data about previous car owners. Instead, its vehicle owner lookup will get you details like the ownership timeline, how often the ownership has changed, and the transfer dates.

What do I need to get a Wisconsin driver’s license?

Here are the documents you’ll need to present when applying for driver’s license:

  • Proof of Name and Date of Birth: A birth certificate or passport works well.
  • Proof of Identity: This can be a passport, military ID, or another form of photo identification.
  • Proof of Citizenship or Legal Status in the U.S.: A passport or certificate of naturalization, or if you’re not a citizen, valid immigration documents.
  • Proof of Wisconsin Residency: A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your current address.
  • Social Security Number: Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number.
  • Proof of Name Change: If your name is different from what’s on your birth certificate, you’ll need to provide documents for each name change (like a marriage certificate or court order).

Additionally, you’ll need to pay the DMV fees and pass a driving and/or emissions test to be eligible for a driver’s license.


Wherever you are in Wisconsin, whether in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, or elsewhere, conducting a license plate lookup before buying a used vehicle is vital. It ensures safety, saves money, and informs your decision. Don’t skip this step; it’s quick and can uncover hidden issues. 

Protect your investment—run a Wisconsin license plate check today, no matter where you are in Wisconsin.

  • Adams
  • Ashland
  • Barron
  • Bayfield
  • Brown
  • Buffalo
  • Burnett
  • Calumet
  • Chippewa
  • Clark
  • Columbia
  • Crawford
  • Dane
  • Dodge
  • Door
  • Douglas
  • Dunn
  • Eau Claire
  • Florence
  • Fond du Lac
  • Forest
  • Grant
  • Green
  • Green Lake
  • Iowa
  • Iron
  • Jackson
  • Jefferson
  • Juneau
  • Kenosha
  • Kewaunee
  • Langlade
  • La Crosse
  • Lafayette
  • Lincoln

Buying a car in Wisconsin? Avoid buying a lemon!

  1. Research: Start by researching the specific make and model you’re interested in. Look for reviews, reliability ratings, and common issues associated with that vehicle.
  2. Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on the car, including taxes, registration, and insurance costs.
  3. Vehicle History Report: Obtain a vehicle history report using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to check for any accidents, title issues, or odometer discrepancies.
  4. Inspect the Car: Physically inspect the vehicle or have a trusted mechanic do it for you. Look for signs of wear, damage, or potential issues.
  5. Test Drive: Always take the car for a test drive to evaluate its performance and handling.
  6. Verify Title and Ownership: Ensure the seller has a clear title to the vehicle and verify the ownership documents.
  7. Get a Warranty: Consider purchasing a warranty or certified pre-owned vehicle for added peace of mind.
  8. Negotiate Price: Negotiate the price with the seller, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the deal isn’t right.
  9. Review the Contract: Carefully read and understand the terms of the sale contract before signing.
  10. Registration and Insurance: After the purchase, complete the necessary paperwork for registration and obtain insurance coverage.
  11. Lemon Law Protection: Familiarize yourself with Wisconsin’s Lemon Law, which provides protections for buyers of defective vehicles.
  12. Keep Records: Maintain all records related to the purchase, including receipts, service history, and the bill of sale.

Run a Wisconsin Free License Plate Lookup to uncover the full story of your Wisconsin-registered vehicle.

Enter a Wisconsin License Plate Number: