There are a wide range of reasons why you want to find out a vehicle’s registered owner. However, you may find it challenging to do that with a simple Google search. Don’t be upset. This post will introduce several official and third-party websites to perform a vehicle registration search by VIN or license plate.

Method 1 Contact state DMV

Vehicle registration information is typically managed at the state level, while each state has its own Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) responsible for vehicle registration and related services. Contacting the local DMV is the easiest way to obtain official information about vehicle registration.

1. Find relevant websites by searching for a state name along with DMV in a search engine.
2. On the DMV website, locate the vehicle registration check section.
3. Enter a VIN number and follow the verification process. Once completed, you should receive the registration status of the vehicle.

However, you may only request your own vehicle record. If you’re requesting another person’s vehicle record, you need to submit a specific form and prepare a fee (e.g. $2 for an online request in California) for that.

If you encounter any issues or the information provided is not clear, you can contact the DMV directly for further assistance.

Method 2 Look up vehicle info

BeenVerified is an approved NMVTIS (National Motor Vehicle Title Information System) data provider, offering vehicle reports by VIN and license plate. Supported by a robust data source, it provides insight into valuable vehicle information such as ownership cost, sale listings, market value, vehicle specs, and more when available.

To run a vehicle registration search, follow these steps:

1. Go to the BeenVerified search page.
2. Fill in a VIN number or license plate, and click Search.
   
3. You’ll be redirected to a new page to obtain a detailed report after a few minutes. Once done, open the report and check the vehicle information.
   

Though BeenVerified doesn’t provide vehicle registration details due to the restriction of federal law, you can obtain more information about vehicle from the report.

Method 3 Search registered vehicle

Bumper is a leading expert dedicated to vehicle searches. If you want to reveal a vehicle’s details, look no further. Bumper features accessing data from NMVTIS, JD Power, NHTSA, and many other auto industry data sources including state-level government agencies, insurance providers, and auto industry partners.

Here is how you can use it:

1. Go ahead to the Bumper home page.
2. Enter a VIN or license number, and click Search.
   
3. Wait for a while when the system is generating your vehicle report. After that, browse the report to look up the car information. You may also find accident history, manufacturer recalls, sale history, salvage, and other branded titles in the report.
   

Method 4 Check more information

National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) provides a free service called VINCheck that allows people to check if a vehicle has been reported as stolen but not recovered, or if it has been reported as a salvage vehicle by participating NICB member insurance companies.

Though it doesn’t offer detailed registration information, it can give you important details about the vehicle’s history.

How to register a vehicle?

Registering a vehicle involves officially documenting and recording the vehicle’s ownership and details with the appropriate government agency. The process for registering a vehicle can vary depending on the state. Here we provide a general overview of how to register a vehicle:

1. Gather Required Documents: Before heading to the registration office, gather the necessary documents. Typical requirements include:
   – Valid identification (driver’s license or state ID).
   – Proof of insurance meeting the state’s minimum requirements.
   – Emission test certificate (if required by your state).
   – Vehicle safety inspection certificate (if required by your state).
   – Any additional documents specific to your state’s requirements.
2. Check Your State’s Requirements: Check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency website for specific requirements and fees. Each state may have different procedures and documents needed for registration.
3. Visit the Local DMV or Authorized Office: Once you have the necessary documents, visit the local DMV office or an authorized vehicle registration office. Some states also allow you to register online through their official website.
4. Complete Registration Forms: At the office, you’ll be asked to fill out registration forms with your personal information and details about the vehicle.
5. Submit Documents and Pay Fees: Submit the required documents and pay the registration fees, which can vary depending on the state.
6. Receive Registration Materials: After completing the registration process and paying the fees, you’ll receive your vehicle registration materials, which typically include a registration card and a license plate or registration sticker.
7. Display the Registration: Attach the license plates or registration sticker to your vehicle as directed by your state’s regulations. Keep the registration card in the car as proof of registration.

It’s essential to complete the registration process promptly after acquiring a new or used vehicle. Driving an unregistered vehicle or letting the registration expire can result in fines or penalties.