How to Check Car Plate Numbers
Identify the state where the car is licensed., Subscribe to an online information search website., Hire a private detective., Another option is to hire a certified information broker.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Identify the state where the car is licensed.
To do the most basic type of search, you will need to search for the state's DMV website online.
Find the "Plate Inquiry," or Request for Record Information, web page or call your local DMV to learn how you can fill out a form to access some license plate information.
Pay the DMV fee for license plate inquiries and type or write in the license plate number.
You can find the registration date, the renewal date, the vehicle make and the vehicle year.
You will not be able to access personal information like names and social security numbers. -
Step 2: Subscribe to an online information search website.
If you want to access more personal information, but you want to do the investigation yourself, then this is your next option.
These services are also referred to as "online information brokers." Services, like docusearch, charge $15 to $50 per month for access to online information that has been gathered by researchers and information companies.
You can save money if you research license information regularly by choosing a subscription service.
In almost all cases, the quality of the information you get is not guaranteed.
You could end up with a first name, last name, phone number, address or any combination of personal information, large and small. , The Driver's Privacy Protection Act allows private detectives to use databases that track license plates.
Licensed private detectives may charge between $100 and $1,000 for this service, but they are more likely to get results.
Hiring a private detective can be a costly option, but it is usually a 1-time fee.
Ask the detective to guarantee the information you desire when you agree to a fee. , Similar to the services held at online agencies, these brokers are researchers that can yield results using public records and other services for a fee.
Check online listings and the local phone book for this service. -
Step 3: Hire a private detective.
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Step 4: Another option is to hire a certified information broker.
Detailed Guide
To do the most basic type of search, you will need to search for the state's DMV website online.
Find the "Plate Inquiry," or Request for Record Information, web page or call your local DMV to learn how you can fill out a form to access some license plate information.
Pay the DMV fee for license plate inquiries and type or write in the license plate number.
You can find the registration date, the renewal date, the vehicle make and the vehicle year.
You will not be able to access personal information like names and social security numbers.
If you want to access more personal information, but you want to do the investigation yourself, then this is your next option.
These services are also referred to as "online information brokers." Services, like docusearch, charge $15 to $50 per month for access to online information that has been gathered by researchers and information companies.
You can save money if you research license information regularly by choosing a subscription service.
In almost all cases, the quality of the information you get is not guaranteed.
You could end up with a first name, last name, phone number, address or any combination of personal information, large and small. , The Driver's Privacy Protection Act allows private detectives to use databases that track license plates.
Licensed private detectives may charge between $100 and $1,000 for this service, but they are more likely to get results.
Hiring a private detective can be a costly option, but it is usually a 1-time fee.
Ask the detective to guarantee the information you desire when you agree to a fee. , Similar to the services held at online agencies, these brokers are researchers that can yield results using public records and other services for a fee.
Check online listings and the local phone book for this service.
About the Author
Carolyn Graham
Professional writer focused on creating easy-to-follow pet care tutorials.
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