Free Texas License Plate Lookup

Verify the vehicle’s history before making a purchase. Perform a Texas license plate lookup.

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In Texas, license plate lookup is a valuable tool that can help individuals to gather important information about a vehicle based on its license plate number. Whether you are trying to track down the owner of a vehicle, check for any outstanding tickets or violations, or simply verify the make and model of a car, a license plate lookup can provide you with valuable information quickly and easily.

What is a Texas License Plate?

A Texas license plate is a vehicle registration plate issued to vehicles registered in the state of Texas. Each plate contains a combination of letters, numbers, and sometimes special symbols. These plates must be displayed on both the front and rear of the vehicle. The license plate not only serves as a way to identify a vehicle but also acts as a proof of ownership for the vehicle owner.

License plate issuance in Texas is handled by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). When you register your vehicle in the state of Texas, you will be issued a standard license plate with a unique TX license plate number. If you are interested in obtaining a specialty plate, you can choose from a variety of options offered by the Texas DMV.

The current general-issue plate design is called “The Texas Classic.” Introduced in July 2012, it prioritizes public safety by featuring two high-visibility security threads embedded into the plate sheeting. These threads make it easier for law enforcement to identify legitimate plates.

As of November 1, 2016, Texas no longer automatically replaces license plates after 7 years. However, if your plates need replacement due to cosmetic or readability reasons, you can apply for new ones at your county tax office.

How to Get Texas License Plates

Getting a Texas license plate can be done either in person or online.

    1. To start, take your vehicle to a certified inspection station and obtain a passing Texas inspection. Bring proof of insurance as well.
    2. If you choose to apply in person, visit your local county tax-assessor collector office. You’ll need:
        • Insurance card
        • Vehicle Inspection Report
        • Proof of ownership (registration or title from your previous state)
        • Proof of identification
        • Payment for fees
    3. If you prefer to apply online, visit the Texas DMV website and follow the instructions for ordering new plates.
    4. Once your order is processed, your new license plates will be sent to you in the mail.

Remember to attach the plates to your vehicle as soon as you receive them to comply with Texas state laws.

What information do I get from a Texas license plate search?

    • Vehicle Specifications: Basic details such as dimensions, type of engine and transmission, and trim as well as other performance-related information.
    • Vehicle Records: History of registration, any record of sales, sales at a salvage auction, accident, lien, theft, and other potential issues.
    • Market Value: Estimates based on the price range for the same make and model in Texas and other parts of the US.
    • Safety Ratings: Safety scores based on crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
    • Fuel Efficiency: Efficient consumption of fuel in miles per gallon.
    • Warranty and Recalls: Status of warranty coverage, recall campaigns and remedies.
Texas DMV

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles is tasked with providing auto-related government services like the issuance of vehicle registration, title, license plate, temporary permit and placard. Meanwhile, the Texas Department of Public Safety, through its Driver License Division, offers assistance with driver licensing, including renewal and upgrade to commercial driver’s license. The government issues a pair of license plates for each registered vehicle in the state. Since 2012, Texas DMV has issued ‘Texas Classic’ design with a serial format of ‘ABC-1234’ for regular Texas license plates.

Texas License Plates

What can a Texas license plate number tell you?

A Texas license plate number is a good reference point for vehicle info. It can help law enforcement resolve any crime involving the car. Traffic officers, likewise, can identify traffic violators by checking the plate. But for average car buyers, it can aid them in assessing their prospective cars through a free Tennessee license plate lookup.

Texas License Plates

Texas License Plate Lookup

Enter a Texas license plate number to access a vehicle history report

Texas License Plate Lookup

Where can I find the license plate number?

The number on the two Texas license plates must match. To lend more credence to authenticity, the two license plates must be placed on the front and back of the car at the time of inspection. The vehicle documents issued by the state, such as the registration and title, must also bear the same number as those found on the plates. In case of doubt, get in touch with Texas DMV to confirm if the number ascribed to a vehicle were legit.

Texas License Plate Lookup

What do I get out of a Texas license plate lookup?

Unlock a comprehensive vehicle report using the vehicle’s license plate number
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Vehicle Specifications

basic details such as dimensions, type of engine and transmission, and trim as well as other performance-related information

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Vehicle Records

history of registration, any record of sales, sales at a salvage auction, accident, lien, theft, and other potential issues

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Market Value

estimates based on the price range for the same make and model in Texas and other parts of the US

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Safety Ratings

safety scores based on crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

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Fuel Efficiency

efficient consumption of fuel in miles per gallon

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Warranty and Recalls

status of warranty coverage, recall campaigns and remedies

nmvtis

What are the sources of license plate search results?

Vehicle.report operates an intensive and extensive vehicle database that can fill in the gaps in car buyers’ and other parties’ knowledge of a vehicle. It receives ample support from trusted car data providers. There are many organizations that provide info for the system. Among the most notable are DMVs, NMVTIS, manufacturers, dealerships, safety inspection agents, traffic agencies, law enforcement, repair shops, vehicle rental companies and insurance providers.

nmvtis

Texas License Plate Lookup

Enter a Texas license plate number to access a comprehensive vehicle history report

Texas License Plate FAQs

Answers to the most frequently asked questions on license plate lookup

What is the difference between a Texas license plate lookup and a Texas VIN check?

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and license plate number are similar. The only difference is the former is provided by the manufacturer, while the latter comes from the state of registration. A Texas license plate lookup and a Texas VIN check use their respective search indexes to gather vehicle info. Both tools are available at Vehicle.report.

What are the types of license plates in Texas?

There are many license plate types in Texas. Each may require a different set of requirements. In Texas, alternative plate designs generally fall into three categories, namely, (1) General Issue, (2) Specialty and (3) Souvenir. Aside from these, applicants may also order a personalized license plate.

Can I get a personalized license plate in Texas?

Applicants must secure vehicle registration before requesting personalized plates. There is no strict limit to the alphanumeric combinations that can be displayed. Texas DMV reserves the right to reject any inappropriate combination. The combination must be unique and not identical to other Texas plate numbers.

How can I apply for a Texas license plate?

New car owners have 30 days to register their vehicles with the Texas DMV. Upon completion, they will be eligible for a pair of Texas license plates. However, before they could be acknowledged as recipients, they need to comply with requirements. They need to present the necessary vehicle documentation to qualify.

Is a license plate search legal in Texas?

Yes, conducting a license plate search is legal in Texas as long as it is done for legitimate purposes and in compliance with state laws and regulations.

How can I perform a Texas license plate lookup?

To conduct a Texas license plate lookup, you can utilize online platforms or tools specifically designed for searching vehicle information based on license plate numbers.

Texas VIN Check

Search our comprehensive vehicle history database using any Texas VIN