Check any California license plate
to get a reliable vehicle history report
The VinAudit California license plate lookup tool reveals hidden history that could affect your decision. Our vehicle history report can give you a full rundown on ownership changes, accident and theft records, liens, and more. By running either a license plate search or a VIN check, you know you’ve covered all bases and make your next car purchase with confidence.
What is a California License Plate Lookup?
LA California license plate search is an alternative method for obtaining vehicle information when the VIN is not readily available. This option is crucial because it offers additional transparency and assurance for buyers and sellers when assessing the vehicle’s value and condition.
Below is the list of vehicle information you can expect with a VinAudit California license plate lookup report:
Vehicle Specifications: The VIN decodes detailed vehicle data, including performance, fuel efficiency, handling, braking, exterior design, and dimensions.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Unique identifier for the vehicle, providing access to detailed history.
Title Records: Lists the vehicle’s registration history, showing the number and locations of registrations.
Odometer Readings: Indicate recorded mileage at different times, aiding buyers in assessing vehicle usage and condition accurately, and detecting potential odometer discrepancies.
Junk/Salvage/Insurance Records: Details vehicles declared total losses, registered at junk yards, or sold at salvage auctions.
Accident Records: Reports on minor and major accidents based on police and agency records, though the absence of records doesn’t ensure an accident-free history.
Theft Records: Identifies past or current theft reports and recoveries, warning of risks if the vehicle was stolen and recovered.
Lien/Impound/Export Records: Indicates if a finance company claims ownership if the vehicle was impounded, or exported outside the U.S.
Sale Records: Shows the vehicle’s sale history, including listings by private parties and dealerships.
Problem Checks: Lists checks for title brands, indicating potential issues with the vehicle’s title.
Supplemental Resources: Provides additional data like market value, 5-year ownership cost, and further information resources.
What You Need to Know About License Plates in California
California DMV and California License Plate Laws
Vehicle license plates are issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The plates are valid for five years in the Golden State. They must display current registration stickers and remain with the vehicle, except for certain types that can be reassigned to another vehicle upon request and payment. California law mandates license plates on cars since 1905, with most vehicles requiring both front and rear plates. Exceptions include motorcycles and trailers, which only need a rear plate. Replacement of stolen, damaged, or lost plates can be processed upon request and submission of requirements.
California DMV Services: At the California DMV, you can apply for vehicle registration and renewal, apply for driver’s license application and renewal, request for a duplicate driver’s license or identification card, change address on driver’s license or vehicle registration, check the status of driver’s license or registration application, order personalized license plates, schedule appointments for driver’s license or vehicle registration services, find a traffic school for a citation, submit a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability, and request a driving record.
California License Plate Number Formats
California plate numbers come in different number formats: standard license plates for auto, commercial, and trailer use 7 characters, while motorcycle and other vehicle plates have 6. There are two types of vanity plates: charity plates and special interest license plates. Custom plates allow 2-7 characters, while charity and specialized plates accommodate up to 6. Motorcycle vanity plates have space for 5 characters.
California License Plate Sizes
California license plates vary in size based on vehicle type. Automobiles, commercial vehicles, and trailers have 12″ x 6″ plates. Motorcycle plates issued before July 1, 1970, are 8″ x 5″, while those issued after are 7″ x 4″. Identification plates for other vehicles are typically 7″ x 4″ if issued since January 1, 1981, and 8″ x 5″ if issued before.CA License Plate FAQs: Transfers, Renewals, Specialized Plates and Owner Information
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about license plates in the Golden State. For more details, visit the California DMV portal.How do I transfer a license plate in California from one vehicle to another?
To transfer a license plate, ensure that both vehicles are registered in California and the plate is in good standing. Remove the plate from the original car, complete a transfer application with the necessary vehicle information, pay the transfer fee, and submit the application to the DMV by mail or in person. The transfer must be completed within 10 days of selling or transferring ownership of the original vehicle.
How do I renew my license plate registration in California?
To renew your license plate registration, start by checking your renewal date. If required, obtain a smog check. Next, ensure your address is updated with the DMV, and renew your registration online, by mail, by phone, or in person at a DMV office.
What should I do if my vehicle requires a smog check for registration renewal?
Find a licensed smog check station and obtain a smog certificate before renewing your registration.
What happens after I submit my renewal application and fees?
After submitting your application and fees, you will receive a new registration card and sticker in the mail. You can also print a temporary registration from the DMV website while waiting for your new registration.
Can I find the vehicle owner associated with a license plate in California?
Accessing the personal information of a license plate owner is not possible for the general public due to privacy laws. However, law enforcement, licensed private investigators, and the local DMV may be able to provide owner information in certain situations, such as accidents or official investigations. On the other hand, the contents of vehicle history reports are available as public records.
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