Minnesota License Plate Lookup

Our license plate search is different because we utilize a massive database of public records provided by the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS), NMVTIS and third-party sources, including J.D. Power.

If you’re interested in learning more about a Minnesota-registered vehicle, we could provide you with a detailed report. When you use Bumper, our database pulls info from public and private third party sources, so we can provide vehicle history reports, vehicle market value, title checks, recall checks and other helpful info and perks—whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a vehicle.

Try a Bumper subscription to get access to 50 Minnesota license plate reports a month!

Information obtainable from a lookup

Purchase history

Alicense plate lookup can provide the number of current and past owners. Knowing the purchase history of a vehicle may be crucial for buyers. For instance, when purchasing a used car, a buyer might want to verify the last time the vehicle was sold and the reported mileage at that time. This can help avoid purchasing a stolen vehicle or one with a dubious background.

Vehicle history

A license plate lookup could also reveal vehicle history. This history can include accident records*, reported mileage, and lien/title discrepancies. Accident history is useful for assessing the vehicle’s potential condition and determining whether it has undergone major repairs that might affect its longevity or safety. Reported mileage is critical for verifying that the mileage hasn’t been tampered with, a potential issue in used car sales. Lien and title discrepancies can impact ownership rights and determine if the vehicle has any outstanding debts against it.

Different platforms offer varying levels of detail and accuracy in the information provided. For example, DMV databases generally offer the most reliable information but may require specific authorization for access.

Types of Minnesota license plates

Standard license plates

Standard license plates in Minnesota are issued to most vehicles operating within the state. These plates carry the state’s general design which has persisted with minor changes since 1978. It features a lake scene with pale blue and white water, a soft blue sky, a green island with trees, and a small green canoe. The current plate design has black serial lettering with a silhouette of the state’s shape dividing the plate number. In blue, the words “EXPLORE Minnesota.com” appear on the top, and “10,000 lakes” appears centered on the bottom. Since 2017 the plates have an ABC-123 serial format with three letters followed by three numbers.

Specialized plates

Minnesota offers a wide range of specialized plates to accommodate various interests and affiliations. These plates often have specific eligibility requirements or entail additional fees. Many require an annual contribution of $10-$60 to a fund related to the plate in question.

Military plates

Veteran plates are available to honorably discharged veterans from the U.S. Armed Forces. Proof of service is required to apply.

Special interest plates

Minnesota’s special interest plates encompass a wide range of categories, catering to various personal passions and causes. These include plates for collectors, remembering victims of impaired drivers, supporting troops, and honoring volunteer firefighters and ambulance attendants. Additionally, they cover interests like MN Golf and the Minnesota 100 Club, as well as environmental and recreational themes such as state parks and trails, agriculture, and critical habitat.

Collegiate plates

Minnesota’s collegiate license plates allow drivers to show their support for state universities and colleges. Featuring distinctive designs with school logos, these plates celebrate educational institutions and foster school pride on the road.

Disability plates

Disability plates are available for people with qualifying disabilities, providing them with special parking privileges.

New designs

Minnesota has introduced numerous new designs in 2024, including several tied to professional sports teams and nonprofit organizations:

1. Blackout plate: Available for $15 for autos/trucks and $13.50 for motorcycles. An additional $30 annual contribution to the Driver and Vehicle Services Operating Account is required. This plate can be obtained the same day from select offices, subject to inventory.
2. Lions Club plate: Priced at $15.50 for autos/trucks and $13.50 for motorcycles, requiring a $25 first-time and $5 annual contribution to the Lions Club International.
3. Minnesota Lynx, Timberwolves, and Twins plates: Each requires a $15.50 fee for autos/trucks, $13.50 for motorcycles, and a $30 annual contribution to the respective professional sports team’s foundation.
4. Minnesota Vikings and Wild plates: A $15 fee for autos/trucks and $13.50 for motorcycles with a $30 annual contribution to the Driver and Vehicle Services Operating Account. These can also be obtained the same day at specific offices.

Application process for license plates

Required documentation

When applying for license plates in Minnesota, ensuring you have all necessary documentation is crucial. You will need:

1. Proof of identity: A valid driver’s license or state-issued identification card.

2. Vehicle details:

• Current certificate of title
• Registration card
• Bill of sale, if applicable

New residents need to provide documentation within a 60-day grace period and can visit any motor vehicle Deputy Registrar Office or mail the Application to Title and Register a Motor Vehicle (PS2000).

Registration forms

Follow these steps to complete and submit your application:

1. Obtain the application: Download the required form, Application to Title and Register a Motor Vehicle (PS2000), from the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) website.

2. Complete the form: Fill out all the required fields, including:

• Full name and address
• Vehicle identification number (VIN)
• Make, model, and year of the vehicle
• Ownership details

3. Attach required documents:

• Proof of identity
• Vehicle’s certificate of title or registration card
• Bill of sale if applicable

4. Submission:

• In-Person: Visit any DVS office with your completed form and documents. An officer will verify and process your application on the spot.
• By Mail: Send your completed form and copies of required documents to:

Driver and Vehicle Services

445 Minnesota Street

St. Paul, MN 55101-5160

By adhering to these steps and ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete, applicants can efficiently navigate the process of obtaining their Minnesota license plates.

License plate related fees

Cost of obtaining license plates

Standard fees

Obtaining license plates in Minnesota involves several standard fees that include:

1. Title fee: $8.25 (plus $2 for each lien recorded)
2. Transfer tax: $10
3. Public safety vehicle fee: $3.50
4. Technology surcharge: $2.25
5. Filing fees: $12

Special plate fees

Special license plates, such as those for veterans, personalized plates, or those supporting a cause, come with additional fees:

1. Personalized plates: $100
2. Special interest plates: Most special plates cost $13.50 or $15.50, with a few exceptions.
3. Veteran and disability plates: Often have reduced costs or additional benefits.

Renewal process

Renewal methods

To renew your license plates in Minnesota, you have three methods available: online, by mail, or in person.

Online renewal

To renew online, visit the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s website and use the Vehicle Services portal. Here, you’ll need to enter your vehicle’s details and follow the prompts to complete the process. Ensure your information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.

Mail renewal

For mail renewals, you must complete the Vehicle Registration Renewal Notice sent to you. Include any necessary documentation, such as a current insurance card, and mail it to the address provided on the notice. Doing this well ahead of the expiration date ensures your new tabs arrive in time.

In-person renewal

To renew in person, visit any Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services office. Bring your renewal notice, proof of insurance, and payment. It’s advisable to go earlier in the month to avoid long lines.

Lost or stolen license plate process

Replacement process

To replace your lost, stolen, or destroyed license plates in Minnesota, go to your local DMV office. Ensure you do the following:

1. Complete the application: Fill out the Application for Duplicate Plates and/or Stickers (Form PS2067B)

2. Indicate the reason: Specify whether the plates were lost, stolen, or destroyed.

3. Provide your current registration card: You need to have your current registration card with you.

4. Pay the fees: There is an $8 filing fee plus the cost of the duplicate plates. The fees are:

• Double plates: $15.50
• Single plate: $13.50
• Duplicate stickers: $1.50

5. Submit the application: You can submit your application and payment in person at a local DVS office or by mail to:

MN Department of Public Safety

Driver and Vehicle Services

445 Minnesota Street

Saint Paul, MN 55101

Legal considerations & privacy

Minnesota statutes transportation § 169.79

Under Minnesota Statutes Transportation § 169.79, it is illegal to use any cover on a license plate that alters or obscures the plate’s visibility. This restriction ensures that law enforcement and automated systems can accurately read license plates. Covers that distort the appearance of characters or background, either partially or entirely, are strictly prohibited. Violators face fines and potential legal action.

Section 13.824, subdivision 2(d)

Section 13.824, Subdivision 2(d) of the Minnesota statutes imposes stringent regulations on the use of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) data. ALPR data collection is permitted only for specific law enforcement purposes and must be retained for no longer than 60 days, unless part of an active investigation. Data must be secure.rely stored and access is restricted, ensuring comprehensive protection against misuse. Law enforcement agencies are required to maintain an audit trail of ALPR data usage to enhance accountability.