What makes our Virginia license plate search stand out?

Our Virginia license plate lookup tool utilizes a massive database of public records provided by Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), NMVTIS, NHTSA and other third-party data sources like J.D. Power. Whether you spotted a vehicle you like on Route 17 or you’re buying a vehicle in Roanoke, our Virginia license plate lookup is a great first step if you’re interested in a VA vehicle. Our robust vehicle reports may help you find priceless vehicle info, including available accident history and vehicle specs.

What information can you find with a Virginia license plate search?

With Bumper, our VA license plate lookup can help you access extensive vehicle reports loaded with high-value vehicle data, potentially including: Sales history Market value Past ownership Accident history Liens on the vehicle Manufacturer recalls Estimated ownership costs Salvage and other branded titles Equipment and trim specifications Whether you’re keeping your vehicle, buying a new one or selling your Virginia vehicle , our license plate searches can be invaluable. We can also help you check the estimated market value of your Virginia-based ride!

How can a Virginia license plate lookup help you?

While the roads of vehicle ownership are often complex, our Virginia license plate lookup can provide you with critical data to try and help you stay on the straight and narrow. When you want to conquer the challenges of buying, selling, or keeping your VA-based vehicle, we can help. Say you’re a car buyer in Newport News and you want to negotiate the best deal possible. We can help you research VA-registered vehicles to try and find valuable information, including its available accident history, salvaged titles, flood damage and liens. Our license plate searches can even highlight vehicles impacted by open recalls , Virginia’s lemon laws, and damage caused by VA’s often harsh weather, including the tropical storms and hurricanes that blow in off the Atlantic. Issues such as these can really dent a prospective vehicle’s value! Or perhaps you’re a vehicle seller in Richmond, and you want to score a quick sale. Type in your Virginia vehicle’s license plate number, and we can help you check the estimated value of your vehicle in VA. Then, you can set a reasonable asking price which may help sell your ride ASAP. Trying to decide between multiple vehicles? We can help you compare them side by side so you get the ride that’s just right for you!

Why use our Virginia license plate search?

When you use our Bumper Virginia license plate lookup, we compile the data you may need to know about specific Virginia vehicles—all in one online dashboard, iOS and Google mobile apps, and downloadable PDF form. Rather than spending more on a competitor or getting bogged down in requests to Virginia public records sources, you can subscribe to Bumper. Our vehicle reports are robust and intuitive, so you can gather the info you may need which could help you feel more confident in managing your vehicles. From Monticello to Norfolk, no matter where you reside in VA, our comprehensive vehicle reports could help you with your vehicle journey. Whether you’re buying a new VA vehicle, selling an old ride or trying to keep ownership costs low, our reports may help give you all the assurance you need.

Do you need front and rear license plates in Virginia?

Yes, front and rear plates are required in Virginia , although there may be exceptions for some vehicles, including motorcycles, tractors and trailers. We offer license plate lookup info for vehicles in every state, including nearby Maryland , North Carolina , Pennsylvania , New Jersey , and even New York ! While some states only require a rear license plate, most states require dual plates, and that includes VA. The presence of front and rear license plates makes it easier for law enforcement to identify vehicles on the road. It’s also a big assist for motorists who need to identify vehicles in case of any insurance liability issues. Front and rear plates also make it more convenient to try and find the license plate number of any Virginia-registered vehicle you might be interested in learning more about. That said, if you already have a Virginia vehicle’s identification number, or VIN, we can help you run a ** ** VIN search ! According to the Federal Highway Administration, there are over 7 million vehicles registered in Virginia, from buses and motorcycles to medium and heavy duty trucks—all with a VA license plate. It’s also noteworthy that according to the Department of Energy , there are more than 30,000 electric vehicles in Virginia!

Virginia License Plate Lookup

Interested in learning more about a vehicle in the Old Dominion? Just enter a Virginia license plate number!

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Interested in learning more about a vehicle in the Old Dominion? Just enter a Virginia license plate number!

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Benefits of Virginia license plate lookup
Types of license plates in Virginia
Virginia DMV special plates
Registering a vehicle in Virginia
Renewing your vehicle registration
Legal considerations

Virginia license plate lookups can be a vital tool for vehicle owners, potential buyers, and industry professionals. Conducting a lookup could reveal a range of essential data, including recall notices, and potentially major issues the vehicle might have faced from the time of manufacture.

The insights gained through a Virginia license plate lookup, including title record data, problem checks, and vehicle specifications, help inform the research of all parties, assisting in a transparent vehicle transaction process.

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Benefits of Virginia license plate lookup

Access to vehicle history reports

A Virginia license plate lookup may allow individuals to retrieve detailed vehicle history reports. These reports can potentially also reveal records of salvage or theft which can significantly impact a vehicle’s value and safety. For instance, a potential buyer discovering that a car has a salvage title through a license plate lookup might decide against purchasing it to avoid future repair costs and safety issues. Access to such detailed history reports helps inform buyers, contributing to their research and assisting them in their efforts to avoid vehicles with hidden problems.

Vehicle specifications

Beyond the history, a Virginia license plate lookup could provide details about vehicle specifications. These specifics include engine type, fuel efficiency, and factory-installed options, offering a deeper understanding of the vehicle in question. For example, a buyer searching for an eco-friendly car can use the lookup to confirm whether a vehicle has a hybrid engine. This information helps in aligning purchases with personal preferences and requirements, helping buyers find exactly what they are looking for.

Sales History

Another critical piece of information obtained from a Virginia license plate lookup is the sales history, detailing the number of previous owners and changes in possession. This insight is important for researching the vehicle’s potential reliability. For example, learning that a car has had multiple owners in a short period might signal unresolved issues or frequent problems, prompting the potential buyer to dig deeper or seek other options. Conversely, a vehicle with a single long-term owner might indicate better maintenance and overall condition, providing some reassurance to the buyer.

Accessing detailed vehicle history reports, specifications, and sales history through a Virginia license plate lookup is invaluable. It tries to equip buyers and vehicle owners with essential knowledge, ensuring transparency and aiding in the acquisition of safer, more reliable vehicles.

How to perform online Virginia license plate lookups:

Visit Bumper.com: Go to Bumper’s License Plate Lookup page.
Enter license plate number: Input the license plate number of the vehicle you want to look up. Bumper will use this information to try to retrieve relevant data.
Search results: Bumper could provide you with information related to the vehicle, including salvage titles, manufacturer recalls, market value, and more.
Explore details: Review the details provided in the search results. This may better inform your research when buying or selling a vehicle.

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Types of license plates in Virginia

Standard plates

The standard license plate in Virginia features raised dark blue numbers on a reflective white background, with “VIRGINIA” printed in blue across the top center. The slogan “VIRGINIA IS FOR LOVERS” appears below the plate number in black lettering, with a red heart in place of the v in lovers. The current plate format follows a ABC-1234 serial format with three letters followed by four numbers.

Special interest plates

Virginia offers 130+ special interest license plates that cater to a wide range of interests and affiliations. These plates include options for professional organizations, sororities, environmental causes, charitable initiatives, and hobby enthusiasts, such as those for the AFL-CIO, Alpha Kappa Alpha, the Chesapeake Bay, and aviation enthusiasts. These plates can be found using the plate search tool.

Most of these plates cost $10 annually, with an additional $10 for customization. Select revenue-sharing plates are priced at $25 annually, with a portion of the fee supporting various charitable programs in Virginia. These plates allow drivers to showcase their passions while contributing to meaningful causes throughout the state.

College plates

Virginia offers over 90 college-themed license plates, representing both in-state and out-of-state universities. These plates allow alumni, students, and supporters to proudly display their school spirit on their vehicles. Most of these plates come with a $25 annual fee in addition to standard registration costs. Some college plates are also revenue-sharing plates, where a portion of the fee supports programs at the respective universities. These plates not only let drivers show their allegiance to their alma maters but also contribute to educational initiatives and programs associated with the schools.

Military plates

Virginia offers over 60 military-themed license plates to honor those who have served in various branches of the armed forces. Many of these plates have no annual fee, though there is a $10 fee for personalization. Some plates, like those for Army Reserve members, have a $10 annual fee, while others, such as the Navy & Marine Corps Medal plates, require a one-time fee. To obtain certain plates, applicants must provide proof of service or awards, such as a copy of a certificate, official records, or form DD214 issued by the US Department of Defense. These plates serve as a tribute to military service and provide a personalized way to honor veterans’ achievements.

Other plates

Virginia offers a variety of other specialty license plates tailored to specific vehicle types and interests, including options for amateur radio operators, antique vehicles, farm vehicles, taxis, and trailers. The fees for these plates vary depending on the selection, with some requiring an annual fee, others having a one-time fee, and some available at no additional cost. These plates provide a way for vehicle owners to meet specific regulatory requirements or showcase their unique interests and vehicle types while ensuring proper identification and compliance.

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Virginia DMV special plates

How to make a purchase

Purchasing special plates can be done either via the DMV’s website or by visiting a DMV customer service center. The instructions for both online and in-person purchases are straightforward and detailed on the DMV site.

Online purchase process:

Review available plates: Visit the DMV’s dedicated page to browse the wide array of special plates available.
Selection: Choose the desired plate that matches your interest or affiliation.
Personalize (optional): If desired, personalize your plate using up to seven characters. Personalized plates cost an additional $10 per year in most cases.
Fill out information: Enter the necessary vehicle and personal details.
Payment: Complete the transaction by paying the applicable fees.
Confirmation: Receive a confirmation email that includes all transaction details.

In-person purchase process:

Visit DMV center: Go to any DMV customer service center.
Plate selection: Consult with DMV staff to select your desired special plate.
Personalize (optional): Request any personalization; be aware of the additional cost and guidelines.
Submit Documentation: Provide the required vehicle and personal information.
Payment: Pay the applicable fees at the service counter.
Completion: Receive a receipt and details about when your plate will be ready for pickup or mailed to you.

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Registering a vehicle in Virginia

Steps to register

Get a Virginia Driver’s License: Obtain your Virginia driver’s license within 60 days of moving, or 30 days if you have a CDL. When applying, consider upgrading to a REAL ID, which will be required for domestic flights and entering secure federal facilities starting May 7, 2025. You can begin your application online before visiting the DMV.
Complete a Vehicle Safety Inspection: Before driving in Virginia, ensure your vehicle passes an annual safety inspection and displays a valid sticker. Inspections can be done at most repair shops, and driving without a sticker can result in fines.
Title Your Vehicle: Title your vehicle in Virginia within 30 days of moving. This is a required step before you can register your vehicle and obtain license plates.
Pass an Emissions Inspection: If you’re registering your vehicle in certain Virginia localities, it must pass an emissions inspection unless it has a valid emissions certificate from the last 12 months. Check if your area requires this and locate an inspection station if needed.
Secure Vehicle Insurance: Maintain the required liability insurance from the moment you register your vehicle. Failing to do so can result in fines, license and registration suspension, and higher insurance premiums.
Register and Get Plates: After titling and insuring your vehicle, register it at the DMV within 30 days. Your registration fee will depend on the type of license plate, registration period, and whether your vehicle is subject to a highway use fee. Discounts are available for two- and three-year registrations.

Renewing your vehicle registration

Options for renewal

Online services

Virginia residents can renew their registration through the DMV Online Services, offering a streamlined and efficient process. Renewals can be completed from any location with internet access, making it a convenient option for busy individuals who prefer to avoid waiting in line. To renew online, users must have their current odometer reading, the last four digits of their VIN, and their license plate number handy.

DMV select program and local DMV centers

For those who prefer in-person interactions, numerous DMV Select locations and customer service centers offer vehicle registration renewal services. These locations provide the added benefit of face-to-face assistance, which can be valuable for individuals with specific questions or needs. Some DMV centers also feature drive-through services for added convenience. Scheduling an appointment ahead of time at larger offices is recommended to reduce wait times.

Renewal fees

Understanding the cost of renewal is essential for effective budgeting. Renewal fees in Virginia vary based on vehicle weight and type. Passenger vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, and other vehicles each have specific rates. For example, heavier vehicles typically incur higher fees due to increased wear and tear on roadways. The DMV provides detailed information on these fees, ensuring that vehicle owners can anticipate and prepare for the costs associated with maintaining their registration.

Legal considerations

Tinted or covered plates: Legality

Virginia strictly prohibits tinted or covered license plates to ensure full visibility and accurate identification of vehicles on the road. According to Virginia Code § 46.2-716, any device or material that alters or obscures the license plate’s alpha-numeric characters, color, state name, or registration decals is illegal. This includes colored glass, plastic, brackets, holders, mounts, frames, or any other coverings.

Penalties for non-compliance

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and other legal consequences. Drivers caught with tinted or covered license plates might be pulled over by law enforcement officials and issued a summons. The court might dismiss the summons if proof of compliance is presented before the hearing date, demonstrating that the driver has removed or corrected the illegal covering. However, repeat offenders could face increased fines and potential court actions.

For example, installing a tinted cover over a license plate to avoid toll charges or evade traffic cameras not only violates the law but also compromises road safety by hindering law enforcement’s ability to read the plate. This can result in a citation with starting fines of $96 per offense, escalating with repeated violations. Any fraudulent alteration of a license plate is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries severe penalties including potential jail time.

Virginia license plate lookups may provide essential insights for vehicle owners, buyers, and industry professionals, helping you research before decisions are made about vehicle purchases and maintenance. Whether verifying a vehicle’s history, confirming specifications, or understanding the number of previous owners and purchase history, these lookups can offer an invaluable service that promotes transparency and safety for all parties involved.