Indiana License Plate Lookup - Free Search (2024)

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How To Lookup Indiana License Plates

Why Run a License Plate Search in Indiana?

Indiana license plate lookups are commonly conducted to check the history of a used vehicle before buying. They are also a preferred method over VIN searches as they require fewer characters and are easier to obtain than VINs, which can sometimes be difficult to read.

Shady car sellers often misrepresent a vehicle’s specifications to facilitate a sale. A GoodCar license plate search can help you confirm these details (as advertised) by providing pertinent information like the car’s accident history, recalls, mechanical issues, damage history, and last reported mileage/odometer reading. This is valuable information that can make the difference between a good purchase and ending up with a problematic vehicle. Insurers also use license plate searches to confirm that vehicles have not been involved in fraudulent activities by comparing available information (on the car) with law enforcement data.

What Can You Get Out of a Indiana License Plate Lookup?

Why Choose GoodCar for Indiana Plate Lookups?

Indiana License Plates

Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Indiana residents must register all newly purchased or acquired vehicles within 45 days, while new residents in the state have 60 days to register their vehicles. You can initiate this registration process via the following methods:

• Online via the bureau’s myBMV platform (you cannot use this option if the vehicle’s date of sale is more than 60 days or it is a leased vehicle)
• In-person at any BMV branch or connect kiosk
• In-person through a BMV-authorized full or partial service provider
• You will need certain documents to complete the registration. These include:
• A completed and signed vehicle title or notification
• A bill of sale/purchase order
• An Odometer Disclosure Statement (this is only required if the odometer statement is not completed on the vehicle’s certificate of title or certificate of origin)
• A Physical Inspection Form (this is required for out-of-state vehicles if you would not be bringing the vehicle to the branch or for vehicles with VIN plates that are not easily viewable/accessible).
• Proof of identity
• Proof of insurance
• An emissions test (this is only required by Lake and Porter counties)
• A Statement of Existing Lease Agreement, where applicable

You will be charged registration fees and taxes, which vary by vehicle type, the vehicle’s year and make, and your area of residence. Standard license plates are typically delivered by mail within 21 business days (after you successfully complete the registration process).

IN License Plate Renewal

The BMV typically issues vehicle registrants a renewal notice about a month before their registration expires. This notice usually contains instructions on required tests, documents for submission, applicable fees, and how to renew the plates. Renewal options typically depend on vehicle type and individual circ*mstances. For instance, license plate renewals for vehicles weighing less than 26,000 lbs that do not require tests or additional documentation can typically be done online or by calling (888) 692-6841. On the other hand, renewals for vehicles outside these categories have to be done in person or via mail.

Be aware that driving with expired license plates in Indiana is a Class C infraction, punishable by a fine of up to $500. The BMV also charges a $15 administrative penalty for license plate renewals initiated after the vehicle registration expires.

IN License Plate Replacement

Driving in Indiana without a valid or legible license plate is against the law; vehicle owners must replace damaged, illegible, or stolen license plates as soon as possible. License plate replacements must be initiated in person at a BMV branch, where you will be issued the same plate type but with a different plate number. Replacement plates cost $9.50.

If your plate was stolen, you can report the incident to law enforcement, get them to complete a Report of Stolen License Plate or Registration Decal Form, and submit this form when applying for your replacement plate. Keep in mind that it is not mandatory to report a plate as stolen, especially if you are unsure. However, if you do so, the old number cannot be re-issued for five years from the date it was flagged.

1. Can I Look Up IN License Plates for Free?

   GoodCar offers free license plate searches that return basic information; however, you will have to subscribe to access the full report. The platform offers a variety of options for different user preferences, and you can get a comprehensive vehicle history report through a license plate search for as little as $2.95.

2. Can I Use Indiana License Plate Lookup Services to Find out about a Vehicle's Accident History?

   Yes, you can use GoodCar’s license plate lookup service to determine a vehicle’s accident history and confirm if it was designated junk, reconstructed, or even previously used as a taxi or police car.

3. How Can I Register a Vanity License Plate in Indiana?

   You can request personalized Indiana license plates in person at any BMV office location or BMV Connect Kiosk. Requests for personalized plates can also be submitted online through the bureau’s myBMV portal; however, you must create a user account to utilize the online option. Personalized license plate requests are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and approved plates are mailed within approximately 30 days. Be aware that personalized plates may only be issued for passenger vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and trucks under 11,000 pounds.