Choosing a car is just the beginning, especially if it's a used or preowned vehicle. Given the high incidence of car thefts in Connecticut—where there were 261.09 cases per 100,000 residents in 2023, it's crucial to take additional precautions to avoid falling victim to fraud involving stolen cars.
One effective strategy to ensure a smooth sailing car purchase is to conduct a license plate check to obtain a complete historical information about the vehicle before making a purchase. By using our free online license plate check service, you can safeguard yourself against dishonest sellers and ensure that you select only the best quality used cars.
Where to Find My Connecticut License Plate Number
The quickest way to find your Connecticut plate number is to check the license plate attached at both the front and at the back of your car. In cases where you the car is not with you, simply check the plate number in the certificate of title issued by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
How to Get a License Plate in Connecticut
Connecticut residents must immediately process their vehicle registration at the DMV. You only have 60 days to register your vehicle after moving to the state. Take note that registration stickers are not required in the state since August 1st, 2010. However, two license plates are a must.
To register your vehicle, you need to make an online appointment with the DMV and bring all the required documents. All the relevant information is available at the DMV's website.
Types of Connecticut License Plates
There are a few types of license plates you can apply for.
Standard: These plates have a light-blue-to-white gradient and a silhouette of the state in the top left corner. You can have up to 7 characters customized in dark blue for a small sum. Personalized vanity plates are also available, though you must obtain approval from the DMV beforehand. These vanity plates may cost more than $70.
Classic: For vehicles at least 20 years old, you can apply for a classic license plate. It comes with a simple white background, navy lettering, and a silhouette of the state in the top left corner. A randomized plate will cost $47 for a two-year duration, while a custom vanity plate can go for upwards of $90 or more.
Special: Special interest plates come in various designs, with over 50 entries to choose from. They range from animals to cities and towns in the state and even organization-specific plates.
Why Should I Get the License Plate Report?
In an era where information is readily available at your fingertips, there's no such thing as being too cautious with your data. Your license plate number is publicly visible, making it susceptible to identity theft and scams. Some sellers may mislead buyers about the condition of their vehicles, claiming they are fully operational when in fact, they are not.
Obtaining a license plate report is a proactive step to protect yourself from these issues. Fortunately, the process to get this report has become much more efficient. You simply need to enter the basic details of the license plate, hit enter, and receive the information within seconds—no more long waits! Best part? It's absolutely free.
What Information is in the License Plate Report?
Our Connecticut license plate lookup service provides comprehensive details beyond just the model, make, and color of the car. Here’s what else you can expect:
Salvage and Junk Title Report: This report reveals if the vehicle has a salvage title, indicating it was significantly damaged and declared a total loss by an insurance company. This might include damage from collisions, fires, or floods. A junk title, on the other hand, means the vehicle is unfit for road use due to extensive damage and cannot be rebuilt. This information is crucial for understanding potential future costs if you decide to proceed with the purchase.
Vehicle's Owner History: Thanks to systematic recording of license plate numbers, you can easily trace the vehicle's ownership history. This includes how many times the vehicle has changed hands, helping you understand its background.
Detailed Usage and Service History: The report includes the vehicle’s current condition and its mileage, with the most recent odometer reading available. This helps you detect possible odometer fraud.
Accident Reports: In Connecticut, all vehicle accidents must be reported to the police. This data is then made public, which can be useful when assessing the vehicle's condition. However, be aware that some minor accidents might not be reported.
Current Market Price: Understanding the vehicle’s market price is crucial. Our license plate lookup not only provides historical details but also verifies the current market value, helping you ascertain if the price is fair and guarding against overpricing by sellers.
Lien Records: A lien indicates that the vehicle was purchased with financing, and any outstanding debt must be cleared by the new owner if the vehicle is sold with a lien. Knowing about any liens beforehand can save you from unexpected debts and complications.
By using our license plate lookup, you can avoid potential pitfalls and make an informed decision when purchasing a used vehicle.
Where Does the Data Come From?
Our reports come from multiple reliable sources. Most of these sources are coming from governmental entities; namely the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS). We also check car auction inventories from time to time to track a vehicle’s condition.
Is a Reverse License Plate Search Legal?
Before you get into a panic, relax! We strictly comply with the Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA). We do not disclose any personal information of the vehicle's current or previous owners. Our license plate lookup only does a reverse lookup to obtain the VIN number and query the vehicle's history reports.
But if you're still skeptical, bear in mind that the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) gives anyone the permission to access information collected by the government. So rest assured that we are in compliance to the law. Our service is totally legal and free!
Car Fraud Prevention
While car shops and VIN checks offer valuable insights, relying on these alone will not be enough to fully protect you. It's crucial to make well-informed decisions, understand your legal rights, and actively use them when necessary. Enhancing your knowledge through additional research can significantly improve your defenses.
If you discover that a vehicle has been recalled, promptly contact the dealership. Should you suspect that your car has been stolen, immediately report the incident to the authorities.
The most effective strategy to prevent car fraud is to employ a license plate lookup service. This tool can reveal any potential issues with the car or its title. VinFreeCheck provides a solid platform to help safeguard you from becoming a victim of car fraud.