Missouri License Plate Lookup

Vehicle registrations, titling, and license plate applications in Missouri are managed by the Missouri Department of Revenue through its Motor Vehicle and Driver Licensing Division (MyDMV). In 2021, two individuals were charged with selling multiple vehicles with altered odometer readings in Missouri. Odometer fraud is a serious crime, and while this case was resolved, there may still be other instances of fraud that have not yet been uncovered. To protect yourself from such fraudulent activities, you can use VinFreeCheck’s free license plate lookup service.

Worth Noting ✍

Missouri hosts several car-related events and shows annually. One of the most notable is the “Saint Louis Auto Show,” the largest automotive event in the region. It features hundreds of new cars, trucks, and SUVs, along with concept cars and specialty vehicles. It’s a must-visit for car enthusiasts looking to see the latest in automotive innovation and design.

Where Do I Find My Missouri Plate Number?

Like most states, you’ll find your vehicle’s license plate on the front and rear of a vehicle. Alternatively, you can get this information from your vehicle registration receipt, or other sources such as the car’s insurance documentation.

How to Apply for Missouri License Plates

If you’re a Missourian, you have 30 days from the date of purchasing a vehicle to complete the registration process and also pay the relevant fees. If you fail to do so, you need to pay a $25 penalty on the 31st day. This penalty increases by $25 every 30 days that you’re late, with the maximum penalty being $200.

You’ll also need to submit the following items to the nearest Department of Revenue office:

• A completed application form
• Vehicle certificate of title
• Proof of vehicle ownership
• An odometer disclosure statement
• A notarized lien release form, if applicable
• A safety inspection
• Proof of identification
• Payment of all relevant fees (including a state sales tax of 4.225 percent and the local sales tax; use their sales tax calculator)
• Additional documentation where needed

New residents also have 30 days to title their vehicle after becoming a state resident. New residents may also need to furnish additional documentation if they own an out-of-state vehicle prior to moving (among other things).

For renewals, you have the option of renewing plates by phone (call the hotline at 573-751-1957); via online services; by mail; or at any nearby license office. Renewals for out-of-state residents are also available.

While waiting for your license plates, you can apply for a temporary permit to use in the meantime. 30-day and 60-day permits are available, the latter only from qualified dealers for “specific sale conditions.” You’ll also need to bring along some documentation, including a safety inspection report, and pay a $5 permit fee and $6 processing fee.

Additional details are available on their helpful website.

What License Plates are Available?

Missouri license plates also include color-coded year tabs with the expiration year of the registration. Plates follow the format “AA1A1A,” where A represents any alphabet and 1 represents any number from 0 to 9. For plates that use all-number combinations, there must be one letter character.

Standard plates: These plates use the Bicentennial design introduced in 2019 to celebrate 200 years of statehood in 2021.

Personalized plates: Personalized plates can be used on standard plates and certain specialty plates. Reservations for personalized plates can be made online. There are specific stipulations to a personalized plate, such as the character length with or without an emblem/logo, as well as regulations against the use of vulgar language or profanities.

Veteran plates: These are issued to former serving, or active duty, members of any US military outfit. Plates are also available for service in any previous conflicts (i.e., the Korean War) as well as medal recipients (i.e., Purple Heart).

Disabled plates: Persons with disabilities, or “the custodial parent or guardian of a permanently disabled minor,” may apply for disabled plates. Disabled veterans are eligible to receive one free set of Disabled Veteran plates.

Special plates: This refers to unique plates for organizations, charitable groups, and so forth. These organizations or groups may have a unique style or design of plates, and the criteria for this style may vary from state to state.

Special plates that are available include:

• Amateur radio operator plates
• Custom/historic plates
• Collegiate plates
• Conservation Heritage plates
• Organ Donor plates
• Patriotic themed plates

Some of these plates may have additional fees and/or contribution fees that you need to pay. Contribution fees have a minimum payment, but you can increase it if you so desire.