West Virginia License Plate Lookup

According to the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) 2020 annual report, there were 34,056 crashes in 2019, resulting in 206 deaths and 906 serious injuries. Although the report doesn’t specify how many were due to vehicle defects, it’s wise to be vigilant about potential mechanical problems in your prospective vehicle. Do a quick license plate search with Vinfreecheck for any vehicle registered in West Virginia. Remember, this lookup tool is only applicable to vehicles that are titled and registered with the West Virginia DMV.

No Money, No Talk!

In West Virginia, it is illegal to drive on the highway if you’re not in possession of sufficient cash or a credit card. This law is designed to ensure that all drivers can pay for gasoline or any emergency services they might need while on the road. So if you’re low on cash, just stay at home!

Where is the Plate Number for West Virginian Vehicles?

West Virginia requires all cars to have plates attached to the back only. You can also find the license plate number on the top part of your DMV-issued registration card.

How Do I Apply for a West Virginia License Plate?

You can register your vehicle at any West Virginia DMV branch near you. If you’re buying from a local dealership, the dealership will complete the registration and titling on your behalf. You’ll just need to get copies of the relevant paperwork.

If, however, you purchase from an out-of-state dealer, the application must also include an invoice reflecting the purchase price.

New residents of West Virginia have 30 days to title and register their vehicles after establishing residency in the state. You’ll need to present the following documents:

• Out-of-state registration and title
• Proof that you are now a resident of West Virginia
• Certificate of Title for a Motor Vehicle application form
• Proof of the car’s insurance policy
• Payment of all required fees

Once your car is titled and registered, you’ll receive a license plate and registration card, where the latter must be kept together with the car’s insurance policy in the vehicle at all times.

Renewals may be done either at any DMV branch, by mail, or by using their online services.

If your plate is lost or stolen, you cannot reuse the same license plate number. You also need to lodge a report with the state police immediately.

West Virginia also mandates a vehicle inspection every 12 months. Any time an inspection is passed, a sticker must be displayed on the inside of the windshield until the next inspection. For new residents, you have have 10 days from the date of titling your vehicle to conduct a vehicle inspection.

What Kind of License Plates Can I Get?

Standard: The common standard license plate uses a white background (or an alternate Scenic plate) with navy blue characters. For all plates, an expiration sticker must be displayed to show the plate’s validity.

Standard plates have a maximum character limit of 6.

Personalized: These plates are restricted to Class A vehicles, defined as “passenger cars and trucks with a gross weight of 10,000 pounds or less.” Depending on the type of plate, character limits vary. For example, personalized standard plates have a character limit of 8. Personalized motorcycle plates, on the other hand, have a limit of 6.

Obscene or offensive requests are strictly prohibited. It must also not not conflict with a regular series license number. Symbols, punctuation marks, and numbers 1 to 2000 are also not allowed.

Disability: There are disability placards and plates available. You can apply for either if you have a qualifying disability or are providing transportation for someone with a qualifying disability.

Military veterans with a verified service-related disability may also apply for a disabled veteran plate.

Specialty: These are license plates that showcase or show support for various organizations, commemorative events, interests, military service and more.

You can find a list of available specialty plates on the state DMV website.