Wisconsin License Plate Lookup

A Wisconsin license plate lookup is optimal for buyers and vehicle owners looking to perform due diligence concerning a vehicle's history. The search ensures the vehicle is up to code on title records and specifications. This information is sourced from GoodCar, which provides reliable vehicle records. It is also an approved NMVTIS data provider. Wisconsin plate searches can also determine if the vehicle has had fire or flood damage, salvage classification, or a reconstructed title. This will educate the relevant parties on potential problems, considering the Wisconsin jurisdiction. It may reduce legal liability. There is a lower chance of falling prey to fraud due to unscrupulous sellers if one checks the vehicle's history.

Aside from the typical need for vehicle identification, license plate searches illustrate information on all of the car's records. From a due diligence perspective, a Wisconsin plate search will reveal more concerning the vehicle's specifications. Depending on trim, that includes engine type, transmission, generic equipment, and entertainment features. Under problem checks, requesters may find information concerning defects, accidents, fire, or flood damage. 

This is particularly relevant for Wisconsin as the state has been experiencing increased flooding in recent years. It has been caused by a combination of climate change and natural variations. In turn, this has increased the potential for flood damage to vehicles. Wisconsin is ranked 26th in car accidents in the United States, which is relatively average. However, rear-end collisions are the most common type reported, so buyers should check purchases for these damages.

Unfortunately, the state is ranked 2nd in year-over-year changes in motor vehicle thefts. That is a 41.5% increase since 2020, so car purchasing should be significantly monitored. State law mandates that if an individual knowingly buys or receives stolen items valued at over $2,500, they will be charged with a class I felony. The penalty is a six-month to three-year prison sentence, a fine of $10,000, or both.

Wisconsin Plate Search provides vehicle owners with a comprehensive report covering vehicular specifications, accidents and major problems, title records, pricing, recalls, and more. The problem checks category covers several elements, including crashes, fire, hail and flood damage, accidents, or if the vehicle was rebuilt. The goal is to show damage-related issues concerning the vehicle and if the proper documentation has been issued. Title records provide information on the vehicle's mileage, odometer readings, and other titling issues. It is excellent at demonstrating is there have been questionable activities in the vehicle's past. Automobile specifications and pricing demonstrate engine types, transmission, interior, exterior, and retail costs at the market. This information is obtained from private and government databases like the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

Wisconsin's history with license plates goes back to 1905 when the first federally issued plates were given. In the 1910s, the license plates were straightforward and clear-cut. That is black, grey and dull yellow. The plates had to be re-issued yearly to update registration, as the years were part of the text. The state continued using the vehicle class letter code to the license until 1931. Afterward, they began to place the full name of the state on the license plate. 1979, though, was the last time plates were re-issued yearly. This was so the license plates would be up to date, and any formats would be displayed correctly. The most recent changes were done in 2017 when the ID numbers of the plates started to have a fourth number added. Currently, Wisconsin license plates are grouped into three standard, special interest license, and special license plates.

WI License Plate Renewal

The Division of Motor Vehicles usually sends plate renewal notices a month before the present license plate expiration date. It is possible to use the license plate search to check when the plate is about to expire or to see if an emissions test is required, which is the case with Wisconsin. License plate renewal may be done in person, via mail, or online. The Department of Motor Vehicles has authorized agencies and businesses to act as agents. For online renewal, the new license sticker and Certificate of Vehicle Registration will be mailed in 7 to 10 business days. Renewals cost $85 as well. This would be paid via credit card, ACH, or PayPal.

WI License Plate Replacement

License plates must be replaced when one or both have been damaged, faded, or lost. The government also mandates a replacement of the plates should they be illegible. The replacement can be done in person via the Wisconsin Department of Transportation or online. To replace the license plate online, applicants must have their Driver's License, the last four digits of their social security number, and their date of birth. For standard dual plate type vehicles, it costs $8, but single plates are $4.

1. Is it Legal To Lookup Someone's License Plate Numbers in Wisconsin?

   In Wisconsin, it is legal to search an individual's license plate number, though the results will be a vehicle's history, including title records, problem checks, and automobile specifications.

2. Can I Lookup WI License Plates for Free?

   Record seekers may access a free search to match plates on GoodCar. However, if they would like a comprehensive report of the vehicle's specifications, they have to pay for access. GoodCar offers purchase options for users for as low as $2.95.

3. Can I use Wisconsin license plate lookup services to find out about a vehicle's accident history?

   It is possible to use Wisconsin license plate lookup to get a sense of the vehicle's past accident history. It should illustrate if the vehicle were involved in an accident or collision previously. If the vehicle were involved in an accident, though, it would require appropriate documentation to demonstrate that the right process was adhered to during the changeover. It can also help current owners know if the vehicle has a potential for certain issues.

4. Will the license plate lookup reflect the new owner's details if a vehicle has recently been sold in Wisconsin?

   GoodCar's plate lookup will provide information on the latest car associated with the license plate number searched.

5. Do all Wisconsin license plate lookups work for custom or personalized plates?

   Wisconsin license plate lookups facilitate similar services for customized plates. A customized plate is still linked to the VIN of the same vehicle. That provides access to the vehicle's records, including maintenance checks, accident history and automobile specifications.