How to Perform a License Plate Check
You can check your vehicle’s history by entering the license plate into our database tool. The license plate, also called the number plate, is typically located at the front and rear of the vehicle. It consists of a series of letters and numbers. To get the best results, enter the license plate without spaces or dashes.
For example: FTY675
Our tool also works with personalized plates, which feature custom text instead of random characters.
Get the free Car Care APP by Carfax to convert Licence plate number to VIN number
Use the Car Care app by CARFAX, which is available for free on the Android Play Store and Apple Store. Here’s how to use it:
- Download the CARFAX app for free from either the Google Play Store if you have an Android device or and the Apple App Store on your iPhone. Here are the links to the apps : MyCarfax APP on Google Play Store & Car Care on Apple App Store
- Sign up for free and enter your license plate number and province.
- The app will display basic service records and the VIN number.
- Use the VIN number from the app to check detailed vehicle history reports.
This app provides an easy and quick way to get important car details including the VIN number.
Now enter the VIN that you retrieved from the APP below:
Note- VIN numbers do NOT contain the letters: Q, I, O
License Plate Check vs VIN Check
Both checks provide the same official data. You can choose between a license plate check or a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check, but many people find the license plate easier to locate on their vehicle.
Why Perform a License Plate Check?
When purchasing a used car, especially in Canada, a license plate check provides key details to ensure you’re making a wise investment. Here’s why it’s important:
- Ownership Verification
The check confirms the registered owner, ensuring the seller has the legal right to sell. This is essential in private sales to verify the car isn’t stolen. - Complete Vehicle History
A comprehensive vehicle history report includes:
- Previous owners
- Accident and damage history
- Service records
- Airbag deployment, and more
- Outstanding Liens
You can discover any outstanding financial obligations. Without this check, you could buy a vehicle that gets repossessed if the previous owner hasn’t cleared debts. - Peace of Mind
A detailed report ensures you’re informed about the car’s condition and can negotiate a fair price. Checking both the license plate and VIN offers added security.
Common License Plate Features in Canada
- Provinces and Territories
License plates vary across Canada’s 10 provinces and 3 territories, often featuring regional imagery:
- Ontario: Trillium flower
- Quebec: “Je me souviens”
- British Columbia: Mountains
- Northwest Territories: Northern lights
- Alberta: Red lettering on white
Only Ontario, British Columbia, and Manitoba require front and back plates. Other regions only need one on the back.
- Serial Numbers
Each plate is uniquely identified by a combination of numbers and letters. - Stickers and Registration
Plates feature stickers indicating their registration status and expiration date. - Custom Plates
Personalized plates are available, often featuring a unique combination of letters and numbers chosen by the owner. - Specialty Plates
Some provinces offer specialty plates that support causes like charities or wildlife conservation.
Beware of License Plate Swaps
In Canada and the U.S., criminals sometimes swap license plates to hide a vehicle’s history. To avoid this, make sure the make, model, and color in the report match the actual car. If there’s a mismatch, conduct a VIN check to verify the chassis details.
License Plate Check FAQ
- Can I check a vehicle’s history using only the license plate?
Yes, you can access the same information as a VIN check. - What kind of information will I get?
You’ll get data on previous owners, damage, liens, service history, and more. - Is a license plate check less reliable than a VIN check?
Because plates can be swapped, double-check the car’s physical details with the report. If details don’t match, consider running a VIN check. - Can personalized plates be checked?
Yes, personalized plates are treated the same as regular plates in our database. - Is the cost of a license plate check the same as a VIN check?
Yes, both methods provide the same report for the same fee.
