Check Vehicle’s Past with Maryland License Plate Lookup

Run a fast and reliable Maryland license plate lookup to uncover a vehicle’s background before you commit. Our service helps you access key history details, including accidents, title records, damage reports, auction activity, and warranty information.

10% OFF

Why do we need your phone number?

We'll send your vehicle report or sticker link via text for easy access.

Our support team may contact you if we find issues with your report or sticker.

Your data is never shared with third parties.

Get 10% off your purchases by providing your phone number.

What is a Maryland License Plate Lookup?

A Maryland license plate is issued by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) for registered vehicles such as passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles, trailers, and approved specialty vehicles. It acts as the official identifier tied to the vehicle’s registration and title records.

A Maryland license plate lookup allows buyers and sellers to research a vehicle’s history using the plate number, making it easier to assess risk before completing a used vehicle transaction.

By checking the license plate, you will get a vehicle history report that reveals details such as model year, make, engine specifications, title branding, accident records, lien status, mileage history, and other data that help reduce financial and legal uncertainty.

Why You Should Search a Maryland License Plate

Checking a Maryland license plate before a transaction helps verify important information that may not be obvious at first glance. Below are common situations where a lookup can make a real difference.

Before Purchasing a Used Vehicle

Buying a used car, especially from a private seller or smaller dealer, comes with risks if the vehicle’s past is unknown.

Verify Title and Registration History

A license plate lookup helps confirm prior ownership and whether the Maryland title is clean or branded as salvage or rebuilt.

Uncover Reported Issues

Accidents, damage records, or mileage inconsistencies may appear in the report, even when the vehicle looks well-maintained.

When You’re Selling a Vehicle

Sellers can also benefit from running a Maryland license plate lookup before listing a vehicle for sale.

Add Credibility to Your Listing

Providing verified vehicle history helps answer buyer questions and supports your listing with documented facts.

Build Buyer Confidence

Clear and consistent records reduce hesitation and help buyers feel more comfortable moving forward.

Reviewing Auction or Private Sale Vehicles

Vehicles sold through auctions or private-party sales may not always include full disclosures.

Compare Listings With Official Records

A plate lookup allows you to cross-check advertised details against recorded data to spot inconsistencies.

Spot Missing or Questionable Details

If important information is missing or does not align, it may be wise to pause and reassess the deal.

Avoiding Fraud

Running a Maryland license plate search helps reduce the chance of purchasing a vehicle with unresolved legal or mechanical issues.

Check for Legal Red Flags

A lookup may reveal stolen vehicle reports or title issues that could cause problems after purchase.

Reveal Damage Not Easily Seen

Damage from accidents, floods, or fires may not be visible during inspection, but reported records can indicate potential long-term concerns.

Information Included in Our Maryland License Plate Report

A Maryland license plate lookup report combines essential vehicle specifications with detailed historical records. Check the vehicle’s title, accident, and legal information. The report helps buyers and sellers gain a clearer understanding of a vehicle before committing to any transaction.

Vehicle Specifications

This shows you the vehicle details such as model year, make, engine type, transmission, drivetrain, fuel system, and manufacturing origin. Reviewing these specifications helps confirm whether the vehicle matches the seller’s description and aligns with driving needs, preferences, and overall budget considerations.

Ownership History

Ownership history outlines how the vehicle has changed hands over time within Maryland and other states. It shows registration periods and ownership duration, helping buyers identify frequent transfers or short ownership cycles, while personal owner identities remain protected under applicable privacy laws.

Title Status

This section confirms the vehicle’s title standing under Maryland records. It indicates whether the title is clean or branded as salvage, rebuilt, flood, or lemon, helping buyers avoid vehicles with legal restrictions that may complicate registration, resale, or insurance coverage later.

Theft Records

The theft records section checks whether the vehicle has ever been reported stolen through law enforcement databases. When available, it includes report dates and locations. Buying a stolen vehicle can result in seizure by authorities, even if the purchase was made unknowingly.

Accident Records

Accident records list reported collisions associated with the vehicle, including available dates and locations. Reviewing this information helps assess whether prior damage may impact safety, structural integrity, insurance costs, or long-term resale value, even if repairs were previously completed.

Mileage Verification

Mileage verification compares odometer readings recorded at different points in time. This section helps identify gaps, irregular increases, or inconsistencies that may suggest potential odometer rollback, protecting buyers from vehicles with misrepresented usage or inflated resale value.

Auction History and Photos

If the vehicle has been sold through an auction, this section provides auction dates, sale locations, pricing details, condition notes, and available photos. Auction images may reveal prior damage or wear not clearly disclosed in current listings.

Lien or Loan Information

Lien records identify active or previously recorded financial claims tied to the vehicle. Outstanding liens can delay or prevent ownership transfer through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, making it essential to confirm that all loans or legal claims are properly cleared.

Warranty Coverage

This section indicates whether factory or extended warranties are still in effect. It may include coverage duration, mileage limits, and manufacturer-backed protections, helping buyers understand whether remaining warranty benefits apply after purchase or transfer of ownership.

Damage Records

Damage records document reported incidents involving floods, fires, accidents, or other events. Reviewing this section helps determine whether the vehicle required major repairs and whether damage history could affect reliability, insurance eligibility, or resale value in the future.

Service and Maintenance Records

Service and maintenance history shows how the vehicle was cared for over time. When available, it includes service dates, locations, and types of work performed, helping buyers assess whether routine maintenance was followed or if important services were missed.

Recall Information

Recall information lists manufacturer-issued safety or mechanical recalls affecting the vehicle. It includes recall descriptions, issue details, and current status, such as open or resolved, helping owners address unresolved recalls that may impact safety or compliance.

How to Search the Maryland License Plate?

To search the license plate and get a vehicle history report in Maryland, you can follow these simple steps:

Find the License Plate Number

Find the license plate number on the front or back of the vehicle. If you cannot find it, ask the seller.

Fill Out the Form

Click on the form above, then write down the license plate number. After that, you can press the button to submit the form.

Get the Report

After the report has been generated, you can proceed to payment to get the full car report in Maryland.

Free Maryland License Plate Lookup

You can perform a free license plate lookup with our free license plate lookup tool. Here’s what you will get from our free lookup service.

Maryland Laws on License Plates

In Maryland, most vehicles must display two valid license plates, one on the front and one on the rear, unless the vehicle type is exempt, such as motorcycles, trailers, or certain historic vehicles. Plates must be securely fastened, horizontal, and clearly visible at all times. Registration stickers showing the current expiration must be affixed to the rear plate and remain unobstructed.

Security of Information

Maryland’s driver and vehicle data are protected under state law and the federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA). Personal information linked to a license plate, such as names, addresses, or contact details, is restricted and cannot be accessed through public lookup tools. Only authorised entities like law enforcement, courts, insurers, and legally permitted agencies can view private owner information for specific purposes.

Maryland License Plate Design and Format

Maryland’s current standard license plate is the “Maryland Proud” design, introduced in 2016 and inspired by the state flag’s colours and patterns, replacing earlier plates such as the War of 1812 series. Drivers may also choose alternatives like the blue Chesapeake Bay plate featuring a crab and bridge, agricultural plates, or other personalized and specialty designs.

Format and Serialization of the Maryland License Plate

Maryland passenger vehicles utilize the “Maryland Proud” design, which prominently features the state flag. These plates follow a 1AB2345 (digit-letter-letter-digit-digit-digit) serial format, replacing the older “War of 1812” series that used stacked vertical letters. While most older designs remain valid, current serialization typically excludes the letters I, O, Q, and U to ensure legibility.

License Plate Design in Maryland

Maryland is known for offering one of the widest selections of license plate designs in the United States. Through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, drivers can choose from hundreds of visually distinct plates that reflect local culture, causes, and personal interests.

Unmatched variety of designs: Maryland offers nearly a thousand unique license plate designs, including standard and specialty plates. The wide selection reflects local culture, causes, and personal interests.
Popular and high-demand plates: The Chesapeake Bay plate is among the most requested, featuring coastal imagery and an environmental message commonly seen on Maryland roads.
Specialty and themed designs: Plates support conservation, military recognition, agriculture, education, and charitable causes. Each design may include additional fees or eligibility requirements through the MVA.

License Plate Types in Maryland

Each plate type follows Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration guidelines for visibility and registration.

Standard Plates

This is the default plate issued to most vehicles. Introduced in 2016, it features colours inspired by the Maryland state flag, with the state name at the top and the official website at the bottom.

Specialty and Alternative Plates

If you choose to get the specialty plates insight, you may check and choose these types:

Chesapeake Bay Plates: Among the most popular options, these plates highlight Maryland’s coastal identity. Designs commonly include blue backgrounds, crabs, herons, and newer versions featuring the Chesapeake Bay Bridge with environmental messaging.
Agricultural Plates: These plates showcase Maryland’s farming heritage through scenic and rural-themed artwork.
Military Plates: Issued to eligible service members and veterans, these plates recognise specific branches, awards, or military status.
Personalized Plates: Drivers can request custom letter and number combinations to reflect schools, hobbies, local culture, or personal messages, subject to MVA approval.
Vintage Reproduction Plates: Maryland also offers reproduction plates, such as the 1910 historic design, for drivers interested in a classic appearance.

License Plate Cost in Maryland

License plate and registration fees in Maryland vary based on vehicle weight, type, and registration length. Costs are set by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration and may increase over time due to transportation and infrastructure funding requirements.

Standard Passenger Vehicle: Vehicles under 3,500 pounds typically cost about $120.50 per year, while those between 3,500 and 3,700 pounds are slightly higher. Heavier vehicles over 3,700 pounds can reach around $191.50 annually.
Other Vehicle Types: Motorcycles generally have a lower annual registration fee, usually around $105. Trucks, trailers, and commercial vehicles follow different fee schedules depending on declared weight and usage.
Personalized Plates and Purchase Fees: Personalised plates require an additional yearly fee, commonly $50, plus a tag replacement charge.

License Plate Lookup by States

Check any other license plate across different states with our license plate lookup service.

Alabama

FAQs About Maryland License Plate Lookup

Can I look up a Maryland license plate?

Yes, a Maryland license plate can be looked up, but personal owner details such as name and address are protected under the federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) and are only accessible for permitted uses like law enforcement, insurance, or legal matters.

Can you identify a person by their license plate number?

Yes, a license plate can be linked to an individual, but this information is not publicly available. Access is limited to law enforcement and other authorised parties under privacy laws such as the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA).

Can you look up an address with a license plate number?

No, private individuals cannot obtain a home address from a license plate number due to DPPA restrictions. Only authorised entities may access that data. In situations like hit-and-runs, the proper step is to report the plate to the police.

What information can a number plate check reveal?

A license plate search typically shows basic vehicle information such as make, model, and year. For authorised users, it may also reveal owner details, registration status, insurance, theft alerts, while history reports connect the plate to title, accident, and service records.

Should I be worried if someone took a picture of my license plate?

In most cases, there is no need to panic, since license plates are visible in public. Still, it’s smart to stay alert, note unusual behaviour, and trust your instincts if someone’s interest in your plate feels inappropriate or out of context.