A car's registration number is more than just an identifier – it's a key that unlocks a wealth of information about the vehicle's history and status.
Free Information Available
DVLA Vehicle Enquiry Service
The government provides basic vehicle information for free:
- Make and model
- Year of manufacture
- Engine size and fuel type
- Colour
- CO2 emissions
- Tax status and due date
- MOT status and expiry date
- SORN status
- Date of first registration
MOT History
Also free from GOV.UK:
- All MOT test results
- Mileage at each test
- Advisory notices
- Failure reasons
Paid Vehicle Check Information
A comprehensive vehicle history check reveals much more:
Finance Status
Whether there's outstanding finance on the car and which company holds it.
Stolen Vehicle Check
If the car has been reported stolen to police.
Insurance Write-Off Status
Whether it's ever been written off and the category (A, B, S, or N).
Mileage Verification
Cross-references mileage from multiple sources to detect clocking.
Plate Changes
History of registration plate changes, which can sometimes hide a car's true identity.
Number of Keepers
How many previous registered keepers the car has had.
Import/Export Status
Whether the car was imported or has been exported.
Salvage Auction History
If the car has been through salvage auctions (exclusive to some providers like Green Flag).
What You CANNOT Find From a Registration
Some information isn't available even with paid checks:
- Registered keeper name/address – Not released for privacy
- Accident history – Unless insurance claimed/written off
- Full service history – Need physical records
- Private sale history – Price paid in private sales
- Mechanical condition – Only revealed by inspection
Using Registration Checks When Buying
Step 1: Free Checks First
Before viewing, use free DVLA and MOT checks to:
- Verify basic details match the advert
- Check MOT status is valid
- Review mileage history for anomalies
Step 2: Full Vehicle Check
Before committing money, run a paid check to reveal:
- Finance, stolen, and write-off status
- Complete mileage verification
- Salvage auction history
Step 3: Physical Verification
When viewing, verify:
- Registration matches plates and V5C
- VIN matches V5C
- Details match your checks
The Value of a Number Plate Check
For less than £10, a vehicle history check can reveal problems that would cost you thousands. It's one of the best investments you can make when buying a used car.
Run a registration check now – results in seconds.
