It is possible to check who owns a car, but the amount and type of information available depends on the country and the method used. Here are the common ways to check car ownership:
- Check by Vehicle Registration Number (Number Plate):
- Online platforms like Park+ allow you to enter the vehicle registration number and get details such as the registered owner's name, state and RTO location, ownership history, registration date, vehicle age, fitness certificate validity, insurance status, etc. This is useful for verifying ownership when buying a used car or checking vehicle details digitally.
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) Owner Lookup:
- VIN lookup services provide detailed vehicle title and ownership history such as the number of owners and registration states. However, they do not usually reveal the current owner's personal information due to privacy laws except for government or authorized agencies like the police or courts. Some services offer free basic info, while paid reports provide more comprehensive details.
- Official Vehicle Records:
- In the UK, the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) holds the vehicle registration and ownership records. The registered keeper data is on the V5C logbook. Personal details are protected under data laws, so legal owners are those who paid for the vehicle, while the registered keeper is responsible for the car's legal roadworthiness. Requests for information can be made via official channels like the DVLA but with restrictions.
- Car Ownership History Reports:
- Services like CarVeto provide detailed reports including periods of ownership, number of keepers, registration info, mileage, theft, write-off, MOT history, etc. These reports help buyers understand a used car's history before purchase.
- Limitations:
- Personal details of the current vehicle owner like address or phone number are generally protected by privacy laws and cannot be accessed by the public or private services without proper authorization or a valid reason.
In summary, one can check vehicle ownership and related history through online vehicle check platforms, VIN lookup services, or official government databases, but sensitive personal ownership details are protected and not freely available to private individuals or the public.
