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How to Check Vehicle Owner Details Online by Number Plate
Step-by-step guide to find vehicle owner details legally using VAHAN and mParivahan.
A vehicle number plate in India is more than just a registration mark. It is linked to important records about the vehicle, such as registration, insurance, and compliance status. Many situations call for accessing this information—verifying a used car before purchase, reporting a hit-and-run, or simply checking whether a vehicle has valid papers.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has made this process simple through online systems. At the same time, privacy safeguards ensure that sensitive data like the owner’s home address or contact number remains secure. Only essential details are shared with the public through authorised platforms.
How to Find Vehicle Information Online
There are three main ways to look up vehicle details legally in India.
1. VAHAN Portal
The VAHAN portal is the central database of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. It covers vehicle records from most state RTOs.
Steps to check details on VAHAN:
Visit the official VAHAN website.
Select “Know Your Vehicle Details.”
Enter the complete registration number, including the state and series code.
Fill in the captcha and click search.
The system will display:
Vehicle type and class
Date of registration and validity
Fuel type
Insurance expiry date
PUC status
Chassis and engine number (partially hidden for safety)
This portal is accurate, reliable, and directly updated by RTOs.
2. mParivahan Mobile App
For quick access from a smartphone, the mParivahan app is a useful option.
Process:
Download the app from the Play Store or App Store.
Enter the vehicle registration number in the search bar.
View details such as registration validity, fitness certificate, insurance status, and PUC record.
Since it is mobile-based, this method is convenient for people who need information while on the go.
3. State RTO Websites
Many state transport departments also provide online search tools. These can be helpful for locally registered vehicles.
Steps:
Visit the official RTO website of your state.
Find the “Vehicle Registration Search” option.
Enter the vehicle number and the captcha.
View the details available, such as registration date, validity, and insurance information.
Not all state RTO websites offer this service, but where available, it is a reliable source.
Also read→
How to Get Vehicle NOC from RTO: Complete Step Guide
Information You Can Access
Through these platforms, the following details can usually be obtained:
Registration number and date of registration
Vehicle class and type (car, bike, truck, etc.)
Fuel type
Insurance validity
Fitness certificate status
PUC status
Chassis and engine number (masked for security)
In some cases, the owner’s name may appear, but personal details like contact number and address are not shared.
Legal Rules for Accessing Vehicle Data
Accessing information through VAHAN, mParivahan, or state RTO websites is fully legal. These systems are designed for transparency and road safety.
Allowed uses include:
Checking the vehicle's status before buying it.
Verifying details after a road accident.
Reporting vehicles in case of disputes or violations.
Not allowed:
Using private websites that claim to reveal personal data.
Sharing or selling registration data.
Using details for fraud or harassment.
The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, protect vehicle owners against the misuse of their information.
Also read→
How to Use mParivahan App for Vehicle Details Online
Other Ways to Get Vehicle Owner Details
If online search does not provide enough information, these options can be used:
Regional Transport Office (RTO): A written application can be submitted citing valid reasons, such as accident cases or court matters.
Police Department: Authorities can retrieve the complete details if the matter involves law enforcement.
Insurance Companies: In the event of an accident, insurers may help identify the policyholder linked to a particular vehicle.
Conclusion
Checking vehicle owner details online through a number plate has become simple and secure in India. The VAHAN portal, mParivahan app, and state RTO websites provide verified information related to registration, insurance, and compliance. These official platforms make the process convenient while protecting sensitive personal data.
When detailed information is required beyond what is available online, the best approach is to contact the RTO or law enforcement agencies. Avoid unauthorised websites and always follow the legal route for safe and ethical use of vehicle data.
