How to Find Out Who Owns a Car by its Number Plate in the UK
There are times when you may need to know who a vehicle belongs to, for example after a road traffic accident, when buying a used car, or if a vehicle has been abandoned. In the UK, it is possible to find certain information using a car’s registration number, but strict data protection laws apply.
In this guide, Sandicliffe explains what you can and can’t find out from a number plate, when it’s legal, and the official routes available in the UK.
Is It Legal to Find Out Who Owns a Number Plate in the UK?
Yes, but only in specific circumstances.
Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018, personal details of a vehicle’s registered keeper are protected. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will only release this information if you can show reasonable cause.
Valid reasons include:
Involvement in a road traffic accident
Tracing the owner of an abandoned vehicle
Legal disputes involving a vehicle
Insurance or parking enforcement matters
You cannot access keeper details out of curiosity or for marketing purposes.
What Information Can You Get from a Number Plate for Free?
Using the DVLA’s free vehicle enquiry service, anyone can check basic vehicle details, including:
Make and model
Colour
Engine size and fuel type
MOT status and expiry date
Vehicle tax status
⚠️ This service does not show the owner’s name or address.
How to Find Out Who Owns a Car in the UK
To identify the registered keeper, you must apply directly to the DVLA and demonstrate reasonable cause.
Requesting Keeper Details from the DVLA
To make a request:
Complete DVLA Form V888
Clearly explain your reason for requesting the information
Provide supporting evidence if required (e.g. accident details)
Pay the DVLA fee (currently £2.50)
Submit the application by post or through approved organisations
If approved, the DVLA will send the registered keeper’s details to you by post.
What Information Will the DVLA Provide?
If your request is successful, the DVLA may supply:
Name of the registered keeper
Address at the time of the request
The DVLA does not confirm the legal owner of the vehicle, only the registered keeper.
When Will the DVLA Refuse a Request?
Your application will be rejected if:
You cannot demonstrate reasonable cause
The request is for personal interest or marketing
The information could be misused
This system ensures vehicle keeper data is protected and used responsibly.
Alternatives If You Can’t Access Keeper Details
If your request is declined, you may still be able to:
Contact your insurance provider
Report the vehicle to your local council (for abandoned vehicles)
Contact the police if the vehicle is causing an obstruction
Use a vehicle history check when buying a used car
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find out who owns a number plate in the UK?
Only if you can prove reasonable cause. The DVLA will not release keeper details without a valid reason.
Is there a free way to check who owns a car?
No. You can check vehicle details for free, but keeper information requires a formal DVLA request.
Can I check a number plate online?
Yes. The DVLA offers free online vehicle and MOT checks, but owner details are never shown online.
What’s the difference between an owner and a registered keeper?
The registered keeper is responsible for taxing and registering the vehicle. They may not be the legal owner.
Can a dealer like Sandicliffe access this information?
No. Even authorised dealers must follow DVLA and data protection rules.