Find vehicle owner information in Kerala by using the number plate

Have you ever been in a situation where you saw a vehicle and wondered who the owner is? Whether it’s a car involved in a minor mishap, a suspicious vehicle parked in your neighborhood, or just a curiosity piqued by a fancy ride, knowing how to find vehicle owner information can be incredibly useful. In Kerala, accessing this information legally and ethically through the vehicle's number plate is quite straightforward. How? Let’s find out.

Why would you need to find vehicle owner information?

Before we jump into the steps, let’s quickly discuss why you might need to access vehicle owner details:

• In case of an accident – If a vehicle has caused an accident and left the scene, you can trace its owner by the number plate.

• To check the history of a vehicle – When purchasing a used vehicle, knowing the previous owners and registration details is important.

• Parking violations – If a vehicle is parked illegally in your locality, you can report it with accurate details.

• Suspected crimes – Sometimes a suspicious vehicle in your neighborhood could raise concerns, and identifying the owner is a step toward reporting it.

Now that you know why this information can be helpful, let's explore how to find it in Kerala!

How to find vehicle owner information in Kerala?

Using the Parivahan website

The most common and official way to check vehicle registration details in India, including Kerala, is through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' Parivahan portal.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it:

• Step 1: Visit the Parivahan website.

• Step 2: Click on the ‘Know your vehicle details’ option under the ‘online services’ section.

• Step 3: Enter the vehicle number in the specified format (for example, KL-05-AB-1234).

• Step 4: Complete the captcha for verification.

• Step 5: Click on the ‘search vehicle’ button, and you’ll be shown key details about the vehicle, including the owner's name, registration date, and fitness certificate expiry.

This method is quick and secure. However, the information is limited to vehicle details and does not show sensitive personal information like addresses or phone numbers, ensuring privacy.

Using Kerala’s state transport department portal

Kerala also has its own dedicated website for vehicle-related services, operated by the Kerala Motor Vehicles Department.

Here’s how you can use it:

• Step 1: Visit the Kerala Motor Vehicles Department website.

• Step 2: Navigate to the ‘citizen services’ section and click on ‘vehicle details’.

• Step 3: Enter the vehicle registration number and submit it.

• Step 4: After completing the captcha, you will get details about the vehicle, including the owner’s name, the make and model of the vehicle, and its registration status.

This option is state-specific and can be particularly useful if you are dealing with a vehicle registered in Kerala. However, like Parivahan, it only provides general information, safeguarding the vehicle owner’s privacy.

VAHAN app: Information at your fingertips

Another handy tool is the VAHAN app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. It’s user-friendly and allows you to check vehicle registration details on the go.

Here’s how to use the app:

• Step 1: Download the VAHAN app from your smartphone’s app store.

• Step 2: Open the app and enter the vehicle number.

• Step 3: You will instantly get access to the vehicle’s registration details, just like the Parivahan website.

The VAHAN app is especially useful for people who frequently need to verify vehicle details—like transport officers, security personnel, or used car buyers—because it allows quick access right from your phone.

RTI Act: A formal route to request information

If the above methods don’t provide the information you need, you can file a Right to Information (RTI) request. The RTI act allows citizens to request information from any public authority, including the Kerala transport department.

To file an RTI application:

• Step 1: Write a formal request, specifying the details you need and the reason for your request.

• Step 2: Submit your application to the Kerala transport department either online or in person.

• Step 3: Pay the requisite fees for processing the application.

While this process takes longer (usually up to 30 days), it is a more formal and comprehensive route to obtain vehicle owner details.

What information can you get?

By following the steps mentioned above, you can access the following information about a vehicle:

• Owner's name: Essential for identifying the person who legally owns the vehicle.

• Registration number: Confirming the legitimacy of the vehicle’s registration.

• Vehicle make and model: Useful when checking the accuracy of vehicle listings when buying used cars.

• Registration date: Knowing when the vehicle was first registered.

• Insurance details: Ensures that the vehicle is insured, important for road safety and legality. You can also buy car insurance online to stay compliant with the law and avoid penalties.

• Pollution and fitness certificates: Verifies whether the vehicle meets the necessary emission and safety standards.

Important notes on privacy and ethics

While it's convenient to access vehicle owner details, it’s crucial to respect privacy and use this information responsibly. Misusing vehicle registration information can lead to legal consequences. Always ensure that your reasons for seeking this information are valid, such as for safety concerns, legal issues, or vehicle verification.

Conclusion

Finding vehicle owner information in Kerala through a number plate is easier than you might think, thanks to online platforms like Parivahan and Kerala's state transport department website. Whether you’re dealing with a hit-and-run situation, verifying a second-hand car purchase, or simply satisfying a curiosity, the available methods are efficient and reliable. Remember to use this information responsibly and within legal limits.