MVAA plate number: How to Verify a Vehicle’s Plate Number in Nigeria

“How do I verify a vehicle's plate number in Nigeria?” That’s the major question of someone that wants to verify if vehicle documents are authentic. 

Vehicle plate number verification is especially useful if you're purchasing a used car or if you suspect that your vehicle's documents may not be genuine. It helps you to establish the authenticity of your vehicle registration, legal ownership status, matching of your vehicle details (like make, model, and chassis number), e.t.c

The Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA) is responsible for motor vehicle documentation in Lagos State. MVAA plate number verification allows vehicle owners to check if their car’s plate number has been correctly registered and is legally recognised.

Why You Should Verify Vehicle Plate Number

Vehicle plate number verification is quite important if you are involved in any transaction that has to do with vehicles. Although it is not mandatory and you may decide to ignore but doing so can put you at great risk. By verifying  a plate number, you would uncover important details about the vehicle that you wouldn’t know just by looking at it.

Another thing is that it helps you avoid falling victim to fraud like buying a stolen car and making sure a car is properly registered. Most importantly, Knowing that your car has correct records gives you peace of mind.

While using MVAA plate number verification is one good way to check a car’s details, there are also other methods available that can help confirm vehicle ownership, and I can explain how to use those if you’d like.

Method 1: How to verify plate number online with MVAA 

One of the simplest ways for people living in Lagos to check a vehicle’s plate number online is by using the official MVAA website. However, it’s important to know that this method only works for vehicles that were registered in Lagos State.

To use the website, you first need to visit the MVAA portal on your phone or computer. Once you’re on the site, type in the plate number of the vehicle you want to check. 

After entering the plate number, click the search button and wait for the website to load the information. The system will then show you details about the vehicle, such as the make, model, and other related information.

After seeing the details, you should compare them with the documents you have, like the vehicle papers, to make sure everything matches.

If you want, you can also download or print out the results so you can keep them for future use or as proof of verification.

Method 2: Use AUTOREG for plate number verification

Another simple and easy option to check a vehicle’s registration status in Nigeria is through the Autoreg verification platform. 

While the MVAA system only works for vehicles that are registered in Lagos, Autoreg can be used by vehicle owners from all over Nigeria. On Autoreg, you can also use other services like renewing vehicle papers, checking insurance status, and confirming other vehicle documents.

To use the Autoreg, you need to visit their official web portal https://portal.autoreg.ng/Authentication/Login. 

Once you’re on the site, log in using your email or username along with your password. 

After logging in, you’ll see a list of available services, so you can pick the verification option that suits your need. 

You’ll then be asked to enter the vehicle’s plate number and some other details. Type the details correctly in the required fields.

When you have provided all details, click the submit button and the system will display the vehicle’s verification status, including details about ownership, on your screen.

Method 3: Use FRSC Plate Number Verification Portal

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) provides a national platform that allows people to check and verify vehicle plate numbers, especially for vehicles registered outside Lagos. This platform is trusted because it is run by a government agency that keeps records of vehicle registrations from all the states in Nigeria.

To use the FRSC system, you need to go to the FRSC National Vehicle Identification System (NVIS) website. The direct link to the login portal is https://nvisnet.com/nvis/login.php .

Once you are on the site, you log in with your registered email and password or click on “Register Here” to register for a new account if you have nr registered.

When you are logged in, type in the vehicle’s plate number in the input field and submit the request. The system will process it and then display the vehicle’s registration status along with some basic information about the vehicle.

Method 4: Use SMS to Verify Vehicle Plate Number

With this SMS option, you can verify a vehicle’s plate number if you don’t have access to a smartphone or the internet. All you need is to simply send a text message.

To use this method, open the text message app on your phone and type only the vehicle’s plate number in the message body. 

Once typed the vehicle’s plate number, send the message to the number 33324. 

After sending the text, you will get a reply on your phone with the details of the vehicle linked to that plate number. This method is convenient and works even on basic phones.

Method 5: Verify Vehicle Plate Number Physical at Licensing Offices

If you run out of the above options, you can choose to visit your local vehicle licensing office for verification. With the advancement in technology, this method is considered time-consuming, but it might be useful when facing complex issues or disputes.

Ensure you have all the necessary details that the officers will use to check the vehicle's ownership status.