Checking a car’s background is essential before buying or selling in South Africa.
FirstCheck is one of the most trusted tools for verifying vehicle history, ownership, and possible risks. It helps you avoid scams and gives peace of mind in just a few minutes. Many buyers today search for how to check vehicle plates in South Africa, and FirstCheck is one of the most reliable answers.

✅ What Is FirstCheck?
FirstCheck is a mobile app and website that gives you detailed reports on vehicles registered in South Africa. If you’re wondering how to check vehicle plates in South Africa, this tool lets you search using:
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License plate number
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VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
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Engine number
The report shows if the car is:
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Stolen
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Under finance
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Involved in an accident
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Accurately described by the seller
It also includes specs, past owners, and estimated market value.
📌 Why Use FirstCheck?
Using FirstCheck helps you stay safe and make smart decisions. Anyone looking for how to check vehicle plates in South Africa will find it provides critical insights:
🚨 Avoid Buying a Stolen Car
FirstCheck checks police databases to see if a car was reported stolen.
💰 Check for Outstanding Finance
If a car still has debt, it can be repossessed. FirstCheck alerts you.
🧾 Verify Seller Claims
You can confirm if the seller is the real owner and if the details match.
📉 Know the Market Value
The app shows a fair price so you don’t overpay.
⚖️ Legal and Trusted Reports
Reports are accurate and accepted by car dealers and banks.
📱 How to Install FirstCheck
Installing the app is quick and easy. If you’ve been searching for how to check vehicle plates in South Africa, here’s the step to get started:
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Android: Open Google Play Store → Search for “FirstCheck – Vehicle Reports” → Tap Install and create a free account.
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iPhone: Open App Store → Search for “FirstCheck” → Tap Get and register.
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Web Access: You can also use it in your browser: 👉 https://firstcheck.co.za
🔍 How to Use FirstCheck
You can use the app or website to check a license plate in minutes. For those asking how to check vehicle plates in South Africa, the process is simple:
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Log in to the app or site
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Tap “Start a new check”
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Enter the plate number, VIN, or engine number
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Choose basic or full report
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Pay (if needed) using card or wallet
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Get your report instantly
The report will show:
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Theft status
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Finance status
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Accident and ownership history
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Technical vehicle details
You can view, download, or share the report.
⭐ What Makes FirstCheck Stand Out?
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Real-time access to police and finance databases
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Up-to-date vehicle market values
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User-friendly interface
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Fast results – full report in minutes
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Trusted by dealers, buyers, and banks
💳 Is There a Cost?
Yes, reports are paid but affordable. Many people ask if it’s worth paying when they search for how to check vehicle plates in South Africa. The answer is yes: a small fee can save you from huge losses.
Payment options include:
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Credit/debit cards
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Mobile wallets
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Bank transfer
It’s a small price to avoid major problems.
🔚 Final Thoughts
FirstCheck is one of the best apps in South Africa for checking a car’s history. If you’ve ever wondered how to check vehicle plates in South Africa, this is one of the most effective ways.
With only a plate number or VIN, you can:
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Avoid fraud
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Confirm vehicle condition
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Check for unpaid loans
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Get peace of mind
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just checking a car, FirstCheck is fast, secure, and worth using.
👉 Always run a check before buying a used car — it could save you thousands!