What is REPUVE and how to check if a car is stolen?

What is REPUVE?

The Public Vehicle Registry (REPUVE — Registro Público Vehicular) is a federal database containing information about all registered vehicles in Mexico. Its main purpose is to combat vehicle theft and provide legal certainty to used car buyers.

Why check REPUVE?

Checking REPUVE allows you to know:

• If a vehicle has been reported stolen
• If it has any legal restrictions (seized, total loss, etc.)
• The registration status of the vehicle in the federal registry

This check is especially important when you're about to buy a used car, as it protects you from acquiring a vehicle with legal issues.

How to check REPUVE?

Traditional method

You can check directly on the official REPUVE portal by entering the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or serial number.

With RegioPlacas

RegioPlacas integrates the REPUVE check directly into the app:

1. Register your vehicle with its plate number
2. The app automatically queries the REPUVE status
3. See if your vehicle has any reports or restrictions

When should I check REPUVE?

• Before buying a used car — The most important step
• After a recent purchase — To verify the transfer was completed correctly
• Periodically — To make sure your vehicle doesn't have erroneous reports

What if my car shows a theft report?

If your vehicle appears with a report that doesn't correspond, you must go to the State Attorney General's Office to clarify the situation. Bring your original invoice, ID and circulation card.

Check your status with RegioPlacas

With RegioPlacas you can verify the REPUVE status of your vehicles without needing to look up the VIN. Just with your plate number, the app gives you the information you need.