JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri has started using a federal database that could reduce the chance of people getting a title for a stolen vehicle.

Missouri this week began cross-checking applications for vehicle titles with information stored in the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System.

The database includes a vehicle identification number, the state in which a vehicle is currently titled, the vehicle's odometer reading and whether the vehicle has an original or salvage title.

The state Department of Revenue says Missouri is the 26th state to fully participate in the system by both providing data for it and making inquiries before it issues a title.