Can a Private Business Use My License Plate to Gather Information? Understanding the Laws in Washington State

Recently, a new car wash opened in town and offered free car washes. During my visit, instead of any conversation, I simply handed over my license plate and received a receipt that indicated I had been charged nothing, with my name at the bottom. This raised a pressing question: Can a private business obtain my personal information from my license plate? In this article, we will explore the legal framework, addressing this and other related concerns specific to Washington State.

Introduction

The issue of a private business using a license plate to gather personal information is not a minor one, especially in a data-savvy society. This practice, known as a license plate search, is regulated by various legal statutes and guidelines. In Washington State, such practices are governed by the Federal Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) and specific state laws.

LICENSE PLATE SEARCH IN WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State allows certain businesses and government entities to perform a license plate search. This service, called Contracted Plate Search, enables them to view vehicle and vessel records including the Registered Owner's Name, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), License Plate Number, Boat Hull ID Number (HIN), or Boat WN Number.

How to Conduct a Plate Search

To access these records, one must sign up for an account with License eXpress. This online platform requires users to comply with several legal guidelines to ensure the protection of personal information.

Legal Compliance Requirements

Federal Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA): This federal law governs the release of information from motor vehicle records. 18 USC 2721-2725: These sections outline the permissible uses of this data. RCW 46.12.635 and 46.12.640: These state statutes provide additional legal frameworks. WAC 30810075 and 30893087: Washington Administrative Code further defines specific regulations.

Who Can Obtain a Plate Search Contract?

A variety of entities may obtain a plate search contract, ensuring that the information is used for permissible purposes. These entities include:

Attorneys Insurance Agents Private Investigators Process Servers Vehicle Dealers Vehicle Wreckers or Salvage Processors Out-of-State Tow Truck Operators Courts and Law Enforcement Agencies Government Agencies

Permissible Uses of Plate Search Information

The data obtained through a plate search can be used for various legitimate purposes, such as:

Processing Insurance Claims Buying, Selling, Impounding, or Destroying Vehicles Administering Vehicle Taxes Enforcing or Administering Vehicle-Related Laws

Conclusion

While a private business like a car wash might not typically engage in license plate searches, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. The DPPA and state laws in Washington ensure that the use of personal data derived from license plates is limited to specific and permissible purposes. If you feel your privacy has been violated, it's important to consult with a legal professional to explore your rights and options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal for a business to use my license plate to gather information? Yes, but only under specific circumstances and with proper authorization. Businesses must comply with the Federal Driver Privacy Protection Act and other state regulations. Can I request a license plate search for my own vehicle? Yes, you can access your own vehicle information. However, you cannot obtain information about another person's vehicle without their consent unless it falls under one of the permissible uses mentioned in the legislation. Who should I contact if I believe my personal data has been misused? You should report the violation to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Washington Privacy Office. Legal advice from an attorney is also highly recommended.

References

For further information, visit the following websites:

License eXpress RCW 46.12.635 and 46.12.640 OLRC Home