License Plate Lookup Legal & Compliance

License plate lookups are regulated by law. I follow all federal rules under the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) to make sure every search is legal and compliant.


What Is the DPPA?

The Driver’s Privacy Protection Act of 1994 (DPPA) is a federal law that restricts access to DMV records. It protects personal information like names and addresses tied to vehicle registrations.

Read the full law here: Cornell Law – 18 U.S. Code § 2721.


Permissible Purposes

You may only order a license plate lookup if you have a legal reason. Common permissible purposes include:

  • Litigation or pre-litigation (lawsuits, service of process, enforcing judgments)

  • Debt recovery or fraud investigation

  • Government or law enforcement use

  • Insurance claim investigation

  • Motor vehicle safety or theft

  • Employment checks for commercial drivers

  • Notifying owners of towed or impounded vehicles

  • Private investigator use for one of the above reasons


Why Compliance Matters

Many “free” lookup sites are misleading. They may give you a vehicle’s make, model, and year, but not the registered owner’s name or address.

Using my service means:

  • You get results legally

  • You stay protected under federal law

  • You have a licensed investigator working for you


My Credentials

  • Licensed private investigator with over 25 years of experience

  • DPPA compliant services

  • Money-back guarantee if no records are found

Need more investigative help? Visit LanceCasey.com to see my other services as a private detective.


Ready to Order?

Stay compliant and get the results you need with a legal license plate lookup.

Order License Plate Lookup


Disclaimer

All lookups require a permissible purpose.