What Do Police See When They Run Your Plates?

Understanding License Plate Checks

• When police run your license plates, they access a database that provides information about the registered vehicle and its owner.
• These checks are often conducted during routine traffic stops, at checkpoints, or through automated license plate readers (ALPRs) used by patrol vehicles.
• The goal is to identify potential issues, such as expired registrations, outstanding warrants, or stolen vehicles, ensuring public safety and law enforcement efficiency.
• Learn more about license plate checks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

What Information Do Police See?

• Vehicle Registration Details: Information about the vehicle, including make, model, year, color, and license plate expiration date.
• Ownership Information: The name and address of the registered owner, as well as any co-owners listed on the registration.
• Insurance Status: In states requiring proof of insurance, police may see whether the vehicle has valid coverage.
• Active Warrants: If the registered owner has outstanding warrants, this information will appear during the plate check.
• Stolen Vehicle Alerts: If the vehicle is reported stolen, the system will flag it immediately.
• Criminal or Traffic Violations: Information about the owner’s criminal record or history of traffic violations, depending on state databases.

How Police Run License Plates

• Manual Entry: Officers manually input the plate number into a computer system linked to state and national databases.
• Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs): Cameras mounted on police vehicles or stationary locations scan license plates and automatically check them against databases in real-time.
• Database Access: Systems like the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and state-specific databases store and share this information.

What Police Do Not See

• Police do not have access to personal details such as financial records, medical history, or credit scores through license plate checks.
• They cannot see private information unrelated to the vehicle, such as the owner’s Social Security number or employment details.
• For information on privacy protections, visit the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF).

When Police Run Plates Without a Traffic Stop

• Police can legally run license plates without initiating a traffic stop or suspecting wrongdoing.
• This practice helps identify stolen vehicles, uninsured drivers, or vehicles associated with criminal activity.
• Courts have upheld the legality of this practice, as license plates are publicly visible and not considered private information.

How ALPRs Enhance Law Enforcement

• Automated License Plate Readers improve efficiency by scanning hundreds of plates per minute and alerting officers to potential violations or matches in the database.
• ALPR technology is used for purposes such as:
  • Identifying stolen vehicles.
  • Locating missing persons or individuals with active warrants.
  • Monitoring vehicles in high-crime areas.

Concerns About Privacy and Data Usage

• The use of ALPRs and database checks has raised concerns about privacy and data retention.
• Critics argue that extensive data collection may lead to misuse or unauthorized surveillance.
• Advocacy groups are pushing for stricter regulations to govern how data is collected, stored, and accessed.
• For more on privacy concerns, visit the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

How to Ensure Your Information Is Accurate

• Regularly update your vehicle registration and ensure your insurance information is accurate and current.
• Verify that your vehicle is not incorrectly flagged as stolen or associated with legal issues.
• Contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you notice discrepancies or outdated information.

What to Do If You’re Stopped After a Plate Check

• Stay Calm: Remain composed and follow the officer’s instructions.
• Provide Required Documents: Be prepared to present your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
• Clarify Issues: If the officer mentions a problem with your plate, inquire politely and provide any necessary documentation to resolve the matter.

Legal Protections and Rights

• While police can run plates without suspicion, they must follow due process if the check leads to a traffic stop or search.
• Unlawful stops or searches based on incorrect information can be challenged in court.
• Consult an attorney if you believe your rights were violated during a plate check or related traffic stop.

How Lawyers Corner Can Help
At Lawyers Corner, we understand the complexities of traffic laws and the potential implications of license plate checks. Whether you’re dealing with incorrect plate information, disputing a traffic citation, or addressing concerns about privacy, our experienced legal team is here to provide guidance and representation.

For personalized legal assistance and to learn more about how we can help, visit Lawyers Corner Contact Us. Let us support you in navigating these issues with confidence and expertise.