The VTR-275 form is a vital resource for individuals seeking Texas Motor Vehicle Information, covering aspects such as vehicle title, registration records, and owner or lienholder information. Adhering to the Driver Privacy Protection Act, it mandates the submission of a government-issued photo ID and the applicant's signature to validate the request. For those needing to access specific vehicle information, this form guides through the process, including the necessary documentation and fees associated with the request. Click the button below to start filling out your VTR-275 form today.
Access to motor vehicle records in Texas is a matter regulated with great care to protect individuals' privacy, as highlighted by the VTR-275 form, a key document for those seeking Texas Motor Vehicle Information. This form, created under the guidelines of the Driver Privacy Protection Act, serves as a vital tool for individuals or entities needing detailed vehicle information, ranging from title history to registration verification. Applicants are required to provide a signature alongside a copy of their current government-issued photo ID to certify the truthfulness of their statements regarding the described vehicle. The form facilitates a variety of requests, including title and registration verification, duplicate registration receipts, and more, with fees applicable for different services. It's critical that the information obtained through this process is used in accordance with both federal and state privacy protection laws, ensuring it's not exploited for marketing, solicitation, or survey purposes. This form underscores the commitment of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to safeguard personal information while also accommodating legitimate requests for vehicle records, demonstrating a balance between transparency and privacy.
Request for Texas
Motor Vehicle Information
Information and Instructions
The Driver Privacy Protection Act restricts access to personal information on vehicle title and registration records. Your signature and a copy of your current government issued photo ID are required with this application to certify the statements are true and correct for the described vehicle.
Submit completed and signed form with copy of your government issued photo ID, written authorization and required documentation, if applicable, to the following address or visit a Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) Regional Service Center for assistance. Include payment in the form of a personal check, money order, or cashier's check made payable to TxDMV. Do not mail cash. Fees are not refundable.
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Titles and Registration Division
Austin, TX 78779-0001
Applicant Information
First Name
Middle Name
Last Name
Business Name (if applicable)
Suffix
Address
City
State
ZIP
Email
Phone Number
Government Issued Photo Identification – Submit Photocopy
Entity Issuing ID and Type (e.g., TX Driver License, US Passport, etc.)
Government Photo ID Number
Expires
Search Information
Texas License Plate
Year
Make
Vehicle Identification Number
Title Document Number
Records Request
If you are not the owner/lienholder, initial a Permitted Use on page 2 - unless you have written authorization. Select from the following:
Titlehistory
$5.75
Certified title history
$6.75
Title and registration verification of a vehicle record (current or expired)
$2.30
Certified title and registration verification of a vehicle record - for court use
$3.30
Duplicate registration receipt for current registration period
$2.00
Other - Please attach documentation explaining the request. You will be contacted with the fee total, which is based on the effort to fill the request.
Certification – State law makes falsifying information a third degree felony.
I certify that the statements on this application are true and correct and request the TxDMV provide me with the requested information contained in the motor vehicle record for the vehicle indicated. In making this request, I also certify that the:
•Information requested is for a lawful and legitimate purpose and will be used only in accordance with 18 U.S. Code §§2721-2725 and Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 730 (Driver Privacy Protection Acts);
•Personal information obtained pursuant to this request will not be used for marketing, solicitation or survey purposes; and
•I have not been convicted of a violation of either of the Driver Privacy Protection Acts, or violated a rule adopted by the department relating to the terms and conditions for release of personal information from vehicle records.
Name of Applicant
Date
Signature of Applicant
Violators can be prosecuted under Texas Transportation Code, Section 730.013 and Penal Code, Section 37.10.
Form VTR-275 Rev. 8/2018
Form available online at www.TxDMV.gov
Page 1 of 2
Request for Texas Motor Vehicle Information
Permitted Use – Sign or print your initials on the appropriate line for your use of the requested information.
Choose one of the following options.
1. I am the current recorded owner or lienholder of the vehicle;
2. Written authorization is attached from the person(s) listed as the recorded owner, lienholder or previous owner; or
3. My authority to obtain vehicle information is for the permitted use noted below. I understand the use of the requested information is strictly limited to:
______ A governmental entity, including law enforcement (check applicable box):
A government agency, including any court or law enforcement agency, in carrying out its functions.
A private person or entity acting on behalf of a government agency in carrying out the functions of the agency.
______ Use in connection with one of the following (check applicable box):
Motor vehicle safety or motor vehicle operator safety.
Motor vehicle theft.
Motor vehicle emissions.
Motor vehicle product alterations, recalls or advisories.
Performance monitoring of motor vehicles, motor vehicle parts, or motor vehicle dealers.
Motor vehicle market research activities, including survey research.
Removal of non-owner records from the original owner records of a motor vehicle manufacturer to carry out the purposes of the Automobile Information Disclosure Act, the Anti Car Theft Act of 1992, and the Clean Air Act.
For child support enforcement.
Enforcement by the Texas Workforce Commission.
Voter registration or the administration of elections by the secretary of state.
______ Use in the normal course of business by a legitimate business or its authorized agent, but only to verify accuracy of personal
information submitted by the individual; and, if the information is not correct, to obtain the correct information for the sole purpose of preventing fraud by, pursuing a legal remedy against or recovering on a debt or security interest against the individual. (Requestor must submit the information to be verified against the department’s records.)
______ In conjunction with a civil, criminal, administrative or arbitral proceeding in any court or government agency or before any
self-regulatory body, including service of process, investigation in anticipation of litigation, execution or enforcement of a judgment or order, or under an order of any court. (Requestor must submit proof of legal proceeding or proof of anticipated proceeding.)
Use in research or in producing statistical reports, but only if the personal information is NOT published, redisclosed, or used to contact any individual. (Requestor must submit proof of employment in a research occupation.)
Use by an insurer or insurance support organization, a self-insured entity or as an authorized agent of the entity in connection with claims investigation activities, antifraud activities, rating or underwriting. (Requestor must submit a license number provided by the Texas Department of Insurance or out-of-state equivalent, a license number the insurance support organization is working under, or proof of self-insurance. License Number: _________________________)
______ Use in providing notice to an owner of a towed or impounded vehicle. (Requestor must submit a license number provided by
the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation or out-of-state equivalent. License Number: _________________________)
______ Use by a licensed private investigation agency or licensed security service authorized to use the information for a permitted
purpose. (Requestor must submit a license number provided by the Texas Department of Public Safety or out-of-state equivalent. License Number: __________________________)
______ Use in connection with the operation of a private toll transportation facility. (Requestor must submit documentation to relate
the requested personal information with operation of a private toll transportation facility.)
______ Use by a consumer reporting agency, as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act, for a purpose permitted under that Act.
(Requestor must submit documentation on official letterhead indicating a permitted use for personal information as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act.)
Resale and Redisclosure
Motor vehicle record information obtained by an authorized recipient for a permitted use may not be resold or redisclosed unless the information is provided to other authorized recipients and used only for the permitted use. Information obtained as a result of this request may not be resold or redisclosed in the same or substantially identical format as it is received from the TxDMV. Any original recipient is responsible for misuse of the motor vehicles records, regardless if they approved or were aware of subsequent transfers of the information.
An authorized recipient who resells or rediscloses motor vehicle records is required to maintain records of that transaction for a period of not less than five years. The department has the authority to request and review records kept by all authorized recipients. For further information regarding resale and redisclosure requirements, refer to the Texas Administrative Code, Rule §§217.127 and 217.128.
Page 2 of 2
Filling out the VTR-275 form is a necessary step to request specific Texas motor vehicle information. This procedure involves providing detailed personal and vehicle information and is safeguarded under the Driver Privacy Protection Act to ensure responsible use of sensitive data. Completing this form correctly is crucial to comply with legal requirements and avoid any potential issues. Please follow the steps below carefully to accurately complete and submit your VTR-275 form.
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles Vehicle Titles and Registration Division Austin, TX 78779-0001
After submitting your form, it will be processed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. They may contact you to confirm the fee total based on the request you have made. It's important to follow all steps accurately to ensure your request is processed promptly and correctly. Your understanding and cooperation with these regulations help maintain privacy and security in accessing vital motor vehicle information.
What is the VTR-275 form used for?
The VTR-275 form, Request for Texas Motor Vehicle Information, is primarily used to obtain various records related to motor vehicles registered in Texas. This includes title history, verification of title and registration, and duplicating registration receipts. It's designed to ensure that requests for sensitive vehicle information are conducted within the bounds of law, particularly under the Driver Privacy Protection Act which governs the privacy of personal information in motor vehicle records.
Who needs to complete the VTR-275 form?
Individuals or entities needing official records or documentation of a motor vehicle registered in Texas should complete the form. Since access to certain information is restricted by law, the form is necessary for anyone who is not the current owner or a lienholder on the vehicle but needs access to its records for legitimate reasons, such as for court proceedings, in connection with motor vehicle safety inspections, or for authorized research activities.
What documentation is required to submit along with the VTR-275 form?
Along with a completed and signed VTR-275 form, the applicant must submit a copy of their government-issued photo ID. Additionally, if the applicant is not the vehicle's owner or lienholder and does not have written authorization from them, they will need to demonstrate their authority to request the information based on a permitted use listed on the form. Depending on the specific request, additional documentation explaining or substantiating the request may be required.
How can I submit the VTR-275 form?
The form, along with all required documentation and the appropriate fees, may be submitted by mail to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles Vehicle Titles and Registration Division in Austin, TX. Alternatively, applicants may also visit a Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) Regional Service Center for assistance. Cash payments are not accepted, so fees must be paid by personal check, money order, or cashier’s check made payable to TxDMV.
Are there any fees associated with the VTR-275 form?
Yes, depending on the type of information requested, there are various fees associated with the processing of the VTR-275 form. For example, title history requests cost $5.75, while certified title and registration verification costs $3.30. These fees are not refundable, and it is advised to check the form or contact the TxDMV for the most current fee structure before submitting the request.
What laws govern the use of the information obtained through the VTR-275 form?
Any information obtained through the VTR-275 form is protected under the Driver Privacy Protection Acts, both federal (18 U.S. Code §§2721-2725) and state (Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 730). These laws restrict the use of personal information derived from vehicle records, explicitly prohibiting its use for marketing, solicitation, or surveying purposes without proper authorization. Applicants are also required to certify that the requested information is for a lawful and legitimate purpose.
How long does it take to process a VTR-275 form?
The processing time can vary based on the complexity of the request and the current workflow at the TxDMV. For the most accurate information regarding processing times, it's recommended to contact the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles directly or visit their official website. However, visits to a TxDMV Regional Service Center may facilitate a quicker response for certain types of requests.
Filling out the VTR-275 form, a Request for Texas Motor Vehicle Information, seems straightforward, but errors can easily occur if not approached with care. One common mistake is neglecting to provide a signature along with a photocopy of a current government-issued photo ID. This step is crucial as it certifies that the statements made on the application are true and correct for the described vehicle, ensuring the application complies with legal requirements.
Another point where applicants often stumble is in the selection of records requested. With options like title history, certified title history, and verification of vehicle record among others, it's easy to tick off the wrong box or misunderstand the nature of the information needed. This mistake can not only delay the process but may also lead to unintended expenses given that each record comes with a specific fee.
A critical mistake to avoid involves the payment process. Applicants sometimes forget that payment must be included in the form of a personal check, money order, or cashier’s check made payable to TxDMV. Mailing cash is a mistake that can lead to lost funds and an incomplete application. Furthermore, not calculating the correct fee based on the selected records or opting for certified options without realizing the additional cost can lead to underpayment, which delays processing.
Incorrectly completing the “Applicant Information” section by leaving out details such as the email or phone number can significantly slow down the processing of the form. These contact details are crucial for any needed follow-up or clarification without which the application might stall. It's not just about filling every field but ensuring the information is accurate and current.
Under the “Permitted Use” section, failing to initial the correct option or not attaching necessary written authorization if required can be a barrier to accessing the information. This mistake can particularly affect those who are not the owner/lienholder but need access to the vehicle's information for legitimate purposes. Without clear authorization or correctly indicated permitted use, the request can be denied in accordance with the Driver Privacy Protection Act.
Falsifying information or failing to certify that the request is for a lawful and legitimate purpose can have serious consequences, as it's considered a third-degree felony. This misstep is more than an error; it's a legal violation that can lead to penalties beyond just a rejected application. Applicants must ensure that their intentions align with the allowable uses under the law to avoid such outcomes.
Lastly, overlooking the resale and redisclosure section can be problematic for entities planning to use the information beyond personal inquiry. This section has specific rules regarding the maintenance of records for transactions involving the obtained vehicle information. Ignoring these requirements not only risks compliance issues but also legal repercussions for misuse of the motor vehicle records obtained.
When dealing with vehicle-related matters, specifically when using the VTR-275 form to request Texas Motor Vehicle Information, it's common to need other forms and documents to complete your transaction or process comprehensively. Here are some frequently used forms and documents that serve various purposes from proving ownership to updating personal details on official vehicle records.
Each of these forms plays a unique role in the vehicle ownership and management process, complementing the information and authorization provided through the VTR-275 form. Users are advised to review the specific requirements and instructions for each document, as they each serve to facilitate different aspects of vehicle administration and legal compliance.
The Driver's License Application is a document that bears resemblance to the VTR-275 form in its requirement for personal identification and a governmental entity's oversight. Just like the VTR-275 form mandates a current government-issued photo ID to verify the applicant's identity and statements, a Driver's License Application necessitates similar forms of identification. Both serve as official requests within their respective domains, governed by state and federal laws to ensure the legitimacy and security of the process.
The Vehicle Registration Form parallels the VTR-275 form in its purpose to document and affirm vehicle-related information under a state department's jurisdiction. It collects details about the vehicle and the owner, similar to how the VTR-275 form gathers information for title and registration verification. Both include safeguards to protect personal information, adhering to legal standards and requiring applicants to certify the truthfulness of their submissions.
A Request for Driving Record form also shares similarities with the VTR-275 form, particularly in how they both cater to specific informational requests under legal frameworks, like the Driver Privacy Protection Act. Applicants on both forms must specify the reason for their request and often need to prove their entitlement to the information sought, ensuring that the request aligns with permissible uses under the law.
The Application for Disabled Parking Placard is somewhat akin to the VTR-275 form by involving vehicle and personal identification processes, albeit for a different purpose. This application requires verification of identity and condition, similarly necessitating documentation and certification by authorities, just as the VTR-275 form mandates applicants to certify their statements and provide a government-issued ID for verification.
Court documents requesting vehicle records for legal proceedings resemble the VTR-275 form in their function of obtaining vehicle-related information for use in a legal context. Both types of documents are structured around legal permissions and restrictions, ensuring that the information requested is for lawful purposes and handled in compliance with specific regulations, such as for litigation or investigation purposes.
Business Credit Application forms share the aspect of verifying information for legitimacy and fraud prevention, akin to the VTR-275 form's intention behind verifying title and registration details. While the context differs, both documents operate under the premise of assessing and confirming the accuracy of provided information for protection against fraudulent activities.
The Personal Information Release Form mirrors the VTR-275 form in its controlled access to confidential information. Each form requires explicit consent for the release or request of personal details, adhering to privacy laws and ensuring that such information is disseminated only for approved and lawful reasons.
The Insurance Claim Form, similar to the VTR-275, involves the disclosure of vehicle and personal information within a regulatory framework, aiming to verify facts for specific purposes. In the case of the insurance claim, it's for claim processing, whereas the VTR-275 form serves various permitted uses related to vehicle information. Both are bounded by privacy considerations and necessitate accuracy in the information provided by the requestor.
When completing the VTR-275 form for requesting Texas Motor Vehicle Information, it is vital to approach the process meticulously and responsibly. Understanding the dos and don'ts can significantly aid in ensuring the request is processed efficiently and lawfully. Below are the essential guidelines to follow:
Things You Should Do
Things You Shouldn't Do
By observing these guidelines, applicants can avoid common pitfalls and ensure their request for vehicle information is processed smoothly and complies with all relevant laws and regulations.
One common misconception about the VTR-275 form is that it allows unrestricted access to vehicle information. The truth is, access to personal information on vehicle title and registration records is strictly restricted by the Driver Privacy Protection Act. Applicants must certify that their request is for a lawful and legitimate purpose, and adhere to specific guidelines for use, ensuring personal information is not used improperly.
Another misunderstanding is that a copy of a government-issued photo ID is optional when submitting the form. In reality, a current government-issued photo ID copy is required alongside the form to verify the applicant's identity. This requirement ensures that the statements on the application are true and correct, aligning with the effort to protect personal information.
Some believe that cash payments are accepted for processing the VTR-275 form. However, the form expressly states that applicants should include payment in the form of a personal check, money order, or cashier's check made payable to TxDMV. Mailing cash is explicitly advised against, ensuring the security of the payment process.
There's also a misconception that the fees paid with the VTR-275 form are refundable. The form clearly states that fees are not refundable, meaning that once paid, these funds cannot be returned to the applicant. This underscores the importance of making sure that the form is filled out accurately and that the request is necessary.
When filling out and using the VTR-275 form for requesting Texas Motor Vehicle Information, it's important to consider several key takeaways to ensure compliance and proper use of the requested data:
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