Vehicle Impounds
Vehicle Impound Hearings
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why was my vehicle impounded?
Your vehicle was impounded because you or another person who was driving your vehicle has:
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- A revoked/suspended driver’s license
- A driver has never been issued a driver’s license
- The vehicle registration is expired more than six months
- Vehicle was used in a crime – evidence
The registered owner can also be cited for allowing an unlicensed driver to drive their vehicle. Here are some common circumstances:
I let 'so and so' drive. I didn't know his or her license was not valid.
If it's your vehicle, it's your responsibility. Under section 14604 CVC, the owner of a vehicle has a duty to ensure the person driving their vehicle possesses a valid license. If you allow or permit anyone, including your spouse, child, friend or relative to drive your vehicle and that person does not have a valid license, you will be responsible for towing and storage fees. You will not have access to your vehicle for 30 days.
He or she took the car without my permission.
To say that someone has taken your car without your permission is not a valid excuse. Ask yourself how this happened. Have you allowed this person to use your car in the past? Do they have access to your vehicle? Did you ask to see their license?
To say that someone without a valid license has taken your vehicle without your knowledge or permission, is in fact, cause for a stolen vehicle report to be filed. That person will be arrested for vehicle theft and prosecuted for that crime.
What if I don't agree with the officer who impounded my car?
The registered owner may request a post-storage hearing. It is a review of the impound as provided for in the California Vehicle Code. This is an administrative review to determine whether the officer had reasonable cause to impound the vehicle.
- My car was impounded, what do I do?
If your vehicle was impounded because it was abandoned, a traffic hazard or the driver was arrested, you can obtain a release from the Police Department. There is a $180.80 charge for all vehicle release forms.
If your vehicle was impounded for expired registration, all DMV fees must be paid, prior to release. Please bring your DMV paperwork and receipt.
If your vehicle was impounded because it was being driven by an unlicensed driver or someone with a suspended driver's license, it will be impounded for 30-days, per California Vehicle Code section 14602.6. In order to get a vehicle release form, you must:
- Be the registered owner and be present with a valid driver’s license.
- Present valid registration or receipt of fees paid.
- Show proof of current insurance for the vehicle.
- Do I need a vehicle release?
If your vehicle was stolen / recovered or towed during an accident, you do not need a vehicle release. If in doubt, call PPD records to verify.
The release is $180.80.
The registered/legal owner of the impounded vehicle is responsible for all towing, storage, lien, and release fees.
- How are impound hearings scheduled?
By either scanning the QR Code or clicking the Web Link provided below. You will be prompted to select a day and time. Provide the requested information. Click book and an conformation email will be sent to you confirming your appointment.
- Scan the QR Code to Schedule
- Or Follow the Link Below
