Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA)

The Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) is a federal law that establishes strict rules for how state motor vehicle departments (DMVs) may collect, use, and share personal information about drivers. The law also establishes a national driver's privacy database, which allows drivers to find out who has accessed their records and to limit access to those records.

The DPPA was enacted in 1994 in response to concerns about the misuse of personal information obtained from state DMVs. The law was amended in 2000 to give drivers more control over their records, and again in 2005 to further strengthen protections for driver privacy.

The DPPA prohibits state DMVs from disclosing personal information about drivers, unless the disclosure is specifically permitted by the law. Permissible disclosures include those made for motor vehicle safety, fraud prevention, and law enforcement purposes.

The DPPA also requires state DMVs to allow drivers to inspect their records, to correct inaccurate information, and to limit access to their records to those individuals who have a legitimate need for the information.

The DPPA is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which can bring civil enforcement actions against state DMVs that violate the law. The U.S. Department of Justice can also bring criminal charges against state officials who knowingly and willfully disclose driver information in violation of the DPPA.

Are driver's license numbers public record in Florida? Yes, driver's license numbers are public record in Florida. However, there are a few caveats. First, the driver's license number must be released in response to a valid public records request. Second, the driver's license number may only be released to the person who is the subject of the request, or to that person's authorized representatives. Finally, the release of the driver's license number must be in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws.

How can I check my driving record in Florida? To check your driving record in Florida, you can contact the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). You will need to provide your personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and driver's license number. The DHSMV will then provide you with a copy of your driving record. Is it legal to look up license plates in Texas? Yes, it is legal to look up license plates in Texas. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles provides a public database of registered vehicles and their corresponding license plate numbers. This database can be searched by anyone for any purpose. How long does a ticket stay on your record in Florida? According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, a ticket will stay on your record for at least three years. However, the specific length of time may vary depending on the type of offense. For example, a DUI will remain on your record for up to 10 years. How long does a suspended license stay on your record in Florida? In Florida, a suspended license stays on your record for 5 years.