The Texas MV-440 form serves as a crucial tool for individuals seeking information on motor vehicles in Texas, specifically facilitating the request for motor vehicle title and registration records while adhering to the Driver Privacy Protection Act. It requires an application to be submitted along with a copy of the applicant's government-issued photo identification and mandates the signature of the applicant to validate the request. For anyone needing to obtain detailed vehicle information for lawful and legitimate purposes, the MV-440 form is an essential document to complete.
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Delving into the intricacies of the Texas MV-440 form, it's essential to recognize its role as a pivotal document for individuals seeking to obtain motor vehicle information in Harris County. This comprehensive form, sanctioned under the Driver Privacy Protection Act, outlines stringent measures to safeguard personal information related to vehicle title and registration records. Applicants must provide a copy of a current government-issued photo ID and sign the form to validate the accuracy of the provided information, reflecting the seriousness of the privacy concerns involved. Beyond serving as a request portal, the MV-440 form encompasses provisions for updating the address of the recorded owner, if necessary, thereby streamlining communications related to vehicle records. Applicants are required to navigate through a checklist of permitted uses, ensuring their request aligns with lawful reasons such as motor vehicle safety, theft investigations, emissions, and more, with the accompanying need for supporting documentation in certain scenarios. A notable aspect of the form is its emphasis on the legal ramifications of misusing the information obtained, underscoring a commitment to prevent the misuse of sensitive data. Moreover, the form provides clear guidelines on the resale and redisclosure of information, reflecting a meticulous approach to maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of motor vehicle records. As a gateway to accessing crucial vehicle information, the Texas MV-440 form embodies a meticulous balance between information accessibility and privacy protection, serving as a critical tool for individuals, law enforcement, and businesses alike.
RequestforMotorVehicleInformation
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MAIL TO: Ann Harris Bennett, Tax Assessor-Collector
Harris County
P.O. Box 4089
Houston, Texas 77210-4089
The Driver Privacy Protection Act restricts access to personal information on vehicle title and registration records. A copy of your current government issued photo identification must accompany application. Signature of applicant is required.
I am the current recorded owner of the vehicle.
Written authorization is attached from the person(s) listed as the recorded owner, lienholder or previous owner.
My authority to obtain vehicle information is shown as a permitted use on page 2. (Initial the appropriate line, check the applicable box on page 2, and sign the statement below. If required, attach the appropriate supporting documentation.)
APPLICANT INFORMATION If recorded owner, check box to update address as shown on this application □
Last Name or Business Name
First Name
Middle Initial
Address
City
State
Zip Code
Day Phone
E-mail
GOVERNMENT ISSUED PHOTO IDENTIFICATION – SUBMIT PHOTOCOPY
Entity Issuing ID and Type (i.e., Texas Driver License, U.S. Passport, etc.)
Government Photo ID Number
Expires
VEHICLE INFORMATION
Texas License Plate
Year
Make
Vehicle Identification Number
Title Document Number
If you are not the owner/lienholder, initial a Permitted Use on page 2 - unless you have written authorization.
....................................Title and registration verification of a vehicle record (current or expired)
$2.00 per record
Statement: State law makes falsifying information on this application a third-degree felony.
I certify the statements on this application are true and correct. I request the Harris County Tax Office 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 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 (type or print):
Date:
Signature of Applicant(required):
Violators can be prosecuted under Transportation Code, Section 730.013 and Penal Code, Section 37.10.
MV-440
www.hctax.net
Rev 2/19
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.
Before diving into filling out the Texas MV-440 form, it's essential to understand the gravity of the information you're dealing with. This form is a tool for requesting motor vehicle information, which is strictly regulated under the Driver Privacy Protection Act. Therefore, the information you provide must be used for lawful purposes only, and you must have proper authorization or a permitted use case that qualifies under the guidelines provided. With these responsibilities in mind, follow the steps below to accurately fill out the form.
Upon submitting the MV-440 form and necessary documentation, the request will be processed according to the guidelines set by the Harris County Tax Office. It's important to accurately provide all the required information and to ensure that the intended use of the vehicle records follows the laws and regulations stipulated under the Driver Privacy Protection Act. Failure to comply can have severe legal consequences.
The Texas MV-440 form, also known as the Request for Motor Vehicle Information, is a document used to request vehicle title and registration records from the Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector's office. It's designed to protect drivers' privacy under the Driver Privacy Protection Act. Individuals fill out this form to get information about a vehicle, which could be for various reasons, including verifying ownership, updating address information, or conducting legitimate business inquiries tied to the vehicle.
Information request through the Texas MV-440 form is regulated, and not everyone can access motor vehicle records. The form outlines several permitted uses and individuals or entities that may request this information, including:
Each request must be accompanied by documentation proving the purpose of the request falls within the permitted uses as listed on the form.
When submitting the Texas MV-440 form, applicants need to provide specific documentation to validate their request. The required documents include:
It's important to provide all the necessary documents to ensure the request is processed without delays.
To comply with regulations when using information obtained via the Texas MV-440 form, requesters must:
By following these guidelines, individuals and entities can use the information obtained from the Texas MV-440 form responsibly and legally.
When completing the Texas MV-440 form, individuals often overlook certain steps or make mistakes that can lead to delays or the rejection of their application. Here are seven common mishaps:
Not providing a photocopy of a current government-issued photo identification with the application. This document is crucial for verifying the identity of the applicant.
Failing to initial the line that corresponds to their authority to obtain vehicle information. Applicants must indicate their relationship to the vehicle or their legal right to request the information.
Forgetting to check the box on page 2 that corresponds to the permitted use of the requested information. This checkbox confirms the lawful basis for the request.
Omitting the signature. The application requires the applicant's signature to certify that the statements made on the form are true and correct. An unsigned form cannot be processed.
Incorrectly filling out the vehicle information section, such as providing an inaccurate Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate number. Accurate vehicle details are vital for retrieving the correct information from the vehicle records.
Sending in the application without the required supporting documentation for the stated permitted use. Depending on the applicant's reason for requesting information, additional documents may be necessary to substantiate the request.
Using the form for purposes not allowed under the Driver Privacy Protection Acts. Applicants must ensure that their request aligns with permissible uses as outlined in the Acts and on the second page of the MV-440 form.
In summary, attention to detail is crucial when completing the MV-440 form to avoid these common mistakes. Failure to comply with the requirements can lead to processing delays or denial of the request. Always review the form thoroughly before submission to ensure that all necessary information and documentation are provided.
When dealing with motor vehicle information in Texas, the Texas MV-440 form plays a crucial role. However, it is often not the only document required. To ensure seamless interactions with motor vehicle and driver licensing authorities, knowing what other forms might be needed is beneficial. Here, we explore other commonly used forms and documents, each serving its specific purpose in the chain of motor vehicle records and transactions.
Together with the MV-440 form, these documents facilitate various legal and administrative actions related to vehicle ownership and operation in Texas. By understanding and adequately preparing these forms, individuals and businesses can navigate the intricacies of motor vehicle transactions more smoothly, ensuring compliance with state requirements and safeguarding their interests.
The Texas Certificate of Title form, similar to the Texas MV-440, is a key document for vehicle owners in Texas. Like the MV-440, it contains important vehicle details such as make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Both documents are pivotal for legal and administrative purposes, facilitating the accurate tracking and identification of vehicles within the state. However, while the MV-440 primarily focuses on requesting motor vehicle information, the Certificate of Title serves as proof of ownership of the vehicle.
Vehicle Registration Application forms, another counterpart, also share similarities with the Texas MV-440 form. These forms are essential for vehicle owners to legally drive on public roads. Both documents require detailed vehicle information, including license plate numbers and VINs. Through these forms, the state ensures that all vehicles are properly registered, and relevant information is up to date, enhancing road safety and compliance with state laws.
The Application for Personalized License Plate in Texas resonates with the purpose of the MV-440 by handling specific vehicle-related requests from owners or authorized entities. This form requires similar vehicle identification details and emphasizes personalized service to vehicle owners. The comparison highlights a tailored approach to vehicle registration and personalization within the legal framework, showcasing the state's dedication to accommodating personal preferences while maintaining accurate vehicle records.
A Bill of Sale for a Motor Vehicle in Texas parallels the MV-440 form in its function of transferring vehicle information, albeit in a different context. While the MV-440 requests existing records from the state, the Bill of Sale documents the transfer of ownership between private parties, citing vehicle details crucial for updating state records. This ensures a continuum in the vehicle's documented history, aiding in its official identification and ownership tracking.
The Vehicle Transfer Notification form in Texas serves a function akin to that of the MV-440, focusing on updating records rather than requesting them. It informs the state about a change in vehicle ownership, protecting the seller from liability. Both forms deal directly with changes to the vehicle’s recorded history, underlining the importance of timely updates to the official vehicle records for accurate state documentation.
The Application for Disabled Person Identification Plaque is tailored specifically to a certain group's requirements but shares with the MV-440 the underlying theme of vehicle and owner identification. It involves submitting personal and vehicle information to state agencies to receive special services, emphasizing the trait of providing detailed vehicle data for specific statutory purposes.
The Notice of Vehicle Sale in Texas is utilized when owners sell their vehicle, ensuring the state is informed of the change in ownership. Similar to the MV-440, it deals with the accurate and updated record-keeping of vehicle information, although from the perspective of sale rather than information request. This form facilitates a smooth transition of responsibility and adheres to legal obligations post-vehicle sale.
The Request for Texas Motor Vehicle Information is directly tied to the MV-440, often accompanying or following its submission. This form specifically asks for detailed historical data about a vehicle, related to its title, registration, and any incidents. It underscores the state’s commitment to providing comprehensive vehicle histories to authorized requestors, aiding in various legitimate endeavours like law enforcement and market research.
The Power of Attorney for Motor Vehicle Only form intersects with the MV-440's purpose by authorizing third-party requests on behalf of the vehicle owner. This document grants the rights to perform actions such as requesting vehicle records, similar to those outlined in the MV-440. Both forms adhere to the legal framework allowing for representation in vehicle-related matters, facilitating processes that owners may not be able to handle personally.
The Application for Correction of Title form, while primarily used to amend errors, shares the fundamental requirement of the MV-440 for detailed vehicle information. Both documents ensure that the vehicle records held by the state are accurate and reflect the current status of the vehicle. Correcting title errors is a crucial step in maintaining a vehicle's legal standing, akin to the questioning and legitimizing of vehicle information through the MV-440 form.
When filling out the Texas MV-440 form, here are 10 things you should and shouldn't do to ensure the process is completed correctly and efficiently:
There is a misconception that the Texas MV-440 form is only for vehicle owners to update their address information. However, this form serves a broader purpose, allowing individuals to request motor vehicle information for lawful and legitimate reasons outlined on the form, adhering to specific guidelines and restrictions under the Driver Privacy Protection Acts.
Some believe that anyone can request information using the Texas MV-440 form without providing identification. In reality, a copy of current government-issued photo identification must accompany the application to verify the identity of the requester, ensuring that only authorized individuals gain access to sensitive personal information.
It is often mistakenly thought that the Texas MV-440 form grants unrestricted access to vehicle records. Contrary to this belief, access is limited to purposes permitted under the law, including governmental uses, motor vehicle safety and theft, market research, child support enforcement, and specific business activities, among others. Requesters must clearly indicate their authority or provide written authorization from the vehicle owner or other entities as required.
Another common misconception is that personal information obtained through the Texas MV-440 form can be used for marketing, solicitation, or survey purposes. The form explicitly states that personal information requested is for a lawful and legitimate purpose and must not be used for marketing, solicitation, or survey purposes, reinforcing privacy protections.
Many believe that filling out the Texas MV-440 form and obtaining vehicle information is a straightforward process without legal consequences. However, the form clearly warns that falsifying information on this application is a third-degree felony, highlighting the legal responsibilities and potential consequences of misuse.
There is a misconception that information obtained from the MV-440 form can be freely shared or sold. In truth, the resale and redisclosure of motor vehicle record information are strictly regulated, and any authorized recipient who resells or rediscloses the records must maintain transaction records for at least five years, with specific requirements for subsequent use of the information.
Some people mistakenly believe that obtaining and using vehicle information through the Texas MV-440 form is an anonymous process. Applicants are required to provide detailed information about themselves, including their name, contact information, and a signature. Additionally, violations related to the misuse of vehicle records can lead to prosecution, ensuring accountability.
Filling out and using the Texas MV-440 form, Request for Motor Vehicle Information, requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the guidelines set forth by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and the Driver Privacy Protection Act. Here are key takeaways to guide you through the process:
Following these guidelines ensures that your use of the Texas MV-440 form is compliant with legal requirements, safeguarding personal information and preventing misuse.,
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