How to Recover Seized Vehicles

Vehicles can be seized for a variety of reasons. Police seize vehicles for driving without a license, possession of illegal substances, drunken driving or other suspected crimes. Once seized, the owner of the vehicle has a limited time to reclaim and recover the vehicle from the police.

Things You'll Need

  • Letter from recovery agent or seizure form
  • Valid insurance certificate
  • Valid drivers license
  • Vehicle registration and proof of ownership
  • Money for fees
  • Obtain the seizure letter or form. Police give a form for the seizure at the time the vehicle is taken or a letter is sent by the recovery agent informing the owner that the vehicle was seized.

  • Locate the valid car insurance, drivers license and vehicle registration. Set these with the letter and bring them for recovering the vehicle.

  • Withdraw cash from an ATM to pay the fees. Towing fees and storage fees are paid by the individual that had their car seized. Some locations might allow payment through credit or debit card, but some might not. The easiest way to pay the fees is with cash, which is accepted at any location.

  • Pick up the vehicle as soon as possible. The police keep the vehicle only for a limited time after seizing. Pay the fees and show the documents to claim the vehicle.