INF 1161E Form – The INF 1161E Form (officially titled Attorney’s Information Request – Vehicle/Vessel Related Incidents Only) is a specialized California DMV document that licensed attorneys use to request confidential residence address information from driver license/identification card (DL/ID) or vehicle/vessel registration (VR) records. It is strictly for civil or criminal matters directly involving the use of a motor vehicle or vessel, as authorized under California Vehicle Code §1808.22.
This official PDF form helps attorneys obtain critical contact details needed to represent clients effectively while complying with strict privacy protections. Below is the most up-to-date, comprehensive guide based on the current INF 1161E (REV 5/2021) form available directly from the California DMV.
What Is the INF 1161E Form?
The INF 1161E is a two-part form (Part I: Record Request and Part II: Notice to Record Subject) designed exclusively for state bar-licensed attorneys. It allows attorneys to request residence address information from DMV records when representing a client in a case that directly involves a motor vehicle or vessel incident.
Key facts:
- Revision date: 5/2021 (still current as of 2026)
- Form type: PDF fillable (online completion preferred)
- Purpose: Vehicle/vessel-related attorney information requests only
- Not for general public use or non-vehicle matters
Purpose of the INF 1161E Attorney Information Request
Attorneys use the INF 1161E to legally access residence addresses that are otherwise protected under California privacy laws. The form is required when the requested information is necessary to represent a client in a pending, to-be-filed, or under-investigation civil or criminal action that directly involves the use of a motor vehicle or vessel.
The DMV notifies every individual whose residence address is released within 10 days of processing the request, adding an extra layer of transparency and protection.
Who Can Use the INF 1161E Form?
Only state bar licensed attorneys in active status may use this form. The DMV verifies the attorney’s State Bar number before processing any request. Non-attorneys or attorneys requesting information for any other purpose are prohibited by law from using INF 1161E.
This form is not for:
- General public record requests (use INF 70 instead)
- Asset searches (use INF 70)
- Non-vehicle/vessel related cases
How to Download the Official INF 1161E PDF?
For the most current and secure version, download directly from the California DMV website:
Official Download Link:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2024/12/INF-1161E-R5-2021-ASB-WWW.pdf
Always use the official DMV source to ensure you have the latest version and avoid outdated or altered forms.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the INF 1161E Form
- Section 1 – Attorney’s Information
Provide your full name, State Bar number, daytime phone, and complete business address. - Choose Only One Record Type (Section 1 checkbox)
- Driver License/Identification Card (DL/ID) → Complete Section 2 only
- Vehicle/Vessel Registration (VR) → Complete Section 3 only
- Section 2 or 3 – Record Details
- DL/ID: Individual’s name + DL/ID number or date of birth
- VR: CA plate/CF number or VIN/HIN
- Section 4 – Purpose of Request
Briefly describe the vehicle/vessel-related incident (date, location) and include case number or names of involved parties (including your client). - Section 5 – Certification & Signature
Sign under penalty of perjury, provide your DL/ID number, and date the form. - Section 6 – Mailing Label
Do not detach. Print and mail both Parts I and II together.
Pro Tip: Complete the PDF online, print, sign, and mail to avoid processing delays.
Fees for INF 1161E Requests
- Automated record: $5 per record
- Photocopy of documents: $20 per copy/year
- Certification of record: No extra charge
Payment must accompany the request (check or money order). Include the correct fee or your request will be delayed or rejected.
How to Submit the Completed INF 1161E Form?
Mail both Parts I and II to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Public Operations — G199
P.O. Box 944247
Sacramento, CA 94244-2470
Processing typically occurs at DMV headquarters. Allow time for verification of your State Bar status and mailing of the response plus the required notice to the record subject.
Important Legal Warnings and Penalties
Willful unauthorized disclosure or false representation to obtain DMV information is a misdemeanor punishable by up to $5,000 fine and/or one year in county jail. Attorneys must use the address only for the stated case and destroy it if no action is filed within a reasonable time. Selling the information is strictly prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions About INF 1161E
Can I request my own records with this form?
No. This form is for third-party records needed for client representation in vehicle/vessel cases.
Is the form still current in 2026?
Yes. The official revision remains INF 1161E (REV 5/2021), and the DMV continues to list it as the required form.
What if I need records for a non-vehicle case?
Use the general Request for Record Information (INF 70) instead.
Why Attorneys Rely on the Official INF 1161E Form?
The INF 1161E provides a secure, legally compliant way for California attorneys to obtain essential residence address information while protecting privacy rights. By following the official instructions and using the direct DMV PDF link, attorneys ensure faster processing and full compliance with Vehicle Code §1808.22.
Download the latest INF 1161E PDF here and handle your vehicle-related client matters efficiently and legally. For the most accurate results, always refer to the official California DMV website for any future updates.