INF 70 Form – The INF 70 Form, officially known as the Request for Record Information, is the official California DMV document for requesting someone else’s driving records, vehicle registration records, or microfilm documents. This web-only PDF (REV. 2/2023) is the current version available for download directly from the DMV. Whether you need records for legal, safety, or business purposes, the INF 70 ensures compliance with the federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) and California Vehicle Code.
Below is a comprehensive, up-to-date guide based on official California DMV sources.
What Is the INF 70 Form?
The INF 70 Form is the California Department of Motor Vehicles’ official Request for Record Information form. It allows individuals, businesses, attorneys, or authorized entities to request:
- Driver’s License / Identification Card (DL/ID) records
- Vehicle / Vessel Registration (VR) records
- Copies of microfilm or hardcopy documents on file for a specific year
It is specifically designed for requesting records belonging to someone else (or microfilm copies). The form is marked “Web Only” because the DMV strongly recommends completing the fillable PDF online to avoid processing delays. Handwritten or typewriter versions may cause delays.
Important: This is not the form for your own records. Use the online driver or vehicle record request tools or Form INF 1125 for personal records.
Who Should Use the INF 70 Form?
You should use the INF 70 Form when you need records for another person or entity and have a permissible use under federal and state law. Common users include:
- Attorneys handling vehicle-related cases
- Businesses conducting due diligence or asset searches
- Lien holders or parties involved in vehicle sales/disposals
- Executors or representatives of estates
- Individuals or organizations with a lawful need for safety, theft, or legal purposes
The DMV will notify the record subject (the person whose information is requested) that their record was released, except for certain confidential details.
Permissible Uses for INF 70 Record Requests
Federal law (Driver’s Privacy Protection Act) and California Vehicle Code strictly limit who can receive motor vehicle records. You must certify a valid “permissible use” on the form, such as:
- Motor vehicle or driver safety and theft
- Matters of motor vehicle emissions, recalls, or research
- Court or administrative proceedings
- Insurance underwriting or claims
- Licensed private investigators or government agencies (in certain cases)
- Other uses explicitly allowed by law
Misuse can result in civil and criminal penalties, including fines up to $5,000 and/or imprisonment.
How to Download the INF 70 Form PDF (Official Link)?
Official Download Link (Current Version):
INF 70 – Request for Record Information (REV. 2/2023) Web Only PDF
This is the exact form hosted on the California DMV website. Always download from the official DMV portal to ensure you have the latest revision.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Complete the INF 70 Form?
- Open the fillable PDF using the link above (Adobe Reader or compatible PDF viewer recommended).
- Read the instructions carefully — especially the civil/criminal penalties and “Are You Using the Correct Form?” section.
- Section 1 – Requester Information: Enter your full legal name or business name, complete physical address (no P.O. Boxes), and daytime phone number.
- Choose Record Type:
- Check Driver’s License/ID Record (Section 2) OR
- Check Vehicle/Vessel Registration Record (Section 3)
Only one type per form.
- Provide identifying information for the record subject:
- For DL/ID: Name + DL/ID number or Name + Date of Birth
- For VR: License plate, VIN, or owner name + address (for asset searches)
- Select record type:
- Automated record ($5)
- Photocopy of documents/microfilm ($20 per copy/year)
- Optional: Request certification (no extra fee, mail-in only)
- Section 4 – Purpose of Request: Clearly state your permissible use.
- Sign and date both Part I and Part II.
- Mail both parts with payment (check or money order) to the DMV.
Tip: Completing the form online is preferred and helps prevent processing delays.
INF 70 Form Fees and Processing
- Automated Record: $5 per record
- Photocopy / Microfilm Documents: $20 per copy or per year specified
- No additional fee for certification (mail requests only)
Mail completed forms and payment to:
DMV Information Release Unit
MS G199
P.O. Box 944247
Sacramento, CA 94244-2470
Processing time is typically several weeks. The DMV does not provide expedited service for INF 70 requests.
INF 70 vs. INF 1125: Requesting Your Own Records
- INF 70 → For someone else’s records
- INF 1125 or online tools → For your own driver license or vehicle registration records (cheaper and faster options available online)
You can also request your own records in person at a DMV field office with proper ID.
Privacy and Legal Protections
The DMV is required by law (CVC §1810(b)) to notify the record subject that their information was released. Confidential details such as your residence address and phone number are protected and not disclosed to the subject. All requests must comply with DPPA and California privacy laws.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the INF 70 Form
Can I submit a handwritten INF 70 form?
The DMV prefers the web-only fillable version. Handwritten forms may cause delays.
Can I request records online instead of using INF 70?
No — online services are only for your own records. INF 70 is required for third-party requests.
How many records can I request on one form?
One DL/ID record or one VR record per INF 70 form (except asset searches, which return up to 8 vehicles).
Is the INF 70 form free?
No. Fees apply per record requested.
Where do I mail the INF 70 form?
DMV Information Release Unit, MS G199, P.O. Box 944247, Sacramento, CA 94244-2470.
Get Your INF 70 Form Today
The INF 70 Form remains the official, secure way to request California DMV driving or vehicle records for permissible purposes. Always use the latest official PDF from the DMV website:
Direct Download: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2024/10/INF-70-R2-2023-ASB-WWW.pdf
For the most current information, visit the official DMV page: Vehicle or Driver’s Records Requests.
Stay compliant, protect privacy, and obtain the records you need with the official California DMV INF 70 Form.