License & Permit
DMV Commercial Requester Bond
A DMV commercial requester bond is the bond California requires before a business can open a commercial requester account to pull driver and vehicle records from the DMV.
- Required by
- California Department of Motor Vehicles
- Bond amount
- $50,000 (California Vehicle Code 1810.2)
What this bond guarantees
The bond is payable to the People of the State of California. It promises the business will follow the DMV rules on requesting, using, and protecting record information, including confidential addresses. A claim can follow if the business misuses or improperly releases DMV information.
Who needs it
- Insurance companies and agencies that pull driving records
- Employers and background screening firms
- Towing, parking, and vehicle service businesses that need owner records
- Data and information resellers with a legitimate business need
What the underwriter looks at
- Owners' credit
- Company financial statements
- Type of records requested and how they are used
- Data security practices
Requirements vary by state and by who asks for the bond. Send us the request you received and we will confirm exactly what it calls for.
Common questions
How much is the bond?
California sets it at $50,000 under Vehicle Code 1810.2. The DMV also charges a $250 filing fee to open the account.
How long does the bond last?
The DMV form is continuous. It runs as long as the account is authorized, until the surety cancels it under California's bond cancellation rules.
Do other states have a similar bond?
Some states set conditions for bulk or commercial access to motor vehicle records. Requirements differ, so check the state agency that holds the records.