Vehicle Tracking Laws
Real-time vehicle GPS Trackers have different laws that vary from state to state. Each state has a different law, so it is important to check with a lawyer to make sure that placement of the GPS won’t have any legal issues.
General laws
- It is generally legal to use a GPS Tracker if you or the organization own the vehicle that is being tracked, or if you are the owner of the asset.
- It is also usually legal if you are tracking your child that is under the age of 18.
- Usually, it is legal to track a car or asset for legal repossession in the event of a loan or default.
- It is usually illegal to use a tracking device if you are not the owner of the vehicle or if you are tracking a boyfriend or girlfriend in their own car.
Laws in the state of Florida
The state of Florida has tracking laws that can be different from other states.
Florida established a new statute that makes it illegal for somebody to place a tracking device unless you are the owner of the vehicle.
The exception to this law is a parent who is the sole guardian of a child, or if both parents consent to place a tracking device to monitor their child.
Another exception to this law is a person with a disability. This can include an Alzheimer’s patient or somebody suffering from dementia.
Using a GPS Tracker illegally in Florida is a second-degree misdemeanor. This can lead to an excessive fine or up to six months of jail time.
It is very important to verify your state laws prior to placing the tracking device. Each state has unique laws so even though it may be completely legal in one state, it can potentially lead to jail time in another state.
The general rule of thumb is that if the vehicle is in completely in your name, you should be permitted to place a GPS Tracking device to monitor the vehicle. However, if you are placing the GPS Tracker on somebody else’s vehicle, it is most likely illegal and can result in a fine or possibly even jail time.
Again, these laws are state specific so it is very important to consult a lawyer prior to purchasing a tracking device. The laws are also constantly changing in every specific state in the U.S., and it is important to check your state laws before purchasing and activating any GPS Tracker.