CHP Crackdown Raises Concerns Among California Repossession Agents

“In many cases, trucks are being impounded even when agents are fully compliant with state requirements.”

California – May 30, 2025 – Over the past several months, repossession agents across the state of California have reported a noticeable uptick in traffic stops, citations, and even vehicle impoundments carried out by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). According to the California Association of Licensed Repossessors (CALR), these enforcement actions are increasingly targeting repossession professionals, often for infractions that do not apply to them under current state law.

Repossession agents, who operate under specific licensing and regulatory standards, are voicing concern that CHP officers may be unfamiliar with certain exemptions provided to them under California law. “We’ve seen a surge in our members getting pulled over without clear cause,” said a CALR spokesperson. “In many cases, trucks are being impounded even when agents are fully compliant with state requirements.”

Under California Vehicle Code Section 27907, repossession agencies licensed under the Business and Professions Code are explicitly permitted to display their Department of Consumer Affairs-issued license number in lieu of traditional vehicle markings like a name, address, or phone number. The code reads:

“A person licensed as a repossession agency pursuant to Chapter 11 (commencing with Section 7500) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, or a registrant of the agency, may use the license number issued to the agency by the Department of Consumer Affairs in lieu of a name, business address, and telephone number.”(Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 456, Sec. 16. Effective January 1, 2000.)

CALR is urging repossession agents to ensure their trucks are compliant with all required regulations, including visibly displaying their current Repossession Agency (RA) license number and valid Motor Carrier Permit (MCP) number. Additionally, it is strongly recommended that drivers carry a physical copy of the MCP permit and a printed version of Vehicle Code 27907 to present during traffic stops.

“We respect the work CHP does, but we also need fair treatment and informed enforcement,” the CALR spokesperson emphasized. “This law is clear, and our members have a right to do their jobs without undue interference.”

CALR will be meeting with CHP to increase awareness.

CALR helps its members get their vehicles out of impound through the help of our legislative liaison Joe Collins. If you need help, call, email home office or reach out to a CALR board member.

Michael Farhood