Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR)
This page provides information on the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) program, including policies in place intended to ensure that the Department’s capture, use, retention, and dissemination of information obtained complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
ALPR technology is a valuable law enforcement tool that when used appropriately, greatly enhances public safety. As with any law enforcement capability, its use must remain consistent with the United States Constitution, including the Fourth Amendment, and other applicable statutory authorities.
The Department’s Privacy Policy is updated as of April 22, 2026. As outlined in the policy (linked below), the Department’s ALPR data may be used for authorized public safety purposes, including: criminal investigations, identification and location of wanted persons, crime analysis, recovery of stolen vehicles, investigatory leads in subsequent investigations, and missing persons and lifesaving efforts. ALPR data may NOT be used for civil immigration enforcement.
Department ALPR Policy
The purpose of this privacy policy is to ensure that all conduct of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (Department) and its personnel related to the capture, use, retention, and dissemination of information obtained through the use of the Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) System complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.