Obtaining a Release for an Impounded Vehicle 

If your vehicle has been taken into custody by the City of Salem, you will need to obtain a release in person at the Salem Police Department. Please bring the following items: 

1. Proof of Ownership or Right to Possess the Vehicle
   • Photo identification: If you are the registered owner of the vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
   • DMV Title Transfer Form: This must be stamped by the DMV. A bill of sale or signed titles will not be accepted without DMV title transfer documentation.
   • Authorization for Release: If the owner of the vehicle is unable to come in person, an Authorization for Release form must be completed, authorizing another individual to obtain the vehicle release. 
2. Valid Driver License
   • If you do not possess a current driver license, bring someone with you who has a valid license to drive the car.
3. Proof of Insurance
   • Provide an insurance card or policy paperwork that shows the towed vehicle is covered under the policy. The dates listed on the documentation must include the date you're picking up the vehicle.
   • You may use your smartphone or tablet to provide proof of insurance at the police station.
   • A bill or invoice from your insurance company will not be accepted as proof of insurance.
4. Administrative Fee: A $150 administrative fee must be paid. This fee may be waived for the following reasons:
   • Traffic Hazard 
   • Recovered stolen vehicle
   • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check 
   • Criminal investigation
   • Vehicle left on property after an arrest

Once you have obtained the release form, you may retrieve your vehicle from the tow company. Please be aware that additional fees may be due to the tow company for the tow bill and storage. Additional fees may also apply if retrieval occurs after the tow company's normal business hours. 

Tow Hearing

If you think your vehicle was wrongly towed, you can ask for a tow hearing. Just be sure to make your request within five business days of the impound. To request a hearing: 

1. Obtain a Request for Hearing form from the Salem Police Department or Salem Municipal Court.
2. Complete the form.
3. Return the form to:
   Salem Municipal Court
   2850 Broadway Street NE • Salem, Oregon 97301

Forms Available 

• Authorization for Release Form: This form gives permission for someone other than the owner to pick up the vehicle. Available in English or Spanish.
• DMV Title Transfer Form: You can only get this form from the DMV. You need to present it at the police station to prove you own the vehicle if it is not yet registered in your name. 
• Vehicle Release Form: The form is only available at the Salem Police station and must be completed to withdraw your vehicle from the tow company.
• Tow Hearing Form: Use this form to request a hearing if you believe your vehicle was wrongly towed. The form is available at the police station or the Salem Municipal Court.