Can Someone Else Pick Up My Towed Car?

Stuck at work, out of town, or without a ride to the tow yard? The good news is yes, someone else can pick up your towed car for you, as long as you give them the right authorization. Here is how to do it so the lot actually releases the vehicle.

The short answer

Tow yards and impound lots will release a vehicle to someone other than the registered owner, but only with a notarized authorization letter from the owner. Because handing over a car to the wrong person is a real liability, facilities require proof, in writing and notarized, that you authorized that specific person.

What your authorized person needs

• A notarized authorization letter from you, naming them and describing the vehicle (year, make, model, VIN, plate)
• A copy of your photo ID
• Their own valid photo ID
• Proof of ownership (your title or registration) and payment for the fees

How to set it up quickly

Download our free vehicle release authorization letter, fill in your details and the person you are authorizing, and notarize it online in minutes, from anywhere. Then send it with them, along with a copy of your ID. That is what turns a “sorry, we can only release it to the owner” into a smooth pickup.

Frequently asked questions

Does the letter really have to be notarized?

In almost all cases, yes. A plain letter is easy to forge, so lots require notarization to confirm you truly authorized the release.

What if the car is not registered to me?

The registered owner has to authorize it. If that is someone else, they are the one who signs and notarizes the letter.

What else should we prepare?

See what to bring to pick up a towed car and the full impound retrieval steps.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Requirements vary by facility; confirm with the specific tow yard or impound lot before sending someone.

Towed in NYC? See how to find your towed car in NYC and the Bronx tow pound guide.

More: Car got towed? The full guide · What it costs to get it out of impound