Doing Business > Rules, permits and licenses > Dealer and motor vehicle businesses > Tips and tools for dealers >

Privacy for prior owner

Due to changes in privacy laws, some dealers have been reluctant to show prior vehicle owner name and address to prospective purchasers. However, Trans 139.04(6)(a)2 requires a dealer to give the name and address of the prior owner to a prospective purchaser on request. Also, Trans 154 requires a dealer to show a prospective purchaser the vehicle title, which includes prior owner name and address. Dealers do not violate privacy laws by complying with these state requirements. However, dealers should provide the information to prospective purchasers only, and should limit the information to name and address as shown on the title.

Questions about the content of this page:
Division of Motor Vehicles, Dealer Section, dealers.dmv@dot.state.wi.us
Last modified: February 4, 2009