- Different states and municipalities have different licensing requirements for all kinds of businesses. Those wishing to provide immobilization services should check with their local authorities to make sure they fulfill all requirements. For example, Florida issues Class "R" Recovery Agency licenses to those wishing to immobilize the cars of people who have been convicted of a DUI.
- No one wants their car to be immobilized, but paying an immobilization company can be making the best of a bad situation. Instead of leaving a car in an impound lot where it may be damaged or broken into, an offender can leave his car in the driveway during the court-ordered punishment. Many immobilization companies will travel to the customer's home to apply or remove steering wheel locks. Each state has different laws with respect to DUI punishments, but Florida mandates that a convicted driver's car must be immobilized for 10 days upon a first offense, for 30 days upon a second offense within five years and for 90 days upon a third offense within 10 years.
- Many businesses secure surety bonds, a financial guarantee that a company will follow applicable laws. In Denver, Colorado, car immobilization companies are compelled to obtain licenses and to have a $1,000 surety bond. Many companies also make it clear that they are "bonded" to assure customers of the professional quality of their employees and the service they provide.
- You may want to consult with an attorney before starting your own car immobilization service to ensure you address all the legal requirements to start such a business in your state and city. An attorney will be able to help you secure licenses and make sure your paperwork is in order with the authorities.
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