A California resident was able to resolve a vehicle registration issue after contacting the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Fraud Hotline. The individual discovered that his vehicle, which he tried to register in California, was also titled in Arizona.
According to ADOT, the complaint was received on September 2 when the owner attempted to renew his registration in California but learned that the vehicle was now registered in Arizona. The owner provided documentation proving current ownership and use of the vehicle in California, including previous registration and title records.
Detectives from ADOT’s Office of Inspector General investigated and found that a vehicle with the same Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) had been registered in Arizona on February 21, 2024. Further investigation revealed that the San Diego Police Department had reported the vehicle stolen on July 3, 2022.
The investigation showed that a duplicate California title bearing the victim’s name and signature was used to title the stolen vehicle in Arizona. The victim stated he never sold or transferred ownership of the car, did not sign any documents related to a duplicate title, and did not recognize the address used on those documents.
On September 10, 2025, ADOT detectives canceled the fraudulent Arizona title. This action allowed the rightful owner to register his actual vehicle in California. The stolen vehicle was seized and handed over to the Department of Public Safety so it could be returned to its owner.
Lieutenant Jason Henderson with ADOT’s Office of Inspector General said: “We are very pleased to hear that the victim was happy with our efforts to help get his vehicle properly registered in his home state. It is also a great feeling to help get a stolen vehicle off Arizona streets and back to the rightful owner. We encourage anyone who suspects fraudulent activity against their driver license or ID card, vehicle registration or title to report it immediately.”
ADOT operates a 24-hour Fraud Hotline for those who suspect fraud or criminal activity involving driver licenses or titles. Reports can be made by calling 877-712-2370, emailing [email protected], or filing online at azdot.gov/incident-report.
The Office of Inspector General within ADOT’s Enforcement and Compliance Division investigates cases involving driver license fraud, VIN inspections, as well as issues related to both licensed and unlicensed dealerships. The office also supports other law enforcement agencies at various levels.
