GPS Tracking Laws In Tennessee

Published date: Last modified on: Ryan Horban
GPS Tracking Laws In Tennessee

GPS Tracking Laws in Tennessee: Are They Legal?

Summary

  • Legal Uses:

    • Vehicle Owners: Legal to install GPS trackers on their own vehicles.
    • Parents: Can track minor children’s vehicles for safety.
    • Theft Recovery: Legal to use trackers for stolen property.

  • Illegal Uses:

    • Without Consent: Installing a GPS tracker on someone else’s vehicle without consent is generally illegal.
    • Private Property: Placing trackers inside or on vehicles on private property without consent is prohibited.
  • Law Enforcement:
    • Requires a warrant for real-time GPS tracking in criminal investigations, following Supreme Court rulings.
  • Penalties:
    • Unauthorized GPS tracking can result in a Class C misdemeanor charge.

  • Recommendations:

    • Consult a lawyer for accurate legal guidance.
    • Hiring a private investigator might be a legal alternative for tracking suspected cheating partners.
  • Note: The article does not provide legal advice and encourages consulting legal professionals for specific situations.

    Are you thinking of buying a GPS device to track a vehicle in Tennessee? As a parent, business owner, or someone suspicious of a cheating spouse, it’s crucial to know the GPS tracking laws in Tennessee. Let’s explore the Tennessee code and the implications of using a hidden GPS tracker. Why? So you can legally purchase and use a hidden GPS tracker to find out the truth!

    Is It Illegal to Use a Hidden GPS Tracker in Tennessee?

    When it comes to tracking motor vehicles in Tennessee, it’s essential to understand the state’s laws. Buying tracking systems is legal in Tennessee, but the legality of electronic tracking depends on the specific circumstances. Let’s explore different methods of installing, concealing, or placing GPS trackers on cars and their legal implications.

    Electronic Tracking Of Motor Vehicles TN 39-13-606

    GPS tracking laws in TN are a little confusing so let’s start with a few basics when it comes to placingan electronic tracking device on a car without the consent of the owner of that automobile for the purpose of monitoring has s

    • It is not a violation of Tennessee GPS laws installing, concealing, or placing a vehicle tracker in or on an automobile by law enforcement for the purposes of a criminal investigation. However, as the Supreme Court ruled, Federal statutes require a search warrant.
    • Parents or legal guardians who are the owners (or lease) of the vehicle, can use a GPS device for the purpose of tracking a minor child.
    • If you are using a vehicle tracking system for the purpose of monitoring the location of stolen property/goods, or the potential theft of a personal automobile it is legal to use real time GPS trackers.

    [Acts 1997, ch. 339, § 1.]

    Penalty For Illegally Tracking A Car In TN

    Those in violation of GPS tracking laws in Tennessee can be charged with a Class C misdemeanor.

    Learn more about Tennessee Code Title 39 (Criminal Offenses) here: https://codes.findlaw.com/tn/title-39-criminal-offenses/

    Tracking A Vehicle Without The Consent Of A Spouse Or Partner

    In Tennessee, tracking someone’s vehicle without their consent isn’t straightforward, and it can lead to legal trouble. State law has strict guidelines, especially when it comes to placing GPS tracking devices on a car you don’t personally own. So, what should you know?

    If you’re the owner of the vehicle, you can legally use a GPS tracker for theft recovery, which can help avoid criminal charges. But if you’re considering tracking a partner you suspect is cheating, it’s crucial to know the risks. Installing a tracker on a vehicle you don’t own—or sneaking onto private property to place it—could land you in legal hot water.

    To stay within the law, consider discreetly placing a tracker on a vehicle while it's on public property, and only if you have the right to do so. Respecting privacy laws not only helps avoid issues but can also strengthen your defense if there’s any dispute.

    For those in Franklin, Nashville, or anywhere in Tennessee, a safer option may be to work with a licensed private investigator. They know the legal ins and outs of installing GPS devices in a way that respects privacy laws. Also, keep in mind that, in most states, catching a partner in an affair won’t necessarily impact custody arrangements.

    If you live in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chatanooga, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, or any other city in the great state of Tennessee and plan on using a GPS tracking device, it is critical that you consult with a law firm and speak with a licensed attorney so they can offer the most up-to-date information on Tennessee law.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes, if a person owns or leases a vehicle, they generally have the right to install a GPS tracking device. It’s essential, however, to consider the intent behind placing such a device. The purpose of tracking must not infringe upon another person’s reasonable expectation of privacy. For instance, if the occupant of the vehicle is unaware of the device, you might be breaching privacy laws. Consider consulting with a planning lawyer for legal information specific to your situation.

    Yes, law enforcement officers in Tennessee can use GPS tracking devices. However, they must obtain a warrant for real-time GPS tracking in criminal investigations, in line with Supreme Court rulings. Officers are required to follow both Tennessee state laws and federal regulations. In cities like Nashville, law enforcement agencies often use GPS technology as part of their investigative toolkit.

    Information in this article is not legal advice. If you want the most accurate and relevant information regarding Tennessee law we encourage you to consult with professionally licensed business lawyers, family law attorneys, or whomever the expert is with your application.

     

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