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Crime Prevention Programs

Beat Auto Theft

Facts you should know about BAT

The Beat Auto Theft program is funded in part through a grant from the Illinois Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Council, and is operated by the Illinois Secretary of State’s Department of Police, in consultation with the Council and the Illinois State Police.

What is Beat Auto Theft (BAT)?

Simply, BAT is an auto theft prevention program that alerts police that your vehicle is normally NOT driven between the hours of 1am and 5am.

How does BAT work?

You complete and sign a BAT Registration Form, available from Aurora Police. You are then sent a reflective BAT decal to be placed in the rear windshield (lower corner) on the driver’s side. If the police see your vehicle/decal out between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., they have permission to stop the vehicle and question the driver.

What does BAT cost?

Registration and decal costs $5.00 per vehicle. This is a one-time fee for as long as you own your vehicle. The fee helps fund the BAT program.

What if I want to register more than one vehicle?

Each vehicle requires a separate registration form and $5.00 fee. Each vehicle in the BAT program receives its own decal and identification number.

What if a friend borrows the vehicle?

You must alert her/him that the vehicle might be stopped if driven during the BAT period; between 1am and 5am.

What if I need to use the vehicle and am stopped?

You’ll be asked to produce a valid driver's license and vehicle registration card to verify ownership.

How do I withdraw from the BAT program?

It’s easy! Send a completed BAT cancellation form and completely remove the BAT decal. You must do this when you sell your vehicle or otherwise transfer ownership.

Is the BAT program successful?

Although new to Illinois, BAT programs are having an impact in New York, Texas, Virginia, and other areas. It should be successful in Illinois, too!

Is BAT the best vehicle theft prevention program?

BAT can have an impact - but it’s just one way to reduce the risk of your vehicle being stolen. You should also Park Smart - lock your car, take the keys, close all windows and park in a well-lit area.

What if I have more questions about BAT?

Feel free to call the Illinois Secretary of State, Department of Police, toll free at 1- (800) 608-0561. Or write care of the Beat Auto Theft program, Illinois Secretary of State, Department of Police, 324 West Monroe, Springfield, Illinois 62701.