ALPR (Automatic License Plate Reading) are special cameras used by police to help find and track vehicles. 

Here's how they work:

• Cameras are placed on police cars, traffic lights, or at the side of the road
• As cars drive by, the cameras take pictures of license plates
• A computer reads the numbers and letters on each plate and checks the numbers against a list of vehicles that may be stolen, involved in a crime, or be linked to missing people

The Santa Clara Police Department (SCPD) use this tool for official police work only.  Policies are in place to limit how long records are kept and who can see the records.

• Santa Clara Police Department Policy
• Transparency Document