Running away in a car

[Guest]

Hi. I want to run away and I have a plan to do so. I have a car, but legally it’s not “mine”- my parents own it, technically. If i run away in it, will the police look for the license plate numbers? And could i get in trouble for “stealing” a car? I plan to leave the state, if that matters.

[ccsmod15]

Thanks for reaching out to NRS,
It seems like you are considering leaving home and trying to come up with a safe plan. Reaching out for help and clarification makes sense and we are happy to help and support you as best we can.
We aren’t legal experts but yes police would likely look for the plates on the car if you left with it, and as far as we know yes that would technically be stealing the car. Although it would be up to your parents who own the car as to pressing charges. Although crossing state lines may make the charges mandatory or bring in other charges for bringing stolen property to another state.
Either way leaving before 18 means your parents could file a runaway report and have police bring you back home. Those you stay with could also be at risk of a harboring a runaway charge.
Hopefully this information is helpful for you. If you have more questions, or want to go over other possible options to safely get out of your situation please reach out to our online chat at 1800runaway.org or call our hotline at 1-800-RUNAWAY.