It has come to our attention that some individuals are attempting to sell fraudulent parking permits to students. The only legitimate means to purchase a valid UC Santa Cruz parking permit are those outlined on the TAPS website. Awareness of the permit purchase process and TAPS policies is essential to avoid scams.
- All student permits require proof of ownership for each license plate added to the permit, either via registration or title.
- Vehicles not owned by the student or an immediate family member will be removed from the permit, and permits will be subject to suspension if removed vehicles are re-added.
- TAPS will never accept payment over the phone. Payments are accepted through the secure parking permit portal (ucsc.aimsparking.com) or in person at the TAPS Sales Office only.
- Long-term student permits (academic year R, C, and quarterly R) may only be paid via student account. TAPS does not accept credit cards for these permit types.
- TAPS will never contact permit holders about their account or permits via social media or any other means except via email or phone.
- The names and emails of all TAPS Sales Office representatives can be found in the TAPS Staff Directory. These are the only employees who will contact permit holders regarding their accounts or permits.
Additionally, we have learned that parties are requesting citation and license plate information via a QR code posted around campus and potentially other means. It is strongly recommended that you do not provide any information to anonymous parties, particularly regarding your license plate and citations you may have received, as it may compromise your personal identification information.
If you believe someone is attempting to sell you a fraudulent permit or falsely posing as a TAPS employee, you can report the incident to TAPS or UCPD.
If you have any questions, please email taps@ucsc.edu.
