Laws for who can rent specific videos follows the same guidelines set by the Motion Picture Association of America. These guidelines rate films based on their content, language, sexuality, violence and themes. Videos that are rated R cannot be rented by anyone under the age of 17 unless their parent or guardian is with them. NC-17 films and adult rated films cannot be rented to individuals who do not have proof of ID that they are over the age of 17 or are legal adults. If a video store does this and get caught, they can be ticketed and shut down.
The Video Privacy Protection Act that was passed in 1988 protects the video rental records of individuals, as the records could be damaging to a person's reputation. Video store records may not be disclosed unless the person gives their consent in writing for their records to be disclosed. Police officers can't receive copies of video store records without a valid warrant or court order. Civil remedies, including attorney's fees and fines of no less then $2500, will be given to the video store if they release a customer's records without the proper information. Video stores should also destroy rental records one year after the person's account is terminated.
Videos and DVDs are not allowed to be publicly exhibited outside of a person's home, unless for non-profit use or educational purposes. Every other form of public display of videos or DVDs must have a license. This covers not only movie theaters, but also bars, restaurants, and other semi-public places. Even non-profit screenings of these films must have their own license to be shown, though the licenses are easier to obtain.