(KSWB/KUSI) – Do you think your car license plate can use a little talent? Maybe a sleek tint cover or a reflective finish to throw those paid road cameras? Think about it again. In California, being as simple as adding a slightly personalized style to a license plate can be a misdemeanor.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 4464 (CVC 4464), license plates have one job. It looks completely and unmistakably. When the vehicle owner tries to be creative with these front and back plates, it can put things in a bit of danger legally.
The law explained
CVC 4464 is simple – do not change the license plate.
Specifically, it is illegal to slap a cover with a clear or tint that affects your vision. Under this Act, we use reflective sprays or materials that throw away tolls and traffic cameras. There is a vinyl wrap that is often called “skins” and paint is not permitted either.
Additionally, adding fake numbers or stickers containing decals to a plate or registration sticker is against the law. The same applies to blocking parts of the plates in frames, towing times, bike racks, or even dry mud from off-road adventures.
Essentially, if the police officer or red light camera cannot be clearly read, that’s a violation.
Penalties for violators
Violating CVC 4464 is a misdemeanor punished by a fine of $500 or more, California officials said. Additionally, catching it with a modified or blocked license plate will tow the vehicle, confiscate the plate and allow you to return to the DMV.
He warned officials at the San Diego Police Station. “The license plate is a California property. It’s not your plate that changes.”
Some drivers whose plates have been changed are not necessarily the case with some drivers who get off with warning.
How to legally customize plates
For those who pay tribute to wanting a personalized license plate, there are several legal options.
Special Interest License Plate
Drivers can obtain personalized or special interest plates via DMV by completing license plate applications of special interest.
“Special interest license plates available in automobiles, commercial vehicles, trailers and motorcycles provide a unique opportunity to support the cause of concern, but special license plates allow you to recognize services, achievements, licenses, status, historical significance and a variety of occupations,” DMV said online.
Some examples of license plates of special interest to choose include breast cancer awareness, national park reserves, castration, castration pets, and advocates for environment. Others nod to veteran organizations, firefighters, California farming and more.
Be prepared to pay for this customization. Special interest plates can cost between $50 and $103 on your first application. Then there is a renewal fee of between $40 and $83 a year, depending on the plate selected. These fees will be added to the standard registration fee.
Digital license plate
Another option for Golden State Drivers is the digital license plate. This was legalized in Congress Bill No. 984. The only provider of these plates is an AA technology company called Reviver. Drivers can be selected from battery powered options or hardwired versions.
These types of plates can be personalized with text, fonts and can also be switched from bright mode to dark mode. You can also display emergency messages such as an amber alert in case of aidation. Additionally, the digital license plate incorporates tracking technology to help you find stolen vehicles.
This option is very expensive. The cost may vary when you purchase from a local dealer or certified reseller, but the Reviver website offers a complete line of $899 plates. There is also a subscription option that costs around $40 a month.
Whichever customization option you choose (if any) the license plate is more than a vehicle accessory and is a legal identification tag. And in California, it needs to be completely visible and unchanged.
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