Kern County stretches from Bakersfield through the Tehachapi Mountains and into the Mojave Desert, with consistent CHP enforcement on SR-99, I-5 (Tejon Pass), and SR-58. Bakersfield sees high volumes of citations from both local agencies and the CHP Bakersfield area command. The TBWD process is widely used here as a cost-effective alternative to hiring a traffic attorney.
TicketClear prepares your TBWD documents. You file directly with the court.
Kern County has no active automated camera enforcement program as of 2025. All traffic citations here are issued by sworn officers in person.
Officer-issued red light and speeding tickets are still eligible for Trial by Written Declaration.
| Violation | Base fine | With penalty assessments | DMV points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (1–15 mph over) | ~$100 | $238–$360 | 1 point |
| Red light | ~$100 | $490–$590 | 1 point |
| Cell phone (handheld) | ~$20–50 | $162–$285 | 1 point |
Fine amounts are estimates based on the California Judicial Council bail schedule. Actual totals vary by court, surcharges, and case specifics.
A Trial by Written Declaration (TBWD) lets you fight your ticket entirely in writing under California Vehicle Code §40902. No court date, no lawyer required.
If you need more time to respond to your traffic citation in Kern County, you can request a deadline extension (also called a continuance). Most courts grant one extension of up to 30 days as a matter of course.
Start in 10 minutes. No court date. No attorney fees.
TicketClear is a document preparation service, not a law firm. We prepare TBWD documents at your direction. We do not provide legal advice.
Most California citations expire in 60 days. Check yours in 2 minutes. No payment required to see if you qualify.
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