Missing or Improperly Displayed License Plate
A CVC 5200 citation means one or both of your license plates were missing, not mounted correctly, or not displayed in the required position. California law requires most vehicles to display two plates. Correcting the display and getting certified resolves this violation.
Correction Window
The deadline is printed on your citation. Act before that date to qualify for the reduced correction fine.
Fine After Correction
The base fine is $25 after correction is certified. Without correction, surcharges can bring the total to several hundred dollars.
Who Can Certify
Certification can be obtained from any law enforcement officer once the plate or plates are properly mounted and displayed.
Missing the deadline results in a significantly higher fine and the citation converts to a standard infraction. Act before the date on your ticket.
Step by Step
How to Correct This Violation
- 1
Determine whether a plate is missing, broken, or simply not mounted correctly.
- 2
Obtain a replacement plate from the DMV if needed, or reattach and properly secure the existing plate.
- 3
Ensure the plate is mounted upright, clearly visible, and free from obstruction.
- 4
Have a law enforcement officer inspect and sign off on the correction.
- 5
Submit the signed citation and $25 fee to the court before your deadline.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- My vehicle only came with one plate. Is that a violation?
- Most California passenger vehicles are required to display two plates. If your vehicle was issued only one plate or you have a plate exemption, contact the DMV to verify your registration status before going for sign-off.
- Can any police officer sign off on this, or does it have to be the same officer who issued the ticket?
- Any law enforcement officer can sign off on a correctable violation certificate. It does not need to be the officer who issued the original citation.
This guide covers passenger vehicle violations. Drivers operating under a commercial license should consult their employer or a licensed attorney.
This guide provides general procedural information only. It is not legal advice. For questions specific to your citation, contact the court listed on your ticket.
Also have a moving violation on your ticket?
Speeding and moving violations follow a different process. TicketClear prepares your written declaration.
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