License Plate Obstructed or Not Visible
A CVC 5202 citation means your license plate was obscured, covered, or otherwise not clearly readable. Common causes include dirty plates, plate frames covering letters or the state name, tinted plate covers, or trailers blocking the rear plate. Removing the obstruction and getting certified resolves this.
Correction Window
The deadline is printed on your citation. Act before that date to keep the corrected fine at $25.
Fine After Correction
The base fine is $25 after the obstruction is removed and the correction is certified. Without correction, the total can exceed several hundred dollars.
Who Can Certify
Any law enforcement officer can certify the correction once the plate is fully visible and unobstructed.
Missing the deadline significantly increases the fine and converts this into a standard infraction. Address it before the date on your ticket.
Step by Step
How to Correct This Violation
- 1
Identify what is causing the obstruction: a plate frame, a tinted cover, dirt buildup, or something else.
- 2
Remove or correct the obstruction. Clean the plate thoroughly or remove the offending frame or cover.
- 3
Confirm that all characters, the state name, and the registration sticker are fully readable.
- 4
Have a law enforcement officer inspect and sign the certificate of correction on your citation.
- 5
Submit the signed citation and $25 fee to the court before your deadline.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are plate frames always illegal?
- No. Plate frames are permitted as long as they do not cover any part of the plate text, numbers, registration sticker, or the state name at the top of the plate. Frames that obscure any portion of the plate can result in a CVC 5202 citation.
- What about clear plastic plate covers?
- Clear tinted or colored plate covers are not permitted in California even if they appear transparent. Remove any cover before seeking sign-off.
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.
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