AB 645 Administrative Review Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

What Is Administrative Review?

Administrative review is the process by which you can contest a speed camera citation issued under California’s AB 645 program. Unlike traditional traffic tickets, which are handled through the court system, speed camera violations are reviewed through an administrative process managed by the issuing city or its designated agency.

The administrative review process is designed to be more accessible and less formal than a court hearing. You can request the free initial review by telephone, in writing, electronically or in person within 30 calendar days of the mailing date (Vehicle Code 22427(a)). Follow the method on your notice. Adding a written explanation and evidence is optional.

Understanding how administrative review works can help you prepare a stronger case if you decide to contest your speed camera citation. The process has specific requirements and deadlines that are important to follow.

How Administrative Review Differs from Court

The administrative review process for AB 645 citations is distinct from the traditional traffic court process in several ways. In traffic court, a judge presides over your case, you may appear in person, and the citing officer may also be present. In the initial review, the issuing agency looks at the notice again, along with anything you send (Vehicle Code 22427(a)). If it does not cancel the notice, you can then request an administrative hearing before an independent examiner (Vehicle Code 22427(b)-(c)).

• You can request the initial review by telephone, in writing, electronically or in person (Vehicle Code 22427(a)).
• There is no charge for the initial review (Vehicle Code 22427(a)).
• The issuing agency, rather than a judge, does the initial review; a later hearing is before an independent examiner (Vehicle Code 22427(c)(4)).
• The process is generally faster than going through traffic court.
• The rules of evidence are less formal than in a court proceeding.

Because the process is administrative rather than judicial, some of the procedural protections available in court may not apply in the same way. Consider consulting with a licensed attorney if you have questions about how the administrative review process affects your rights.

Steps to Request Administrative Review

Requesting administrative review involves following the instructions provided on your notice of violation. Each participating city may have slightly different procedures, but the general steps are consistent across the program.

1. Read your notice of violation carefully. The request for an initial review is due within 30 calendar days of the notice’s mailing date (Vehicle Code 22427(a)).
2. If you want, write a short statement explaining why you are contesting the citation. This is optional.
3. Gather any evidence that supports your position, such as photos, maintenance records, or witness statements.
4. Complete any required forms provided with your notice or available on the city’s website.
5. Submit your review request by the method specified on your notice; the law allows requests by telephone, in writing, electronically or in person (Vehicle Code 22427(a)).
6. Keep copies of everything you submit for your records.

What to Include in Your Review Request

A well-prepared review request clearly explains your reason for contesting the citation and includes relevant supporting evidence. The reviewer will evaluate your submission alongside the camera evidence, so it is important to be specific and factual in your statement.

• Your citation number and personal information as it appears on the notice.
• A clear, factual written statement explaining why the citation should be dismissed.
• Any photographs or documentation that support your position.
• If the vehicle was rented, leased or stolen, the affidavit of nonliability from your notice, returned with the rental or lease agreement or the police report as the notice instructs.
• Copies of any relevant records, such as vehicle registration or repair records.

If the vehicle was rented, leased or stolen, learn about the affidavit of nonliability. Affidavit of Nonliability in California →

Possible Outcomes of Administrative Review

The agency must mail the result within 60 days of receiving your request (Vehicle Code 22427(a)). There are two possible results.

• Notice cancelled: the agency finds that the violation did not occur, or that extenuating circumstances make cancelling the notice appropriate in the interest of justice (Vehicle Code 22427(a)). You owe nothing.
• Request denied: the agency mails a reason for the denial and instructions for requesting an administrative hearing (Vehicle Code 22427(a)).

A low-income reduction is a separate request under Vehicle Code 22429.

If your initial review is not successful, AB 645 gives you two more steps. Within 21 calendar days after the review results are mailed, you can request an administrative hearing before an independent examiner, in writing, by video, or in person; you must pay the penalty first unless the city accepts proof that you cannot pay (Vehicle Code 22427(b)). Within 30 days after the hearing decision, you can appeal to the superior court, where the case is heard again from the start; the filing fee is $25 and is refunded if you win (Vehicle Code 22428).

Learn more about what AB 645 is and how the program works. What Is AB 645? →