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

What Is Administrative Review? (CVC 22350 Speed Camera Citations)

Administrative review is the process by which you can contest a speed camera citation under CVC 22350 (Basic Speed Law) 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 do not need to appear in person. Instead, you submit a written request explaining why you believe the citation should be dismissed or modified, along with any supporting evidence.

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. With administrative review, a designated reviewer examines your written submission and the citation evidence without a hearing.

• No in-person appearance is required for administrative review.
• The review is conducted based on written submissions, not oral arguments.
• A designated reviewer, rather than a judge, evaluates the evidence.
• 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 to identify the deadline and submission instructions.
2. Write a clear statement explaining why you are contesting the citation.
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 (typically mail or online portal).
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 applicable, a completed affidavit of nonliability if you were not the driver.
• Copies of any relevant records, such as vehicle registration or repair records.

If you were not the driver, learn about the affidavit of nonliability. Affidavit of Nonliability in California →

Possible Outcomes of Administrative Review

After the reviewing authority evaluates your submission, you will receive a written decision. The possible outcomes of administrative review generally include the following.

• Citation dismissed: The reviewer finds in your favor and the citation is cancelled. You owe nothing.
• Fine reduced: The reviewer may reduce the fine amount based on the circumstances you presented.
• Citation upheld: The reviewer finds that the citation was properly issued and the fine stands.

If your administrative review is not successful, you may have additional options available to you depending on the city and the specifics of your case. Some jurisdictions allow a second level of review. Consider consulting with a licensed attorney to understand what options may be available after an unfavorable administrative review decision.

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