What Is AB 645? California's Speed Camera Law Explained

This page explains the law itself. If you have a speed camera notice and want to know what to do about it, start with the speed camera ticket page.

Got a notice in the mail? California Speed Camera Tickets: What to Do →

What Is AB 645?

Assembly Bill 645 (AB 645) is a California law that authorized a pilot program allowing select cities to use automated speed cameras to enforce speed limits. Signed into law in 2023, the program represents a significant shift in how California approaches traffic safety enforcement. Rather than relying solely on officers to pull over speeding drivers, participating cities may now use camera technology to capture images of vehicles traveling above posted speed limits.

The stated goal of AB 645 is to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries, particularly in school zones and high-injury corridors. Supporters of the program argue that automated enforcement can cover more ground than traditional patrols, while opponents raise concerns about privacy and the potential for errors in the citation process.

It is important to understand that AB 645 citations are treated differently from traditional officer-issued speeding tickets. The penalties, contest procedures, and potential consequences all follow a distinct set of rules established by the legislation.

Which Cities Participate in the AB 645 Pilot Program?

AB 645 names six cities: Los Angeles, San Jose, Oakland, Glendale, Long Beach and San Francisco (Vehicle Code 22425(a)(2)).

Each city has its own implementation timeline and camera placement strategy, so the specific locations where cameras are active may vary. Not all of the six cities have activated their programs at the same time.

How Does the AB 645 Speed Camera Program Work?

Speed cameras authorized under AB 645 use a combination of radar or lidar technology and high-resolution photography to detect and document vehicles exceeding posted speed limits. When a vehicle is detected traveling above the threshold, the system captures images of the vehicle, including its license plate.

After the camera system records a potential violation, the images and data are reviewed before a notice is sent. The notice is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle at the address on file with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You generally have a set period of time to respond to the notice after it is mailed.

1. The speed camera detects a vehicle exceeding the posted speed limit.
2. The system captures images of the vehicle and its license plate.
3. The data is reviewed for accuracy before processing.
4. A notice of violation is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle.
5. The registered owner has a specified period to respond, pay, or contest the notice.

How Do Speed Camera Tickets Differ from Traditional Speeding Tickets?

AB 645 speed camera citations differ from traditional officer-issued speeding tickets in several important ways. Understanding these differences may help you decide how to respond if you receive a notice.

• Speed camera violations under AB 645 do not result in points on your DMV driving record.
• The fines for speed camera violations are generally lower than those for officer-issued speeding tickets.
• Speed camera notices are handled through an administrative review process rather than through the traditional traffic court system.
• The initial notices issued under AB 645 may be warnings rather than fines, depending on the city and the stage of the program.
• The notice is issued to the registered owner, and the law does not list someone else driving as an exception. The affidavit of nonliability that comes with the notice covers a vehicle rented or leased from a rental company or through a personal vehicle sharing program and a stolen vehicle.

Want to understand the fine amounts for speed camera violations? Speed Camera Fines in California →

What Should You Do If You Receive a Speed Camera Notice?

If you receive a notice of violation from a speed camera program, it is important to read it carefully. The notice should include the date, time, and location of the alleged violation, as well as images of your vehicle. It will also include information about the fine amount and your options for responding.

You generally have several options when you receive a speed camera notice. You may pay the fine, request an administrative review to contest the notice, or, if the vehicle was rented, leased or stolen at the time, return the affidavit of nonliability that came with the notice. Each option has its own deadline, so it is important to act promptly.

Many drivers find it helpful to review the images included with the notice to confirm the vehicle and location. If you believe the notice was issued in error or you have grounds to contest it, you may wish to consider the administrative review process. Consulting with a licensed attorney can help you understand your specific options.

Learn about the administrative review process for AB 645 citations. AB 645 Administrative Review Process →

Use our free calculator to estimate your total fine for a traditional speeding ticket. California Traffic Ticket Calculator →

Upload your citation — check eligibility free. Upload Your Citation →