Window Obstruction — Tinted Glass or Objects
Operating a vehicle with material, objects, or tinting on the windshield or front side windows that obstructs or reduces the driver's clear view of the highway.
This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.
What is a Window Obstruction — Tinted Glass or Objects ticket?
CVC 26708(a) prohibits objects that obstruct the driver's view through the windshield or side windows. Common violations include hanging items from the rearview mirror, GPS mounts at eye level, and excessive stickers.
No DMV points, correctable fix-it ticket ($25–$197). Remove the obstruction and get a sign-off.
No DMV points — no insurance impact.
What the Law Says
No person shall drive a motor vehicle with any object or material placed, displayed, installed, affixed, or applied in or upon the vehicle that obstructs or reduces the driver's clear view.
What the Officer Must Prove
- 1An object was placed on/in the vehicle
- 2The object obstructed the driver's view
How Drivers Get This Ticket
Fuzzy dice hanging from mirror blocking forward view.
Remove items, get sign-off.
Phone mount in center of windshield at eye level.
Must relocate to lower left (7") or lower right (5") corner.
Common Defenses for Window Obstruction — Tinted Glass or Objects
These are the defense arguments that appear most often in successful Trial by Written Declarations for this violation.
Object did not obstruct view
Small items that don't impair visibility may not meet the threshold. Photos showing minimal obstruction support this.
Statutory exception applies
CVC 26708(b) lists GPS mount positions in lower windshield corners as permitted.
How to Address This in Your Declaration
- ✓Photos of item's position showing minimal obstruction
- ✓Measurements showing GPS mount complies with 26708(b)
⚠️ What NOT to Do
- ✗Hanging items from rearview mirror
- ✗Mounting phones at eye level in center windshield
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Obstruction — Tinted Glass or Objects
Where can I mount my phone in California?▼
Lower left corner (within 7" of bottom) or lower right (within 5") per CVC 26708(b)(13-15), or on the dashboard.
Is a parking placard a violation?▼
Yes — disabled placards must be removed while driving. Hanging one from the mirror while driving violates 26708(a).
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Related Violations
This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.