Television Screen Visible to Driver
Operating a vehicle with a television receiver or screen in a location visible to the driver while the vehicle is in motion.
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 Television Screen Visible to Driver ticket?
CVC 27602 prohibits operating a vehicle if a television receiver or video monitor is installed so the screen is visible to the driver while moving. Rear-seat entertainment systems are legal; screens in the driver's sightline are not.
Fines of $162–$285, no DMV points. Relocate or shield the screen and get the ticket signed off.
No DMV points — no insurance impact.
What the Law Says
What the Officer Must Prove
- 1A television or video screen was installed or placed in your vehicle
- 2The screen was visible to the driver while operating the vehicle in motion
- 3It was not being used solely for navigation
How Drivers Get This Ticket
Tablet mounted on dashboard streams video visible while driving.
Cited; must relocate screen out of driver's sightline.
Rear headrest monitors playing a movie.
Legal — screens not visible from driver's position.
Common Defenses for Television Screen Visible to Driver
These are the defense arguments that appear most often in successful Trial by Written Declarations for this violation.
Screen was not in driver's field of view
CVC 27602 prohibits a television receiver or similar screen visible to the driver while the vehicle is moving. If the screen was positioned so it was not visible from the driver's seat, or was a navigation device used for its permitted purposes, challenge the citation.
Navigation/GPS display exception
Displays used solely for navigation are generally exempt. Challenge whether the device was being used for navigation purposes.
How to Address This in Your Declaration
- ✓Photos showing screen position relative to driver's seat
- ✓Manufacturer documentation showing screen is passenger-only
⚠️ What NOT to Do
- ✗Mounting tablets at eye level on the dashboard
- ✗Streaming video to any screen in the driver's sightline
Get a personalized summary
Optionally describe your situation — road conditions, time of day, officer position — and get a tailored document preparation overview.
Frequently Asked Questions About Television Screen Visible to Driver
Is a GPS navigation screen legal?▼
Yes. CVC 27602 has a specific exception for GPS navigation displays.
Are rear entertainment systems legal?▼
Yes, as long as screens are not visible from the driver's normal position.
Ready to prepare your defense documents?
Upload your citation and TicketClear generates a personalized Trial by Written Declaration based on your specific situation. Starting at $49.99.
Check if my ticket qualifiesTakes 2 minutes. No payment required to check.
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.