California Vehicle Code Blog

The Difference Between an Infraction and a Misdemeanor in California

Posted on August 19, 2022 | Category: Vehicle Code

Infractions vs Misdemeanors: What's the Difference?Watch this video on YouTube Infractions and misdemeanors are both offenses in the California criminal justice system. The main difference between the two is in their severity and in how they get punished. Infractions are less serious offenses than misdemeanors. They are punishable by a maximum fine of $250 (though certain …

How do I get my license back after suspension in California?

Posted on February 25, 2022 | Category: Drivers License, DUI, Vehicle Code

A woman proudly showing off her reinstated driver's license.

California drivers with a suspended license have to wait for the suspension period to end. Then they have to apply for reinstatement with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This includes paying license reinstatement fees and proving proof of adequate car insurance. Some drivers may also have to provide evidence of completing certain courses, like traffic …

California Financial Responsibility Law – How Does it Work?

Posted on February 24, 2022 | Category: Laws, Useful information, Vehicle Code

A police officer asking a driver for his license and insurance.

In California, the term “financial responsibility law” refers to the requirement that motorists carry proof of their ability to cover damages they may inflict in the event of a traffic accident. This usually means proof of auto insurance. The law is largely found in Vehicle Code Sections 1600-16078 VC and is sometimes referred to as “California’s Compulsory …

Is it illegal to drive without your license in your possession?

Posted on February 3, 2022 | Category: Vehicle Code

Although this difference seems obvious, people often mistake the non-criminal infraction of driving without a license in one’s possession for the more serious misdemeanor offense of driving without a valid license. 1. What is the law under Vehicle Code 12951? California Vehicle Code 12951 penalizes driving without a license in your possession.1 As previously stated, …

Can a driver’s license be suspended in California for unpaid tickets?

Posted on February 11, 2021 | Category: Drivers License, Laws, Useful information, Vehicle Code

No. Per Assembly Bill 103, the state cannot suspend a person’s driver’s license for unpaid traffic tickets. Note, however, that the DMV can suspend a person’s license for failing to show up in court for a ticket. Vehicle Code 40509.5 VC is the California statute that allows the state to put a hold on a …

Does Proposition 47 apply to the crime of Vehicle Code 10851 joyriding?

Posted on January 4, 2016 | Category: Vehicle Code

At the moment, California courts haven’t yet made up their minds about the answer to this question. Proposition 47, passed by California voters in 2014, provided that theft of property worth less than nine hundred fifty dollars ($950) would be a California misdemeanor for most defendants. (Prior to Prop 47’s passage, all theft of motor …

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