Bakersfield drivers face a challenging landscape of automated enforcement this year.
The city continues to use cameras to monitor intersections for safety and revenue. However, a new state law, AB 1085, Stefani. License plates: Obstruction or alteration adds a layer of complexity for vehicle owners.
Under this 2026 update, license plate obstruction is no longer a minor equipment concern or a mere “fix-it” ticket. The law specifically targets any product that interferes with the electronic reading of a plate. This restriction includes tinted covers, reflective sprays, or frames that block the plate's characters.
The goal is to ensure red-light cameras can accurately identify vehicles for citation. CHP and local police in Kern County are actively looking for these illegal modifications. A violation for an obscured plate can result in a significant base fine of $250 plus assessments.
Understanding License Plate Obstruction Penalties
The penalties for license plate obstruction have intensified to protect automated enforcement programs. Manufacturing or selling these devices in California now carries a $1,000 fine per item. For the driver, using these products remains a serious infraction that invites police contact.
Many drivers use these covers to avoid being captured by red-light cameras. However, modern systems are designed to detect such interference and trigger an immediate review. If an officer cannot read your plate due to a tint or shade, you will likely be pulled over and receive a ticket.
Keeping your plate clear is the only way to remain compliant with the 2026 code. License plate obstruction includes any alteration to the original reflective coating of the plate.
Ensure your vehicle's registration plate is fully visible to avoid unnecessary stops in Bakersfield.
Active Red-Light Cameras in Bakersfield
Bakersfield currently monitors ten major intersections with high-volume photo enforcement.
Drivers should be particularly cautious when traveling through these areas. The three intersections with the most tickets from active red-light cameras in the city include:
- Old River Road and Ming Avenue: This southwest location has historically recorded over 4,300 citations in a single year.
- Real Road and Ming Avenue: Situated near the Valley Plaza Mall, this intersection consistently ranks among the top three for violations.
- Stockdale Highway and Coffee Road: This site frequently records over 5,000 violations annually and is the city's most cited spot.
A red-light camera ticket in Kern County typically costs around $490. Even if you choose to attend Traffic Violator School (TVS), if eligible, your total costs will approach $600. This expense includes the full fine, court administrative fees, and the cost of tuition.
Eligibility for Traffic Violator School
Attending TVS is a common way for drivers to keep a conviction confidential.
However, you must meet specific eligibility requirements to use this option. Generally, you cannot have attended traffic school for another violation within the last 18 months.
The 18-month period is calculated from the date of the first violation to the date of the current one. You must also hold a valid driver's license and not have been speeding more than 25 mph over the limit (a judge can give permission for faster speeds). Furthermore, citations involving drugs, alcohol, or commercial vehicles are usually ineligible for TVS.
It is vital to complete the course before the court-ordered deadline. If the driver does not finish on time, their guilty plea becomes a permanent part of their public record. This failure often leads to a significant increase in insurance premiums for several years.
Drivers with red-light photo-enforced tickets should consult a Kern County traffic attorney before paying the fine or making a statement to police or court officials.
Consult Bigger & Harman About Red-Light Camera or License Plate Obstruction Tickets
If you have been accused of a red-light camera violation or license plate obstruction in Bakersfield, CA, call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 367-8232 (se habla Español).
We’ve helped California drivers resolve over 30,000 traffic tickets during the past decade. Contact us to learn more about what we can do for you.
We offer a free consultation to get started—use our secure network contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: Does a red-light camera ticket count as a point on my record?
A: Yes, a paid fine or conviction for a red-light violation results in one point on your DMV record. Whether the ticket is issued for a bumper stop or a red-light camera, the DMV assesses one NOTS point for a paid fine or conviction. You might be eligible to attend traffic school to keep this point hidden from insurance companies. Ask a Bakersfield traffic attorney.
Q: Can I use a clear plastic cover on my license plate?
A: No, even clear covers can cause glare that interferes with red-light cameras. California law requires plates to be clearly visible without any covering. Do not tamper with CA license plates to avoid expensive fines and increased insurance premiums.
Q: Where do I resolve red-light camera tickets from the intersection of Real Road and Ming Avenue?
A: These traffic tickets are handled at the Bakersfield Courthouse in Kern County. Most traffic matters for the city are resolved through this court system.
References:
The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.
AB 1085, Stefani. License plates: obstruction or alteration.
CA VC Section 21453, Offenses Relating to Traffic Devices.