You might have seen black and white or colorful California plates on cars. But a California Highway Officer told KNX News’ Karen Adams those plates are illegal.
“A lot of people didn't know that,” CHP Officer Jed Cato said.”I'm finding when I make my stops, a lot of people that I talk to are unaware that that's not actually allowed.”
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So, where are these plates coming from? Officer Cato said you can buy them anywhere.
“Some people are making them themselves. Some people are getting them on Amazon shops, Etsy shops, [or] a friend who does artwork,” he said.
He added that the only legal black plates are the DMV’s vintage black and yellow ones or any other specialized plate from the agency.
“Now, some people can opt when they register their vehicles to have specialized license plates like the kind of 1960s vintage black with yellow where California is spelled out in block letters,” he said. “The numbering system is also different, but also you can do breast cancer awareness or support the National Parks.”
If you are caught driving with an altered plate, you will get a citation; however, Officer Cato said it is a “correctable citation.”
“They'll be issued an exit ticket and given some time and a chance to either replace the plate if they can't undo the changes that were made,” he said. “If they can't undo it, they'll be given some time to get the plate restored back to its original condition and get the ticket signed off at the local highway patrol station. “
If you don’t fix it, you will get a ticket and have to pay a fine.
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