The Insurance Suspension
Veh. Code 16028 — evidence on demand, no stop for that alone, and a dismissal on proof brought to the clerk
At all times. All drivers and all owners of a motor vehicle are at all times to be able to establish financial responsibility, and to carry in the vehicle evidence of the form of financial responsibility in effect for the vehicle.
On demand, and not as a reason to stop. On a peace officer's demand when a notice to appear is issued for another violation, other than one of the stopping, standing and parking rules, or at the scene of an accident, the driver provides evidence of financial responsibility in effect at the time, and may do so on a mobile electronic device. A peace officer does not stop a vehicle for the sole purpose of determining whether it is being driven in violation of this duty.
The phone. When the evidence is shown on a mobile electronic device, the officer views only the evidence and is prohibited from viewing any other content on the device. The person presenting the device assumes all liability for damage to it.
Proof brought to the clerk. A person cited may appear before the clerk of the court, or submit by mail, written evidence of financial responsibility showing compliance at the time the notice to appear was issued. On the clerk's receipt of that evidence, further proceedings on the citation are dismissed.
| Conviction | Fine |
|---|---|
| ConvictionFirst conviction | Fine$100 to $200, plus penalty assessments |
| ConvictionSubsequent conviction within three years of a prior | Fine$200 to $500, plus penalty assessments |
The vehicle, and the fine. The court may, for good cause, order the impoundment of the vehicle for which the owner could not produce evidence. The fine may be reduced or waived based on the defendant's ability to pay, and may be paid within a limited time or in installments.
How much coverage the law requires, and anything more that reinstatement takes, are set out in other sections that are not on this page. Whether a particular charge applies is a question for a licensed California attorney.
Sources for this section (3)
- Veh. Code 16020 — Financial responsibility at all times, and evidence of it in the vehicle
- Veh. Code 16028 — Evidence of financial responsibility on demand
- Veh. Code 16029 — Fines for no evidence of financial responsibility, and impoundment
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed California attorney.