Speeders beware! L.A. traffic is already frustrating, but now drivers will need to be extra careful when they’re running late on I-10. The City of Los Angeles will roll out speed safety cameras beginning in 2026. Assembly Bill 645 was signed into law in October 2023, but its impact is just beginning to reach California drivers.
What is AB-645?
AB-645 is a “speed safety system pilot program.” It aims to deter reckless driving by permitting select California cities to install cameras that capture speeders and ticket them. The six cities chosen for the pilot program are Los Angeles, Oakland, San Jose, Long Beach, Glendale, and San Francisco.
When will the speed camera pilot programs begin?
In March of this year, San Francisco became the first California city to install speed enforcement cameras under the new law. Aiming to curb serious injuries and fatalities, the city deployed 33 cameras in high-risk areas, including school zones, parks, senior centers, and busy commercial areas.
How much will the speeding fines cost?
The new speed cameras will automatically ticket the registered owner of any car going more than 11 miles an hour over the speed limit. The faster you’re going, the higher the fine: $50 for 11–15 mph over, $100 for 16–25 mph, $200 for 26–99 mph, and $500 if you’re driving 100 mph or more.
However, the good news is that for the first 60 days after the cameras are installed, cities are required to only issue warning notices for violations.
Where will the cameras be located?
While the the locations of the speed cameras around Los Angeles have yet to be announced, the new cameras won’t come as a surprise to drivers. The bill also requires the participating cities “to engage in a public information campaign at least 30 days before implementation of the program.”
Plus, cities taking part in the pilot program will have to submit a report on the speed camera system. The report will look at how the cameras are affecting street safety and the local economy in the neighborhoods where they’re used.
You can read more about Assembly Bill 645 here.
