CHP calls on citizens to help enforce proper vehicle registration.

These words, followed by a swift jab to the shoulder of a less observant friend, have been a staple of road trips for years. However, while adding a bit of much needed variety to California’s famous traffic jams, these oddball plates can also deny the state much needed funds in lost registration fees.

CHP calls on citizens to help enforce proper vehicle registration.

These words, followed by a swift jab to the shoulder of a less observant friend, have been a staple of road trips for years. However, while adding a bit of much needed variety to California’s famous traffic jams, these oddball plates can also deny the state much needed funds in lost registration fees.

California Highway Patrol (CHP) Commissioner Joe Farrow explains that “every year, the state loses millions of dollars in revenue from California Residents who unlawfully register their vehicles in other states or countries.” Issues like this hold special importance in light of the state’s current fiscal crisis, as Governor Schwarzenegger last week announced the need to address a $24 billion shortfall. 

That’s why the CHP enlists the public through its “CHEATERS” (Californians Help Eliminate All The Evasive Registration Scofflaws) program to help identify improperly registered vehicles.  Since its inception in 2004, the program has helped the state collect over $4 million in lawful, but otherwise elusive, revenue.

California law states that vehicle registration must be changed to reflect new employment or residency within 20 days.

Citizens wishing to help can report suspicious vehicles anonymously at www.chp.ca.gov by providing the offending plate’s state and number, the date, time, and location it was observed, and the make, model, color, and description of the vehicle. Reports will be crosschecked with state records to establish whether or not the vehicle is just visiting, and if necessary, the vehicle’s owner will receive a letter instructing them to obtain proper registration.