California has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in the country. Drivers caught using their phones without a hands-free device risk steep fines, while those who run red lights may face even harsher penalties. But what happens if these two scenarios collide? If you are photographed by a red light camera while talking on your phone, could you be hit with two separate tickets—one for the red light violation and one for the cell phone use? Cell Phone Ticket Laws This article explores California’s current cell phone laws, how red light camera enforcement works, and whether both violations can be issued at the same time. It will also highlight fine amounts, enforcement trends, and best practices for drivers who want to stay safe—and avoid costly tickets.
California’s Cell Phone Laws: What Drivers Need to Know
California first banned handheld cell phone use while driving in 2008, and the law has been tightened over the years. As of 2025:
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Handheld phone use while driving is illegal. You may only use your phone in a hands-free manner, such as through Bluetooth, speakerphone, or a mounted device.
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Texting while driving is also prohibited. Even holding the phone in your hand while operating your vehicle can result in a ticket.
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Exceptions exist for emergency calls (911) or if you are operating an authorized emergency vehicle.
Penalties for Cell Phone Tickets in California
The fines have increased significantly:
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First offense: Base fine of $20, but with court fees and surcharges, the total is typically over $150.
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Second and subsequent offenses: Base fine of $50, but the total is usually $250 or more once penalties are added.
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Points on license: Since July 1, 2021, a second offense within 36 months adds one point to your driving record, which can raise insurance premiums.
The state has steadily increased fines to discourage distracted driving. Today, getting caught on your phone while driving is not just inconvenient—it’s expensive.
How Red Light Cameras Work in California
Red light cameras are automated enforcement systems placed at high-risk intersections. Here’s how they function:
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Sensors detect movement: When a vehicle enters an intersection after the light has turned red, ground sensors or radar are triggered.
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Camera captures images: A photo is taken of the license plate, and in most cases, a short video clip is also recorded.
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Review by law enforcement: Trained officers or contractors review the footage to determine whether a violation occurred.
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Citation mailed: If approved, a Notice of Violation is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle within about 5–10 business days.
What Red Light Cameras Do Not Do
Although these systems can take high-resolution images, they are not authorized to enforce cell phone violations in California. The state’s vehicle code section allowing mailed red light citations does not include handheld phone use or texting while driving.
Can You Be Ticketed for Both?
Here’s the crucial answer:
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Red light cameras only issue citations for red light violations. They are not programmed—or legally authorized—to issue tickets for cell phone use.
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You cannot receive a mailed ticket for cell phone use from a red light camera.
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However, if a police officer observes both violations, you can be cited for both. An officer can pull you over and write two separate tickets: one for running the red light and another for using your phone.
So, if you’re caught only by the automated camera, you will face only the red light ticket, not a cell phone violation. But if an officer witnesses the event, expect double penalties.
Fines and Costs: How Much Could It Add Up To?
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Red light camera ticket: In California, running a red light carries a base fine of $100, but after fees and assessments, the total can exceed $490.
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Cell phone ticket: On top of that, a handheld phone violation can add another $150–$250 depending on your record.
In total, being stopped by an officer for both violations could cost over $700, not including insurance hikes or traffic school fees.
Enforcement Trends in California
California has expanded both automated enforcement and distracted driving crackdowns:
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Distracted driving crackdowns: CHP (California Highway Patrol) regularly conducts enforcement campaigns in April (“Distracted Driving Awareness Month”) and during high-travel holidays.
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More cameras: Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sacramento have expanded or reactivated red light camera programs after years of controversy.
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Technology upgrades: While California does not yet allow cameras to ticket for cell phone use, some states and countries are piloting AI-based cameras that can detect phone use and seat belt compliance.
This raises the question: could California adopt these advanced systems in the future?
Future Possibility: Cameras Catching Phone Use
Globally, traffic enforcement technology is evolving:
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Australia has rolled out phone detection cameras that automatically ticket drivers caught on their phones.
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The UK and some European countries are piloting similar AI-powered enforcement systems.
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In the U.S., some states (like New York) have discussed adding distracted driving detection technology to existing camera programs.
California has not approved such use—yet. But given the state’s history of pioneering traffic safety laws, it could be only a matter of time before red light cameras expand their enforcement scope.
Tips to Avoid Costly Tickets
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Always use hands-free devices: Invest in a dashboard mount or Bluetooth system.
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Don’t take chances at intersections: Even a brief glance at your phone can coincide with a camera flash.
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Know your rights: If you get a red light camera ticket, confirm the citation includes clear photos and matches your vehicle.
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Stay updated: California’s traffic laws evolve regularly. What isn’t ticketable today could be enforced by cameras in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I get two tickets if I’m on the phone and run a red light? A: Only if a police officer pulls you over. Red light cameras issue citations only for red light violations.
Q: How long does it take to receive a red light camera ticket? A: Typically 5–10 business days.
Q: Does a cell phone ticket add points to my record? A: Yes, after a second offense within 36 months, you will receive one point on your driving record.
Q: Can red light cameras detect texting or phone use? A: No, not in California. They are authorized only to ticket for red light violations.
Q: How much is a cell phone ticket compared to a red light ticket? A: A cell phone ticket costs around $150–$250, while a red light ticket usually costs $490 or more.
Conclusion
If you see the dreaded flash of a red light camera while holding your phone, don’t panic—you won’t be double-ticketed. California law currently restricts automated enforcement to red light violations only. However, if an officer sees you, you could face two separate citations totaling hundreds of dollars. The best way to avoid trouble is simple: obey traffic signals and keep your hands off your phone. With California’s fines and penalties climbing higher each year, distracted driving is just not worth the risk.