If you drive in California and have ever considered using a radar detector, you might be wondering: Is it legal? The short answer: Yes — with some important exceptions. While radar detectors are allowed for most drivers in California, there are strict rules you need to follow to avoid fines or other penalties.

In this guide, we’ll break down California’s radar detector laws, where and how they can be used, and the differences between radar detectors and jammers.

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The Quick Answer: Radar Detectors Are Legal in California

In California, passenger vehicles can legally use radar detectors. However, there are key limitations:

• Illegal for commercial vehicles: Any vehicle over 10,000 pounds GVWR cannot use a radar detector.
  
  
• Illegal to mount on the windshield: California law prohibits mounting anything that obstructs the driver’s view, including radar detectors on the windshield.
  
  
• Radar jammers are prohibited: Devices that actively interfere with police radar or laser are illegal under federal law and California state law.
  
  

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California Vehicle Code on Radar Detectors

Radar detectors themselves are not banned under California state law for private passenger vehicles, but California Vehicle Code Section 26708 makes it unlawful to attach anything to the windshield that blocks the driver’s vision. That means your radar detector must be mounted on the dashboard or another location that doesn’t obstruct your view.

If you drive a commercial vehicle, California Vehicle Code Section 28150 prohibits the use of any device designed to detect police radar.

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Radar Detectors vs. Radar Jammers — Know the Difference

It’s important to distinguish between radar detectors and radar jammers:

• Radar Detector: A passive device that alerts you to the presence of police radar. Legal for most drivers in California.
  
  
• Radar Jammer: An active device that sends out signals to block or confuse police radar or lidar guns. Illegal in all 50 states under federal law.
  
  

Using a jammer in California can result in hefty fines and possible federal charges.

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Where You Can and Can’t Use Them in California

You can legally use a radar detector in California if:

• You are driving a passenger vehicle.
  
  
• The device is not mounted on the windshield.
  
  

You cannot use a radar detector in California if:

• You are driving a commercial vehicle over 10,000 pounds.
  
  
• The device is a radar or laser jammer.
  
  

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Tips for Staying Legal with a Radar Detector in California

• Mount it low: Place it on your dash or another legal mounting point.
  
  
• Avoid tinted areas: Heavy tint or metallic coatings can reduce performance.
  
  
• Know local rules: Some California cities may have additional enforcement practices.
  
  
• Stay within speed limits: A radar detector is not a free pass to speed.
  
  

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FAQs: Radar Detectors in California

Q: Can I mount my radar detector on my windshield in California?
A: No. California prohibits any obstruction to the driver’s view, including windshield-mounted devices.

Q: Are radar detectors illegal for commercial trucks?
A: Yes. Any commercial vehicle over 10,000 pounds is prohibited from using them.

Q: Are laser jammers legal in California?
A: No. Both radar and laser jammers are illegal under federal law and California law.

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Final Thoughts

Radar detectors are legal in California for most private drivers, but you must follow mounting rules and avoid illegal jamming devices. If you want to use one, keep it dashboard-mounted, know the local laws, and remember — safe driving is always your best defense.

If you’re shopping for a radar detector, make sure it’s high-quality, California-compliant, and installed legally to avoid fines and keep you informed on the road.

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