Vehicle Code § 20
False Names and False Statements to the DMV or CHP
Vehicle Code § 20 states, “It is unlawful to use a false or fictitious name, or to knowingly make any false statement or knowingly conceal any material fact in any document filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles or the Department of the California Highway Patrol.”
This statute prohibits anyone from
- Giving a fake name
- Giving untrue information, and
- Hiding information in any document that is filed with the DMV or CHP
What counts as a violation of Vehicle Code § 20?
- Using a false name on a driver’s license application.
- Lying about having a criminal record on a commercial driver’s license application, or intentionally leaving the question blank instead of answering it honestly.
- Providing a fake social security number on a DMV form.
What is the punishment for a violation of Vehicle Code § 20?
A violation of Vehicle Code § 20 is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in prison , fine of up to $1,000, or both.
What defenses are available for a violation of Vehicle Code § 20?
The best defense is lack of intent to defraud. This simply means that you made a mistake.
For example, a newlywed who accidentally provides a CHP officer with her maiden name has made a mistake – she forgot to use her married name. In doing so, she accidentally provided the officer incorrect information. This is not a violation of Vehicle Code § 20 because it was not a “knowingly” false statement.
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