A California driver learned that comic-book tricks don’t fly on public roads after officers discovered a device that could make a license plate vanish at the push of a button.
The unusual modification was found during a traffic stop involving a black BMW, according to the California Highway Patrol, which spotlighted the case in a playful social media post.
“Holy hidden licenses plate, Batman!” the agency wrote.
CHP said an officer noticed what appeared to be a gadget straight out of a superhero movie attached to the vehicle’s license plate.
With a single button press, the plate disappears from view, preventing it from being read by anyone, including bridge toll cameras.
“If you aren’t wearing a cape driving the Batmobile, it might be time to rethink your modifications,” the post added.
The CHP’s post quickly drew reactions from social media users, many of whom joked about the device.
Logan Lewis commented, “Avoiding tolls with this might actually be genius.”
William Chow wrote, “Where do I get one? Asking for a friend.”
Ryan Hilderbrand added, “I bet he uses that more than the blinkers.”
While the gadget sparked laughs online, California law takes the issue seriously.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 5201, both front and rear license plates must remain clearly visible and readable at all times.
The state also strengthened enforcement through Assembly Bill 1085, which specifically prohibits the use, sale, or manufacture of products designed to obstruct or interfere with license plate readability.
Authorities say physical and electronic plate-hiding devices are commonly used by drivers involved in illegal street racing, sideshows, robberies and grand thefts because concealed plates make it harder for witnesses and law enforcement to identify vehicles tied to crimes.
The devices can also be used to dodge California’s pay-by-plate toll systems on bridges, express lanes and FasTrak routes, allowing drivers to avoid paying fees and shifting costs onto law enforcement agencies and taxpayers.