← California alcohol laws›Open Container Law

California Open Container Law (2026)

Restricted: California prohibits open containers of alcohol in a vehicle on a public road, for both the driver (VC 23222) and passengers (VC 23223); the trunk and unoccupied areas are exempt.

RestrictedVerified May 31, 2026
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California prohibits open containers of alcohol in a vehicle on a public road, for both the driver (VC 23222) and passengers (VC 23223); the trunk and unoccupied areas are exempt. There are exceptions for passengers in for-hire buses, limousines and certain recreational vehicles. A violation is an infraction of about $250.

Official source: leginfo.legislature.ca.gov →

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