California Vehicle Code § 10851(a) VC – Unlawful Taking or Driving of a Vehicle (Joyriding)
Under California Vehicle Code 10851(a) VC, it is a criminal offense to take or drive someone else’s vehicle without their consent — even if you don’t intend to steal it permanently. This charge is commonly known as “joyriding”, and it applies whether the vehicle was taken for a quick ride around the block or driven













