Notwithstanding Section 4000 of this code, and notwithstanding Section 38020 of this code, no fees or penalties imposed under this code or under Part 5 (commencing with Section 10701) of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code shall accrue due to operation of a vehicle in conjunction with the theft or embezzlement of the vehicle if the owner or legal owner submits a certificate in writing setting forth the circumstances of the theft or embezzlement and certifies that the theft or embezzlement of the vehicle has been reported pursuant to the provisions of this code.
Ca. Veh. Code § 4605