Due to limited resources many states use speed enforcement cameras—also known as photo or video enforcement—to take a digital photograph or video of a vehicle (and its license plate) that violates the speed limit. The use of speed enforcement cameras to issue speeding tickets or citations (mailed to the driver) has been controversial, with claims that it violates Constitutional rights.

Laws vary from state to state and in some states speed enforcement cameras are a permitted enforcement tool; in some states they are prohibited; and in some states they are prohibited unless permitted by a local ordinance (city or town).

To measure the speed of a moving vehicle and issue speeding tickets by photo enforcement, police departments generally use photo or video radar that relies on radio signals and the Doppler Effect or photo and video LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology that relies on lasers rather than radio waves. These devices require training on their proper use and regular calibration to be accurate.

In North Carolina, the use of speed enforcement cameras, also known as photo or video enforcement, is subject to specific regulations. As of the knowledge cutoff date in 2023, North Carolina law permits the use of speed cameras only in limited circumstances. For example, they are allowed in school zones and in highway work zones under certain conditions. The state requires that signs be posted to inform drivers of the presence of these cameras. The revenue generated from these cameras is often designated for specific purposes, such as education or public safety. It's important to note that the legality and use of speed enforcement cameras can be a contentious issue, and regulations may change. Therefore, it's advisable for individuals to stay informed about the current laws in their specific localities within North Carolina. If a driver receives a citation from a speed camera in North Carolina, it is typically processed similarly to other traffic violations, and the registered owner of the vehicle is mailed the citation. However, there are legal considerations and potential defenses that may be applicable, so consulting with an attorney may be beneficial for those who receive such citations.