California Vehicle Code 22100(a) requires that right turns be made from as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, and the turn itself must finish in the nearest right lane. VC 22100(b) has the corresponding rule for left turns. Officers issue VC 22100(a) citations when a driver swings wide before a right turn, turns from the wrong lane, or finishes the turn in an incorrect lane. The violation carries 1 DMV point and a base fine of $238.
Both the approach for a right-hand turn and a right-hand turn shall be made as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except that a right-hand turn may be made from a second lane from the curb where a highway has been designed or posted to indicate that right-hand turns may be made from two lanes or, in the case of a vehicle too large to safely make the turn as described in this subdivision, as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
(b)
The approach for a left turn shall be made as close as practicable to the left-hand edge of the extreme left-hand lane or portion of the roadway lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel of such vehicle, and, after entering the intersection, the left turn shall be made so as to leave the intersection in a lane lawfully available to traffic moving in such direction upon the roadway being entered.
Enacted by Stats. 1959, Ch. 3. (Original enactment.)
Fine & Penalty Amounts
Estimated totals include all mandatory state and county penalty assessments. Actual amounts vary by county court.
Violation Range
Est. Total with Assessments
Notes
Improper right turn
~$490
Standard 1-point moving violation fine schedule.
The base fine of $238 applies to a standard VC 22100(a) infraction. After California's mandatory penalty assessments, the total typically reaches approximately $490. Exact amounts vary by county.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions drivers search for after receiving this citation.
California Vehicle Code 22100(a) requires that both the approach to a right turn and the turn itself be made as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway. After completing the turn, you must enter the nearest right lane. Swinging wide on approach or ending up in a middle lane after the turn are common ways this violation is cited.
Yes. A conviction adds 1 point to your California DMV driving record, remaining for 36 months from the violation date.
The base fine is $238. After California's mandatory penalty assessments, the total typically reaches approximately $490. The exact total depends on the county.
Yes. Defenses include arguing the turn was made as close as practicable to the curb given road conditions, that you were in a vehicle too large to make the tight turn safely (a statutory exception), or that posted signage authorized the turn from an alternate lane. A Trial by Written Declaration allows you to contest without a court appearance.
Also frequently cited with
California drivers who receive this citation often have questions about these related violations.
