California Vehicle Code 24252(a) requires that all lighting equipment mandated by the Vehicle Code be maintained in good working order. This covers headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and other required lighting. A burned-out bulb, cracked lens, or malfunctioning light triggers a citation under this section. VC 24252 is typically a correctable "fix-it" infraction: repair the defect, get the fix certified, and the court can dismiss the case.
All lighting equipment of a required type installed on a vehicle shall at all times be maintained in good working order. Lamps shall be equipped with bulbs of the correct voltage rating for the design voltage of the vehicle electrical system.
(b)
The provisions of this code do not require that any vehicle be equipped with lighting equipment not required by this code, but if such equipment is installed it shall be maintained in good working order or shall be removed.
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
Equipment / lighting defect
~$196
Fix-it ticket; may be dismissed after repair and sign-off.
VC 24252(a) is typically a correctable violation. After repairing the defective equipment, you can have the fix certified by a police officer or authorized inspection station and submit proof to the court for dismissal. Without correction, the total fine is approximately $196 after assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions drivers search for after receiving this citation.
California Vehicle Code 24252(a) requires all required lighting to be in good working order. Citations are issued for defects such as burned-out headlights, non-functioning brake lights, broken taillights, failed turn signals, or cracked lens covers. It is one of the most common "fix-it" ticket categories in the state.
Yes, typically. After repairing the lighting defect, you can have the correction certified — usually by a peace officer or licensed inspection station — and submit the documentation to the court. The citation is then dismissed, usually for a small administrative fee.
No. Equipment violations under VC 24252(a) are non-point infractions. A conviction does not add points to your California DMV driving record.
If you can demonstrate the light was functioning at the time of the citation — through a recent inspection record or mechanic assessment — this may support a defense. Correcting and certifying the fix is also the fastest path to resolution.
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