Broken or Non-Functioning Brake Light
A CVC 24603 citation means one or more of your brake lights (stoplamps) were not working. Vehicle Code 24603 requires stoplamps on the rear: at least one, and two, one on each side at the same level, on vehicles other than motorcycles manufactured and first registered on or after January 1, 1958. Replacing the bulb or repairing the circuit, then getting the correction certified, resolves this violation.
Correction Window
The deadline is printed on your citation.
Fee After Correction
These steps apply when your ticket was issued as correctable. An officer does not issue it that way if there is evidence of fraud or persistent neglect, the violation presents an immediate safety hazard, or you cannot promptly correct it (Vehicle Code 40610(b)). When the court accepts your proof of correction, the court clerk collects a $25 fee for each corrected violation (Vehicle Code 40611). There is no fee if the agency that cited you handles the correction and nothing is sent to the court (Vehicle Code 40611(c)). Without proof of correction, you may owe the full fine. Check your notice or ask your court for the amount.
Who Can Certify
A police department, the CHP, a sheriff, a marshal or another agency that enforces the Vehicle Code can certify this correction. A vehicle safety systems inspection station licensed by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) can also sign it off. BAR says you do not need a full vehicle safety systems inspection to clear a brake or light fix-it ticket.
The court must dismiss a corrected violation when you deliver proof of correction on or before the date on your ticket (Vehicle Code 40522). After that date it may not accept the correction, and you may owe the full fine. If you fail to appear without good cause, the court may add a civil assessment of up to $100 after mailing you a warning notice (Penal Code 1214.1). Willfully failing to appear, or willfully failing to deliver proof of correction, is a misdemeanor (Vehicle Code 40508 and 40616). If you need more time, ask the court before the date passes.
Step by Step
How to Correct This Violation
- 1
Have someone press the brake pedal while you observe which brake light is not functioning.
- 2
Replace the faulty brake light bulb or have the wiring diagnosed and repaired.
- 3
Confirm all brake lights activate when the brake pedal is pressed.
- 4
Have a law enforcement officer or a BAR-licensed safety inspection station sign the certificate of correction.
- 5
Submit the signed citation and $25 fee to the court before your deadline.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many brake lights does the law require?
- Vehicle Code 24603 requires at least one stoplamp, and two on vehicles other than motorcycles manufactured and first registered on or after January 1, 1958, one on the left and one on the right at the same level. On vehicles made on or after January 1, 1979, they must emit red light.
- Can I fix this myself without a mechanic?
- Yes. Brake light bulbs are typically straightforward to replace. Most auto parts stores carry replacements and can look up the correct bulb for your vehicle.
This guide covers passenger vehicles. Some rules differ for commercial vehicles and truck tractors (for example, where registration tabs go under Vehicle Code 5204(a)). If you were driving one, check with your employer or a licensed attorney.
This guide provides general procedural information only. It is not legal advice. For questions specific to your citation, contact the court listed on your ticket.
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