Non-Functioning Windshield Wipers
A CVC 26707 citation means your windshield wipers were not in good operating condition or did not give you a clear view through the windshield. Vehicle Code 26707 requires the wipers the law calls for to be kept in good operating condition, and Vehicle Code 26706 requires a self-operating wiper on motor vehicles with a windshield, other than motorcycles (two wipers, or one that meets the federal wiped-area standard, on vehicles first registered after 1949). Replacing worn blades or repairing the wiper motor, then getting the correction signed off, 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 once the wipers work.
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
Test the wipers to determine whether the blades, wiper arms, or motor are the issue.
- 2
Replace the wiper blades or have the wiper motor repaired as needed.
- 3
Confirm the wipers clear the windshield and give you a clear view.
- 4
Have a law enforcement officer sign the certificate of correction.
- 5
Submit the signed citation and $25 fee to the court before your deadline.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are wiper blades easy to replace myself?
- Yes. Wiper blades are one of the most straightforward vehicle repairs. Auto parts stores carry replacements and can help you install them at no charge in most cases.
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.
Also have a moving violation on your ticket?
Speeding and moving violations follow a different process. TicketClear prepares your written declaration.
See how TicketClear worksYour ticket has a deadline. Tell your side today.
Most California citations have a 60-day deadline. Write what happened in your own words, then review, edit and sign your declaration.
Start my declarationFree to start · $49.99 when you're ready to download