Expired Driver License
A CVC 12500 citation means your driver license had expired at the time of the stop. Renewing your license through the DMV and presenting proof to the court before the deadline resolves this citation.
Correction Window
The deadline is printed on your citation. Renew and certify before that date.
Fine After Correction
The base fine is $25 after the license is renewed and the correction is certified. Without correction, fines and surcharges can total several hundred dollars.
Who Can Certify
Present your renewed license to any law enforcement officer or DMV office to obtain the certificate of correction.
Missing the deadline converts this citation into a standard infraction. Driving without a valid license while the case is pending may also lead to additional citations.
Step by Step
How to Correct This Violation
- 1
Schedule a DMV appointment or visit a DMV office to renew your driver license.
- 2
Complete the renewal process, including any required tests if your license has been expired for an extended period.
- 3
Obtain your renewed license or a DMV-issued receipt confirming the renewal.
- 4
Bring your citation and renewed license to a law enforcement officer or DMV office for sign-off.
- 5
Submit the signed citation and the $25 fee to the court before your deadline.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can my license be expired and still be eligible for this correction process?
- California generally allows the fix-it ticket correction process for recently expired licenses. If the license has been expired for a very long period, the court may have different requirements. Contact the court listed on your ticket to confirm.
- Can I drive to the DMV to renew if my license is expired?
- California does not permit driving with an expired license. Consider having someone else drive you, using public transportation, or arranging for a ride to the DMV.
This guide covers passenger vehicle violations. Drivers operating under a commercial license should consult their 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 works