U-Turn Laws in California: Where You Can and Cannot Make a U-Turn

Overview of California U-Turn Laws

California’s U-turn laws are spread across several Vehicle Code sections, each addressing a specific situation. In California, U-turns are generally permitted at intersections unless a sign or specific law prohibits them. Understanding where U-turns are allowed and where they are not can help you avoid a costly ticket.

The primary Vehicle Code sections governing U-turns in California include CVC 22100.5 (U-turns at controlled intersections), CVC 22102 (U-turns in business districts), CVC 22103 (U-turns in residential districts), and CVC 22104 (U-turns near fire stations). Each section establishes different rules depending on the type of location.

Where U-Turns Are Prohibited in California

California law prohibits U-turns in several specific situations. Knowing these restrictions is essential for all drivers, as violations carry fines and a point on your DMV record.

CVC 22100.5 — Controlled Intersections

Under CVC 22100.5, a U-turn at an intersection with traffic signals is allowed only as CVC 21451 permits (on a circular green light or a left green arrow, unless a sign prohibits a U-turn), and only from the far-left lane lawfully available to traffic going your direction. At intersections controlled by other official traffic control devices, such as stop signs, the U-turn must also be made from the far-left lane. Under CVC 21801, you must yield to oncoming vehicles close enough to be a hazard until the U-turn can be made with reasonable safety.

CVC 22102 — Business Districts

CVC 22102 prohibits U-turns in business districts except at intersections or through openings in a divided highway intended for turns. A "business district" is defined under CVC 235 as a stretch of road where 50 percent or more of the property fronting it is occupied by buildings in use for business, measured over 600 feet on one side of the road or 300 feet on both sides combined. In practical terms, if you are on a commercial street with shops, offices, or restaurants lining the road, you should not make a mid-block U-turn.

CVC 22103 — Residential Districts

In a residence district, CVC 22103 prohibits a U-turn when any other vehicle is approaching from either direction within 200 feet, except at an intersection where the approaching vehicle is controlled by a traffic signal, stop sign, or other official traffic control device. A separate rule, CVC 22105, prohibits a U-turn on any road where you do not have an unobstructed view for 200 feet in both directions. Unlike business districts, mid-block U-turns in residence districts are allowed when these conditions are met and no sign prohibits the turn.

CVC 22104 — Near Fire Stations

CVC 22104 specifically prohibits U-turns in front of the driveway entrance or approach to any fire station. It also prohibits using a fire station driveway entrance or approach to turn around. This applies regardless of whether it is a business district, residential area, or other zone.

Where U-Turns Are Legal in California

• At intersections with a traffic signal, on a circular green light or a left green arrow, from the far-left lane, when no sign prohibits a U-turn and you yield to oncoming traffic.
• At intersections without a traffic signal, when no sign prohibits the turn, you yield to oncoming traffic, and you have an unobstructed view for 200 feet in both directions (CVC 22105). In a residence district, no other vehicle may be approaching within 200 feet unless it is controlled by a stop sign or other official traffic control device (CVC 22103). If the intersection has stop signs or other traffic control devices, make the turn from the far-left lane (CVC 22100.5).
• Through openings in a divided highway that are designed for turning movements.
• On residential streets, when no vehicle is approaching within 200 feet from either direction and you have an unobstructed view for 200 feet both ways.
• In private parking lots and on other private property, since the U-turn rules of the Vehicle Code apply to highways (CVC 21001). The exception is a privately owned road where a city or county has applied the Vehicle Code by ordinance or resolution (CVC 21107.5 to 21107.7). Reckless driving in a parking facility open to the public is still illegal (CVC 23103).

Penalties for Illegal U-Turns in California

An illegal U-turn is an infraction under California law. The base fine is $35, and with penalty assessments, surcharges, and court fees, the total is $234 under the Judicial Council’s 2026 bail schedule (some counties charge more). A conviction adds 1 point to your DMV driving record (CVC 12810), and the DMV discloses the conviction for 3 years from the date of the violation (CVC 1808).

How to Contest a U-Turn Ticket

Contesting a U-turn ticket follows the same process as other California traffic infractions. You can request a Trial by Written Declaration, which allows you to submit your case in writing. This approach saves you from having to appear in court and take time off work.

1. Identify the exact CVC section cited on your ticket (for example 22100.5, 22102, 22103, 22104, or 22105).
2. Research the specific requirements of that section to determine whether the elements of the violation are met.
3. Visit the location and document conditions such as signage, sight lines, and the character of the area (business vs. residential).
4. Request a Trial by Written Declaration and prepare your written statement with supporting evidence.
5. Submit your declaration by the court deadline. In most courts, you deposit the bail when you submit it (CVC 40902(b)), and it is refunded if you are found not guilty or the charge is dismissed. Courts that offer online trial by declaration through MyCitations generally cannot require bail in advance (Government Code 68645.4).

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