Operating a vehicle without required headlamps during darkness or inclement weather.
No DMV points — correctable violation
This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.
CVC 24400 requires every motor vehicle to have at least two functioning headlamps — one on each side of the front — emitting white light. A non-functioning headlamp is a correctable fix-it ticket.
No DMV points, $25–$200, correctable. Driving with a burned-out headlamp is dangerous and a common stop reason.
No DMV points — no insurance impact.
During darkness, every motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, shall be equipped with at least two lighted headlamps, with at least one on each side of the front of the vehicle.
One headlamp burned out at night.
Replace bulb, sign-off, $25 fee.
These are the defense arguments that appear most often in successful Trial by Written Declarations for this violation.
Headlamp was functional
Brief flicker doesn't equal a defective lamp. Document with mechanic inspection showing both headlamps functional.
⚠️ What NOT to Do
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From 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, and whenever visibility is under 1,000 feet. Daytime running lights alone do not satisfy this requirement.
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This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.
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