Defective or Missing Rear Lamps
Operating a vehicle without functioning rear lamps that are visible from at least 500 feet to the rear.
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.
What is a Defective or Missing Rear Lamps ticket?
CVC 24600 requires functioning taillamps and stoplamps on the rear of the vehicle. A defective or missing rear lamp citation means one or more rear lamps are burned out, broken, or non-functional.
No DMV points, $25–$200, correctable fix-it ticket. Repair promptly — non-functioning rear lamps are a major safety hazard.
No DMV points — no insurance impact.
What the Law Says
What the Officer Must Prove
- 1Your vehicle's rear lamps were not functioning as required under CVC 24600
How Drivers Get This Ticket
One stoplamp out; officer observes during braking.
Replace bulb, sign-off, $25 fee.
Common Defenses for Defective or Missing Rear Lamps
These are the defense arguments that appear most often in successful Trial by Written Declarations for this violation.
Lamps were functioning at time of citation
Challenge whether the officer's observation was accurate. A dirty lens, momentary flicker, or obstruction can be mistaken for a failed lamp. If the lamp was functioning, document it.
Correctable violation
Replace the defective rear lamp and get a Certificate of Correction.
How to Address This in Your Declaration
- ✓Repair receipt
- ✓Photos showing functioning rear lamps after repair
⚠️ What NOT to Do
- ✗Driving at night with non-functional taillamps
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Frequently Asked Questions About Defective or Missing Rear Lamps
What is the difference between taillamps and stoplamps?▼
Taillamps are on whenever headlights are on. Stoplamps only illuminate when brakes are applied. Both are required under CVC 24600.
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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.