CVC 21750 Overtaking and Passing Ticket – What You Need to Know
Violation of California Vehicle Code Section 21750
Written by
Violation category
General Traffic
Base fine
$35
Estimated total cost
Includes court fees and assessments
DMV points
1 point
What is California Vehicle Code CVC 21750?
Violation of California Vehicle Code Section 21750
Common scenarios
- You were driving on a three-lane road and passed a slow car on the right lane because the car was turning left from the middle lane.
- You carefully passed a vehicle on the right side on a wide street where there were two or more lanes going the same way.
- You briefly used the paved shoulder to pass a car that was stopped and signaling a left turn, without leaving the road.
Key facts
- Passing on the Right is Usually Not Allowed: California law says you should pass on the left side unless the vehicle ahead is turning left or the road has multiple lanes going the same way.
- Road Conditions Matter: You must pass safely without driving off the paved part of the road or on the shoulder.
- Tickets Can Be Challenged: If you believe you passed legally or the officer made a mistake, you can explain your side in court or with a defense letter.
Fine breakdown for CVC 21750
| Category | Estimated amount |
|---|---|
| Base fine | $35 |
| Court & county surcharges (estimate) | $133 |
| Total estimated out-of-pocket | $168 |
County fees can multiply the base fine by 3–5x. ClerkHero confirms exact totals using your ticket details.
What is CVC 21750?
CVC 21750 is a law about "overtaking and passing" other vehicles on the road. It means you can't pass another car on the right side unless it's safe and allowed. This rule helps keep everyone safe by preventing accidents when cars try to pass each other.
If you got a ticket for this, it means the officer thinks you passed another vehicle in a way that broke this rule.
Why does this matter?
Passing on the right can be dangerous if the road isn’t wide enough or if other drivers don’t expect it. The law wants you to pass on the left side unless certain conditions are met.
What you need to know:
- You can only pass on the right if the vehicle you’re passing is making or about to make a left turn.
- The road should be wide enough for safe passing.
- You should never drive off the paved or main part of the road to pass.
If you’re confused or worried, don’t stress. Many drivers get this ticket, and there are ways to explain your side or even fight it.
Defense ideas you can use in your TR-205 packet
Every ticket is different, but these arguments often surface in successful Trial-by-Declaration defenses. ClerkHero tailors the narrative to match your facts and any evidence you upload.
Defense 1
I was passing on the right because the car ahead was turning left, and the road was wide enough for safe passing.
Defense 2
The road had multiple lanes going in the same direction, so I legally passed on the right.
Defense 3
I did not leave the paved road or shoulder when passing; it was safe and allowed.
Defense 4
The officer’s observation was incorrect or unclear about where I passed the vehicle.
Defense 5
There were no signs or road markings prohibiting passing on the right at that location.
We can help fight your ticket CVC 21750 online
ClerkHero builds your entire TR-205 defense packet automatically. No lawyer. No court visit. No confusing forms. Just upload your ticket and we handle the rest.
Step 1
Upload your ticket
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Step 2
We generate your defense
You answer a few questions. We craft a TR-205 defense letter tailored to this exact violation code.
Step 3
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You receive a complete filing packet with step-by-step instructions. Never miss a deadline again.
Frequently asked questions about CVC 21750
Can I pass on the right if there’s a bike lane?
No. Passing on the right using a bike lane is not allowed and can be dangerous for cyclists.
What if the car ahead is stopped and signaling a left turn?
You can pass on the right if it’s safe and the road is wide enough, but never go off the paved road.
Does having multiple lanes going the same way let me pass on the right?
Yes. If there are two or more lanes going your direction, you can pass on the right lane safely.
What happens if I get this ticket?
You may have to pay a fine or attend traffic school. But you can also fight the ticket if you have a good defense.
How can I fight a CVC 21750 ticket?
You can explain that you passed legally, show evidence like photos or witness statements, or ask for help writing a defense letter.