CVC 24252 Defective Headlamps Ticket - Understand & Fight Your California Traffic Ticket
Violation of California Vehicle Code Section 24252
Written by
Violation category
Vehicle Equipment
Base fine
$35
Estimated total cost
Includes court fees and assessments
DMV points
0 points
What is California Vehicle Code CVC 24252?
Violation of California Vehicle Code Section 24252
Common scenarios
- You got a ticket because one headlight was dim. You fixed it the next day and took a photo showing it works fine.
- Your headlight cover was cracked but still lit up. You argue the crack didn’t affect light output.
- The officer said your lights were dirty, but you show photos proving you cleaned them before the stop.
Key facts
- Headlights must be clean and working: California law requires all headlights to be in good shape and shining bright enough to keep you safe on the road.
- You can fix the problem and still fight the ticket: If you fix your lights before court, bring proof. Courts often reduce or dismiss tickets when the issue is corrected.
- Not all light issues are violations: Minor scratches or temporary dirt usually aren’t enough for a ticket. The lights must actually be defective or unsafe.
Fine breakdown for CVC 24252
| 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 24252?
CVC 24252 says your vehicle’s headlights and other required lights must work properly and be clean. This means your headlights can’t be broken, missing, or too dim. If your lights don’t meet these rules, you might get a ticket.
Why does this matter?
Headlights help you see at night and let other drivers see you. Broken or dirty lights can be dangerous. That’s why California makes sure all cars have working lights.
What should you check?
- Both headlights turn on and shine bright enough
- No cracks or damage on the light covers
- Lights are clean and not covered by dirt or snow
- All other required lights (like tail lights and turn signals) work too
If you got a ticket for CVC 24252, don’t panic. You can often fix the problem and fight the ticket if the officer was wrong.
What to do next?
- Check your headlights and lights right away.
- Fix any broken or dirty lights.
- Take photos showing your lights work.
- Consider writing a defense letter if you believe the ticket was unfair.
We’re here to help you understand your options and get your case sorted.
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
The headlights were working properly at the time of the stop, and the officer made a mistake.
Defense 2
The defect was fixed before the court date, and you have proof (like repair receipts or photos).
Defense 3
The alleged problem was due to temporary dirt or weather conditions, not a real defect.
Defense 4
The vehicle’s lights met California standards, but the officer misunderstood the issue.
Defense 5
The ticket was issued on a vehicle that was not yours or was not being driven by you at the time.
We can help fight your ticket CVC 24252 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
We extract all violation details using hybrid OCR and AI. Works for handwritten, camera, and printed citations.
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
Sign, mail, and track
You receive a complete filing packet with step-by-step instructions. Never miss a deadline again.
Frequently asked questions about CVC 24252
What does CVC 24252 mean for me?
It means your vehicle’s headlights or other required lights were not working properly or were damaged.
Can I fix my headlights and avoid a fine?
Yes, if you fix the problem before your court date and show proof, the judge may reduce or drop the fine.
Do I need to go to court for this ticket?
You can usually handle it by mail or online, but sometimes going to court helps if you want to explain your side.
Will this ticket add points to my driving record?
No, a defective headlamp ticket typically does not add points, but you should still take it seriously.
What if my lights were dirty because of weather?
If the dirt or weather caused the issue temporarily, you can explain this and show you cleaned the lights.