Seeing a ticket on your car is frustrating, but not all citations are the same. If you received a fix it ticket, you have a chance to correct a minor issue without the stress of huge fines or points. Think of it as a warning with a to-do list. In California, handling a fix it ticket promptly is key. But what exactly is a fix it ticket, and does a fix it ticket go on your record? Understanding the process is the first step to protecting your license and avoiding much bigger problems down the road.

Fix it tickets, also known as proof of corrections violations, are in California are common. Receiving a fix it ticket can feel overwhelming, but with Deldar Legal, there’s no need to worry. Our knowledgeable attorneys specialize in traffic law and can assist you in every step of the process. Now, let’s get into the details:

Got a “Fix-It Ticket”? Here’s What It Means

A fix it ticket, also known as a “correctable violation,” is issued for minor infractions that can be remedied easily. Common examples include a broken taillight, an expired registration, or a missing license plate. Instead of paying a fine, the driver is given a chance to fix the issue within a specified period, usually 30 days, and then provide proof of the correction to the court or a law enforcement agency.

How to Handle a Fix-It Ticket in California

When you receive a fix it ticket, it’s crucial to address the problem promptly. First, read the ticket carefully to ensure you understand the violation and the deadline for making the necessary corrections. Next, make the correction by fixing the issue cited in the ticket. This might involve repairing a broken part of your vehicle, updating your registration, or addressing any other specified problems.

After making the correction, you need to get proof. This typically involves having a law enforcement officer or an authorized inspection station sign off on your ticket to confirm that the issue has been resolved. Once you have the signed-off ticket, return it to the court or the specified agency. You might also need to pay a small administrative fee. Finally, always keep copies of your documents and receipts related to the correction and submission process.

The Correction and Proof Process

Once you’ve addressed the issue with your vehicle or paperwork, the next step is to formally prove that you’ve complied. This isn’t as complicated as it sounds, but it does require you to follow a specific procedure to get the violation officially cleared. It involves getting the right signature from an authorized official, which serves as your proof for the court. This signed document is what ultimately allows the court to dismiss the correctable portion of your ticket, saving you from a much larger fine and helping you put the incident behind you without further penalties.

Getting Your “Certificate of Correction” Signed

After you’ve fixed the problem—whether it’s a burnt-out headlight or an expired registration sticker—you need to get it verified. To do this, take your ticket to a law enforcement officer. You can typically find an officer who can help at any local police station, sheriff’s office, or California Highway Patrol (CHP) office. The officer will inspect your vehicle or documents to confirm the issue is resolved. If everything checks out, they will sign the “Certificate of Correction” located on the back of your ticket. This signature is the official proof the court needs to see.

Providing Proof for Specific Violations

The signed “Certificate of Correction” is your golden ticket for resolving the violation. This is the primary piece of evidence you will present to the court to show you’ve held up your end of the bargain. Forgetting this step means that, in the eyes of the court, the problem was never fixed. Make sure you handle this promptly and keep the signed ticket in a safe place until you submit it to the court, as this is the key to getting the violation dismissed and moving on without the infraction affecting your driving record.

Paying the Dismissal Fee

Once you have your signed proof of correction, you’re not quite done. You will need to present it to the court and pay a small dismissal fee. According to the California Courts Self Help Guide, this fee is typically $25 for each correctable violation. While it’s an extra step, this fee is significantly lower than the fine you would have faced if the ticket were for a moving violation. Think of it as an administrative cost for processing your correction and clearing your record of the infraction, allowing you to resolve the matter affordably.

What If Your Ticket Has Multiple Violations?

It’s common for a single traffic stop to result in a ticket with more than one violation listed. It’s important to understand that a fix-it ticket only covers the correctable offenses. If you were cited for a broken taillight and also for speeding, for example, you must handle each violation separately. Getting the taillight fixed and certified will resolve that part of the ticket, but you will still be responsible for the speeding fine. If your ticket was issued after an auto accident, the situation can become much more complex, and it may be wise to seek advice to understand your full responsibilities.

Handling a California Ticket as an Out-of-State Driver

Getting a fix-it ticket while visiting California can be particularly stressful, but there is a process in place for out-of-state drivers. Your first step should be to contact the court in the county where you received the ticket. You can ask them if it’s possible to have a law enforcement officer in your home state inspect the correction and sign your California ticket. Not all jurisdictions may allow this, so calling the court directly is the only way to get clear instructions and avoid further complications with your license or driving record back home.

Important: Watch Out for Payment Scams

In our digital world, it’s crucial to be aware of potential scams. Please know that a California court will never call, text, or email you to demand payment for a ticket. If you receive a suspicious message with a link asking for personal information or payment, do not click on it or respond. Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to trick you. All official communication regarding your ticket and any fees owed will be handled through official mail or the court’s official website. Always be cautious and protect your personal information.

Why Did I Get a Fix-It Ticket?

There are several typical scenarios where you might receive a fix it ticket. For instance, broken lights, such as a headlight, taillight, or turn signal, are common reasons. Another frequent cause is driving with an expired vehicle registration, which can be resolved by renewing your registration and providing proof. Missing or damaged license plates can also lead to a fix it ticket if your vehicle’s license plates are missing, damaged, or not properly displayed.

Common Equipment and Registration Issues

Most fix-it tickets are for small, correctable problems with your vehicle—the kind of thing that can easily slip your mind. One of the top reasons for getting pulled over is for malfunctioning vehicle lights. This could be a burnt-out headlight, a non-working brake light, or a faulty turn signal, all of which are crucial for keeping you and other drivers safe on the road. Another frequent issue is an expired registration. While it’s an easy fix, it’s also an easy thing to forget until you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror. The same goes for missing or damaged license plates; they must be securely attached and clearly visible. Thankfully, addressing these issues is usually a simple process of making the repair and getting it signed off.

3 Simple Ways to Avoid a Fix-It Ticket

Preventing fix it tickets involves regular maintenance and adherence to traffic laws:

Regular Vehicle Inspections: Check your vehicle for any potential issues, including lights, registration status, and overall condition.

Stay Informed: Be aware of the traffic laws and regulations in your area to avoid violations.

Prompt Repairs: Address any minor vehicle issues immediately before they escalate into more significant problems or result in a ticket.

Remember, if you do have any correctable violations, the vehicle must be inspected by a law enforcement agency, and an officer will sign off on the back of your citation. The process is very quick and should only take a few minutes at your nearest branch of law enforcement.

What Happens If You Ignore a Fix-It Ticket?

It can be tempting to toss a fix-it ticket on your dashboard and forget about it, especially when life gets busy. But letting that deadline pass can create a cascade of problems that are far more serious than the original issue. If you fail to provide proof of correction in time, the court can place a hold on your driver’s license, which can quickly lead to a full suspension. Driving with a suspended license is a significant offense in California that can carry heavy penalties. What started as a simple broken taillight can snowball into a major legal headache, impacting your ability to get to work, run errands, and live your life.

Impact on Your Driving Record and Insurance

Many drivers assume a fix-it ticket won’t affect their insurance rates because it’s considered a “nonmoving violation.” While that’s generally true, there’s a critical exception you need to know about. If the very issue the ticket was for—like a faulty brake light or a worn tire—contributes to an accident, your insurance company may use it to assign you a higher degree of fault. This can complicate your ability to recover damages in an auto accident claim. Suddenly, that minor repair you put off becomes a key piece of evidence used against you, potentially reducing your settlement or leaving you responsible for costs.

The Serious Consequences of a “Failure to Appear”

Ignoring a fix-it ticket isn’t just about the ticket itself; it’s also about your obligation to the court. If you miss your court date or fail to handle the ticket by the deadline, you could be charged with a separate offense: “Failure to Appear” (FTA). The consequences for an FTA are severe and can include fines up to $1,000, a bench warrant being issued for your arrest, and a near-certain suspension of your driver’s license by the DMV. This turns a simple, correctable issue into a much more serious legal situation that requires immediate attention to resolve.

Your Next Steps After a Fix-It Ticket

Failing to correct the violation and provide proof within the specified time frame can lead to more severe consequences. The fix it ticket might be converted into a regular traffic ticket, resulting in fines, points on your driving record, and potential increases in your insurance rates. In some cases, ignoring a fix it ticket can lead to a warrant for your arrest.

If you do receive a fix it ticket, remember that timely correction and proof submission are key to resolving the issue efficiently. For those needing help or who have questions, contact us at (844) 335-3271. We’re here to assist you every step of the way!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a fix-it ticket go on my driving record? If you handle it correctly and on time, a fix-it ticket will not add any points to your California driving record. The violation is dismissed once you provide proof of correction and pay the small administrative fee. However, if you ignore the ticket and miss the deadline, the situation changes. The court can then find you guilty of the original violation and for failing to appear, which will absolutely go on your record and can lead to a license suspension.

What happens if I can’t afford the repair or get it done before the deadline? Life happens, and sometimes a 30-day window isn’t enough. If you’re struggling to get the repair done in time, the worst thing you can do is nothing. You should contact the court listed on your ticket before the deadline passes. You can explain your situation and request an extension. While not automatic, courts are often willing to work with you if you are proactive and show you are trying to comply with the order.

Can I just pay a fine and not deal with the repair? No, you cannot simply pay a fine to make a fix-it ticket go away. The entire purpose of a correctable violation is to ensure your vehicle is safe and meets California’s legal standards. Ignoring the repair and failing to show proof of correction will result in much larger fines, a potential “Failure to Appear” charge, and other penalties that are far more severe than the cost of the original fix.

Will a fix-it ticket make my car insurance rates go up? Typically, a properly resolved fix-it ticket is a non-moving violation and won’t impact your insurance premiums. The key word here is “resolved.” There is a critical exception to keep in mind: if the very issue you were cited for, like a faulty brake light, later contributes to an accident, your insurance company can use that fact to assign you a greater percentage of fault. This could seriously affect your ability to get fair compensation in a personal injury claim.

Do I actually have to go to a police station to get the ticket signed? Yes, you need an authorized official to verify that the correction has been made. You can take your vehicle and the ticket to any local police department, sheriff’s office, or California Highway Patrol (CHP) office. An officer will inspect the repair or updated document, and if everything is in order, they will sign the “Certificate of Correction” on the back of your citation. This signed proof is what you will submit to the court.

Key Takeaways

Address fix-it tickets in three simple steps: First, make the required correction to your vehicle. Second, have a law enforcement officer sign the back of your ticket as proof. Finally, submit it to the court with the required dismissal fee.
Ignoring a fix-it ticket creates bigger problems: Failing to handle the ticket by the deadline can lead to a suspended license, a separate “Failure to Appear” charge, and even a warrant, turning a minor issue into a serious legal matter.
An unresolved ticket can affect an accident claim: If the equipment problem cited on your ticket contributes to a collision, an insurance company may use it to argue you were at fault, which could reduce the compensation you receive.

How to Resolve a California Fix-It Ticket