In California, minor traffic violations related to vehicle equipment, registration, or documentation often result in what’s commonly called a fix-it ticket. These are officially known as correctable violations and allow drivers to fix the issue, provide proof, and have the citation dismissed—often with just a small administrative fee.
This article explains what a fix-it ticket is, the types of violations it covers, how to respond, what deadlines and fees to expect, and whether you need a traffic attorney to handle it.
What Is a Fix-It Ticket?
A fix-it ticket is a type of traffic citation issued when a vehicle-related issue is considered minor and correctable. Rather than issuing a large fine or assigning points to your driving record right away, law enforcement gives you an opportunity to fix the problem. If corrected within a specific time frame and approved by the appropriate authority, the violation can be dismissed.
Common Types of Fix-It Tickets
Fix-it tickets in California usually apply to simple, repairable or documentation-related issues such as:
Broken headlights, tail lights, or turn signals
Missing or expired license plate stickers
Failure to carry or show proof of insurance
Expired vehicle registration
Not carrying a valid driver’s license or having an incorrect license class
Excessive window tint
Missing front or rear license plate
These violations do not involve dangerous or reckless driving behavior. They are typically based on vehicle condition or lack of required paperwork.
How Fix-It Tickets Work
When a law enforcement officer issues a fix-it ticket, it usually means they believe the issue is something you can correct. Here’s what the general process looks like:
Check the ticket: It will indicate whether the violation is correctable. Look for a box that says “yes” under the correctable violation section.
Correct the issue: For example, replace the broken light, renew your registration, or locate your valid proof of insurance.
Get verification: Once the issue is corrected, you’ll need to get the back of the ticket signed by an authorized person, such as a law enforcement officer, DMV official, or court clerk.
Submit proof and pay the administrative fee: Typically, a $25 dismissal fee is charged per correctable violation.
Wait for dismissal confirmation: Once submitted, the court processes the ticket and dismisses the violation if all requirements are met on time.
What Happens If You Don’t Fix It?
Failing to take action on a fix-it ticket can lead to more serious consequences:
The court may convert the correctable violation into a regular traffic citation.
You may be required to pay a full fine, sometimes hundreds of dollars.
A civil assessment (additional penalty) may be added for failure to appear or respond.
Your driver’s license or vehicle registration could be suspended or flagged.
In more serious cases, a failure to appear in court may lead to a misdemeanor charge.
Handling a fix-it ticket promptly is always in your best interest, even if it seems like a minor issue.
Do Fix-It Tickets Affect Your Driving Record?
When resolved correctly, fix-it tickets do not add points to your driving record and do not impact your car insurance rates. The key is to:
Correct the violation
Provide the necessary proof
Pay the administrative fee
Meet the court’s deadline
If you ignore the ticket or fail to correct it in time, it may escalate and potentially lead to points on your record.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
Most fix-it tickets in California can be handled without an attorney. Since these are minor infractions, the process is typically straightforward and doesn’t require legal representation.
However, there are situations where a traffic attorney can help:
Multiple violations on one ticket: If your fix-it ticket also includes a moving violation or another non-correctable offense, a lawyer may help minimize the consequences.
Unfair or mistaken citation: If you believe the citation was issued in error, you might consider contesting it. Legal advice can help in these cases.
Complications with court or deadlines: If you missed a deadline, didn’t receive a court notice, or face a suspended license because of the ticket, a lawyer can assist in clearing things up.
Commercial driver license (CDL) holders: For professional drivers, even minor issues may have serious job-related consequences.
In general, fix-it tickets are designed to be corrected easily by the driver, but it’s always wise to speak to a legal professional if there’s any confusion, dispute, or added complexity.
Practical Tips for Handling Fix-It Tickets
Act quickly: Fix the issue and submit proof well before the deadline to avoid extra fines or complications.
Keep documentation: Save all receipts, repair invoices, or proof of compliance in case you need to show them later.
Double-check who’s authorized: Not all agencies or individuals can sign off on the correction. Confirm who can certify your specific fix.
Call the court or check online: Procedures may vary slightly depending on your county. Some courts offer online submission options for proof of correction.
Handle all parts of a ticket: If your citation includes both fix-it and non-fix-it items, make sure you respond to each part correctly.
Example Scenarios
Scenario 1: You get pulled over for a broken brake light. After replacing it, you visit your local police department where an officer verifies the repair and signs your ticket. You submit it to the court, pay the $25 fee, and the violation is dismissed—no further action needed.
Scenario 2: You forget to renew your registration and are cited. Instead of correcting the issue quickly, you delay and miss your deadline. The court converts the fix-it ticket to a regular violation, and you’re now facing a larger fine and possible DMV penalties.
Scenario 3: Your fix-it ticket also includes a citation for speeding. Even if you fix the equipment issue, the moving violation still stands. You may choose to consult a traffic attorney to contest the speeding charge and protect your record.
Final Thoughts
Fix-it tickets are meant to give drivers a chance to correct minor vehicle or documentation issues without suffering major legal or financial consequences. If you act quickly, follow the steps, and pay the required fee, you can usually resolve the matter easily.
While most people don’t need a lawyer for a fix-it ticket, legal help can be useful in cases involving multiple violations, missed deadlines, disputed charges, or professional driving concerns.
If you’re unsure how to proceed with your ticket—or if you’re worried about your record or license—it may be worthwhile to consult a traffic attorney who understands California’s vehicle laws and court system.
Need Help Traffic Violation?
Southwest Legal has helped California drivers resolve their traffic tickets. If you’re unsure about how to proceed, missed a deadline, or have other violations tied to your ticket, our experienced traffic attorneys can step in and guide you through every step. Don’t let a minor ticket turn into a major headache. Let Southwest Legal help you handle it the right way. Call us today for a free consultation.
