CVC 25100 Turn Signal Ticket Help | How to Fight a No Signal Ticket in CA
Operating vehicle without required turn signals or signal devices
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 25100?
Operating vehicle without required turn signals or signal devices
Common scenarios
- You changed lanes on a busy street but forgot to signal because you thought it was a quick move.
- Your turn signal bulb was burned out, and you didn’t realize it before the stop.
- You made a right turn on a quiet road and didn’t signal because there were no other cars around.
Key facts
- Turn Signals Are Required by Law: California law (CVC 25100) says you must signal before turning or changing lanes to warn other drivers.
- Signal at Least 100 Feet Before Your Turn: You need to start signaling early enough so others have time to react safely.
- Not Signaling Can Lead to Fines and Points: If you don’t signal, you risk a ticket, fines, and points on your license, which can raise insurance costs.
Fine breakdown for CVC 25100
| 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 25100?
This law says you must use your turn signals when turning or changing lanes. Turn signals help other drivers know what you're about to do. If you don’t use them, it can cause accidents or confusion.
Why did I get this ticket?
You might have been stopped because an officer saw you turn or change lanes without signaling. Even if you thought it was quick or safe, the law requires a signal every time.
What does the law require?
- Use your turn signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes.
- Signal clearly so other drivers can see or hear it.
- This applies to all vehicles on public roads.
What happens if I don’t signal?
You can get a ticket like this one. It usually comes with a fine and may add points to your driving record. Points can raise your insurance rates.
How can I fight this ticket?
Sometimes there are good reasons or mistakes. Keep reading for defenses and examples that might help you.
Remember, signaling is a simple way to stay safe and avoid tickets. But if you got this ticket and feel it’s unfair, you have options.
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 did use my turn signal, but the officer didn’t see or hear it.
Defense 2
My turn signal was working properly, but the officer made a mistake.
Defense 3
I was driving on a private road or property, not a public street.
Defense 4
I only made a slight lane adjustment that didn’t legally require signaling.
Defense 5
The signal light or device was malfunctioning despite my efforts to fix it.
We can help fight your ticket CVC 25100 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 25100
Do I have to signal if no one is around?
Yes. The law requires signaling every time you turn or change lanes, even if the road seems empty.
What if my turn signal wasn’t working?
You should fix it as soon as possible. If you got a ticket, you might explain this in court, but it’s your responsibility to keep signals working.
Can I use hand signals instead of blinkers?
Hand signals are allowed if your vehicle doesn’t have turn signals, like on a bike or older car, but most cars must use the built-in signals.
How far before the turn do I need to signal?
At least 100 feet before you turn or change lanes, so other drivers have time to notice.
Will this ticket add points to my driving record?
Yes, failure to signal usually adds one point, which can affect your insurance rates.