CVC 26700 Ticket: Windshield Wipers Violation Guide
CVC 26700 requires all vehicles to have windshield wipers in good working condition. A citation means an officer determined your wipers were inadequate, broken, or missing.
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California Vehicle Code ticket overview
This page explains CVC 26700 for California traffic tickets, including what the violation means, why the ticket may matter, and what a driver should review before deciding whether to pay or contest it.
ClerkHero helps California drivers prepare Trial by Written Declaration (TR-205) paperwork online when a written-defense path appears to fit. ClerkHero is not a law firm.
CVC 26700, also written as VC 26700 on many California traffic citations, is the Vehicle Code section for Windshield Wipers.
Quick answer
CVC 26700 Quick Answer
Got a Windshield Wipers ticket? See the likely cost, points, fix-it status, and best next step before you pay.
Estimated cost before correction
$197 to $229+ (varies by county)
DMV points
0 points
Fix-it eligible
Yes
Traffic school
Check details
Fight by mail
Usually yes
Correction path may reduce this substantially. If corrected before the deadline, some courts may allow a reduced correction fee.
Best next step: Fix the issue quickly, keep proof, then check whether correction proof or another option makes the most sense.
ClerkHero is a self-help software provider, not a law firm. We help prepare documents for your review. Eligibility depends on your ticket and court.
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What to do right now
- 1Check the exact violation and court deadline.
- 2Fix the issue if it is correctable.
- 3Save photos, receipts, and any proof.
- 4Compare the cost of paying versus fighting.
Also searched as
Drivers and courts may refer to this violation using any of these labels:
- VC 26700
- VC26700
- Vehicle Code 26700
- California Vehicle Code 26700
- CVC 26700
Violation category
Vehicle Equipment
Base fine
$35
Estimated total cost
$197 to $229+ (varies by county)
DMV points
0 points
What is California Vehicle Code CVC 26700?
California Vehicle Code 26700 mandates that every motor vehicle have windshield wipers that can effectively clear rain, moisture, and debris from the windshield. This is a correctable equipment violation with no DMV points. Officers can cite drivers even in dry weather if wipers appear broken or missing. Fixing the problem quickly and providing proof to the court may result in reduced fines or dismissal.
Common scenarios
Scenario 1
You were pulled over on a sunny day. The officer noticed your wiper blades were cracked and torn. You replaced them the next day and submitted a certificate of correction, and the court dismissed the fine.
What to do: Get proof of correction as soon as possible, then check whether the court allows a reduced correction fee.
Scenario 2
During a rainstorm, your wipers stopped working mid-drive. An officer pulled you over and cited you for CVC 26700. You had the wiper motor repaired and provided the mechanic's invoice to the court.
What to do: Get proof of correction as soon as possible, then check whether the court allows a reduced correction fee.
Scenario 3
You removed your wipers temporarily to clean the windshield and wiper arms thoroughly. An officer stopped you before you reinstalled them. You explained the situation and showed the wipers in your back seat, but still received a citation.
What to do: Get proof of correction as soon as possible, then check whether the court allows a reduced correction fee.
Key facts
- CVC 26700 violations carry no DMV points and should not affect your insurance rates directly.
- This is a correctable violation. Fixing the wipers and submitting proof can result in dismissal or reduced fines.
- You can be cited even in dry weather if your wipers are visibly broken, missing, or inadequate.
- Trial by Written Declaration allows you to contest the ticket without appearing in court in person.
- Ignoring the citation can lead to failure to appear penalties, license suspension, and additional fines.
Search & topic tags
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- California windshield wiper law
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- do I need to go to court for CVC 26700
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Fine breakdown for CVC 26700
Fine breakdown for CVC 26700
| Category | Estimated amount |
|---|---|
| Base fine | $35 |
| Court add-ons (varies by county) | $162 to $194+ |
| Total estimated out-of-pocket | $197 to $229+ (varies by county) |
Official county court examples suggest a $35 base fine often turns into about $197 to $229+ once penalty assessments and court fees are added.
Correction path may reduce this substantially. If corrected before the deadline, some courts may allow a reduced correction fee.
A conviction can also raise insurance costs over time.
Cost check
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What happens if you ignore this ticket?
- - The court can add late fees.
- - The case may be sent to collections.
- - DMV or registration issues may follow.
- - A fixable ticket can become more expensive.
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Detailed guide
What Is CVC 26700?
California Vehicle Code Section 26700 requires every motor vehicle operated on California highways to be equipped with an adequate windshield wiper or wipers. The wipers must be in good working order and capable of effectively clearing the windshield of rain, snow, moisture, and other obstructions to provide clear vision.
If you received a citation for violating CVC 26700, the officer determined that your windshield wipers were either missing, broken, worn out, or otherwise inadequate to maintain a clear view through the windshield.
Why This Law Exists
Windshield wipers are a critical safety feature. Without functioning wipers, your ability to see the road during rain, fog, or when your windshield gets dirty is severely compromised. Poor visibility increases the risk of accidents that can harm you, your passengers, and other road users.
California law treats windshield wipers as essential equipment, similar to headlights, brakes, and turn signals. The requirement applies at all times, not just during bad weather. Your vehicle must be ready to handle changing conditions safely.
What the Citation Means
When you receive a CVC 26700 citation, the ticket will show the violation code, the date and location of the stop, and the officer's notes about why your wipers were deemed inadequate. Common reasons include:
- Wiper blades are torn, cracked, or missing rubber
- Wipers leave streaks or fail to clear water effectively
- One or both wipers are completely missing
- Wiper arms are bent or broken
- Wiper motor does not function
This is classified as a correctable violation (often called a "fix-it ticket"). That means if you repair or replace the wipers and provide proof to the court, you may avoid the full fine.
Fines and Costs
The base fine for CVC 26700 is typically $25 to $35. However, California adds mandatory court fees, assessments, and county-specific charges. Your total cost usually ranges from $197 to $229 or more, depending on the county where you received the ticket.
Because this is a correctable violation, many courts will reduce or dismiss the fine if you:
- Fix the windshield wipers promptly
- Obtain a signed certificate of correction from a law enforcement officer, authorized inspection station, or licensed mechanic
- Submit the certificate to the court by the deadline on your citation
Some courts charge a small administrative fee (often $25 to $50) even when the underlying fine is dismissed after correction.
DMV Points and Insurance Impact
CVC 26700 violations do not add points to your California driving record. This is an equipment violation, not a moving violation. Because there are no points, your auto insurance rates should not increase directly due to this citation.
However, if you fail to address the ticket and it results in a failure to appear (FTA) or failure to pay, the court may notify the DMV. This can lead to a license suspension and additional complications.
Traffic School
Traffic school is not required or relevant for CVC 26700 violations. Traffic school is typically used to mask a point from your driving record for moving violations. Since this violation carries zero points, traffic school does not apply.
Trial by Written Declaration
You have the right to contest a CVC 26700 citation without appearing in court by using a Trial by Written Declaration under CVC 40902. This process allows you to submit a written statement explaining your defense, along with any supporting evidence such as photos, receipts, or repair records.
The officer will also submit a written response, and a judge will review both submissions and issue a decision. If you lose, you can request a new trial (trial de novo) and appear in court in person.
Trial by Written Declaration is a good option if:
- You believe the officer made a mistake
- You have evidence showing your wipers were functional
- You want to avoid taking time off work for a court appearance
What to Check on Your Citation
Carefully review your citation for the following:
- Violation code: Confirm it says CVC 26700
- Correctable status: Look for a checkbox or note indicating this is a correctable violation
- Deadline: Note the date by which you must respond or submit proof of correction
- Court information: Identify which court handles your case and how to contact them
- Officer's notes: Read any comments about what was wrong with your wipers
Mistakes on the citation (wrong date, wrong vehicle, incorrect code) can sometimes be used in your defense.
Evidence to Gather
If you plan to contest the citation or prove correction, gather the following evidence:
- Photos of your windshield wipers taken on the date of the citation (if they were functional)
- Receipts for new wiper blades or repairs completed before or shortly after the citation
- Certificate of correction signed by a qualified person (officer, mechanic, or inspection station)
- Maintenance records showing regular upkeep of your vehicle
- Witness statements if a passenger can confirm the wipers were working
Organize this evidence clearly. If submitting by mail or online, include cover letters or explanations so the court understands what each document shows.
Your Options Before Paying
Paying the fine is an admission of guilt. Before you pay, consider these options:
1. Fix and Dismiss
If your wipers were truly inadequate, fix them immediately. Purchase new wiper blades (usually $10 to $30) and install them. Then:
- Have the repair verified by a law enforcement officer, mechanic, or authorized station
- Obtain a signed certificate of correction
- Submit the certificate to the court by the deadline
- Pay any administrative fee if required
This often results in dismissal of the underlying fine.
2. Contest the Citation
If you believe the citation was issued in error, you can contest it by:
- Requesting a Trial by Written Declaration
- Appearing in court for an arraignment and trial
- Presenting evidence that your wipers were adequate at the time of the stop
Common reasons to contest include officer error, mistaken identity of the vehicle, or proof that wipers were functional.
3. Request a Reduction
If you cannot afford the full fine, you may request a fine reduction or payment plan. Courts often consider financial hardship. You will need to provide documentation of your income and expenses.
4. Seek Legal Advice
While CVC 26700 is a minor equipment violation, if you have other citations, a suspended license, or prior violations, consider consulting a licensed attorney. Some violations can have cumulative effects, and legal advice may help you avoid additional penalties.
ClerkHero may not handle all case types, especially if your situation involves suspended licenses, criminal charges, or complex legal issues.
How to Prove Your Wipers Were Adequate
If you believe the officer made a mistake, you need to show that your wipers were in good working order at the time of the stop. Useful evidence includes:
- Timestamped photos or videos showing the wipers clearly and their condition
- Recent purchase receipts for new wiper blades installed before the citation date
- Witness testimony from a passenger or mechanic
- Maintenance logs from a repair shop
Be specific. Explain how the wipers functioned, what condition the blades were in, and why the officer's observation may have been incorrect.
What Happens If You Ignore the Ticket
Ignoring a CVC 26700 citation can lead to serious consequences:
- The court may issue a failure to appear (FTA) notice
- Additional fines and fees will be added
- The DMV may suspend your driver's license
- A warrant for your arrest could be issued in some cases
- Your vehicle registration renewal may be blocked
Always respond to the citation by the deadline, even if you plan to contest it or need more time.
Correcting the Violation Step by Step
- Purchase and install new wiper blades if yours are worn or damaged. Most auto parts stores sell them for $10 to $30 per pair.
- Test the wipers to ensure they clear the windshield effectively without streaking or skipping.
- Get a certificate of correction. You can ask a police officer, highway patrol officer, authorized inspection station, or licensed mechanic to inspect the wipers and sign the certificate.
- Submit the certificate to the court listed on your citation. Check if you can submit online, by mail, or in person.
- Pay any administrative fee if the court requires one.
- Keep copies of all documents for your records.
Can You Get This Ticket in Dry Weather?
Yes. The law requires your vehicle to have adequate wipers at all times, regardless of current weather conditions. Officers can cite you even on a sunny day if your wipers are missing, broken, or visibly worn out.
The reasoning is that conditions can change quickly. If it starts raining or your windshield gets dirty, you need functional wipers immediately. Waiting until bad weather to fix them is not acceptable under the law.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to fix the wipers. The sooner you correct the issue, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Losing the citation. Keep it in a safe place and note all deadlines.
- Assuming the ticket will go away. It won't. You must take action.
- Submitting incomplete proof. Make sure your certificate of correction is signed and legible.
- Missing the court deadline. Late submissions can result in additional penalties.
When to Consider Legal Help
CVC 26700 is a straightforward equipment violation, and most drivers can handle it without an attorney. However, consider consulting a licensed lawyer if:
- You have multiple citations or a history of violations
- Your driver's license is suspended or at risk of suspension
- You face additional charges related to the same traffic stop
- You do not understand the court process or your options
- You need help negotiating with the court
ClerkHero may not handle all case types, especially those involving suspended licenses, criminal matters, or high-risk situations. Licensed legal advice is important in complex cases.
Final Thoughts
A CVC 26700 citation is a minor equipment violation, but it still requires your attention. Fixing your windshield wipers promptly and submitting proof of correction can often result in dismissal or reduced fines. If you believe the citation was issued in error, gather evidence and consider contesting it through a Trial by Written Declaration or court appearance.
Always respond by the deadline on your citation. Ignoring the ticket can lead to license suspension, additional fines, and other complications. Take action, keep records, and follow through with the court process.
Decision point
Is it worth challenging this ticket?
Compare paying now against checking your available options, including points and insurance risk.
Common defenses
Defense ideas you can use if written declaration is available
Every ticket is different. These issues can help you organize facts, evidence, and questions before deciding whether to pay, correct the issue, or check eligibility.
Defense 1
The windshield wipers were in good working condition at the time of the stop, supported by photos or recent purchase receipts.
Defense 2
The wipers were temporarily removed for cleaning or maintenance, and you have evidence showing they were reinstalled shortly after.
Defense 3
The officer made an observation error. The wipers functioned properly, and you can demonstrate this with video or witness testimony.
Defense 4
You had just purchased and installed new wiper blades before the citation, and you have timestamped receipts proving this.
Defense 5
The citation contains errors such as wrong vehicle information, incorrect date, or wrong code, which undermines its validity.
Defense 6
Weather conditions at the time did not require wipers, and the officer's assessment of adequacy was subjective and incorrect.
More resources for CVC 26700
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Frequently asked questions about CVC 26700
Can I get a CVC 26700 ticket if it's not raining?
Yes. California law requires your vehicle to have adequate windshield wipers at all times, regardless of current weather. The law ensures your vehicle is ready for sudden rain or dirty windshield conditions. Officers can cite you even on a sunny day if your wipers are broken, missing, or visibly worn out.
What does "adequate" windshield wipers mean?
Adequate wipers are those that effectively clear rain, moisture, and debris from the windshield without leaving streaks or gaps. The wiper blades should be intact, not torn or cracked. The wiper arms and motor must function properly. If your wipers skip, chatter, or fail to clear the glass, they may be considered inadequate.
How do I get a certificate of correction for CVC 26700?
After repairing or replacing your windshield wipers, you need a qualified person to verify the correction. This can be a police officer, highway patrol officer, authorized vehicle inspection station, or licensed mechanic. They will inspect the wipers and sign a certificate of correction form. Submit this certificate to the court listed on your citation by the deadline.
Will this ticket add points to my driving record?
No. CVC 26700 is an equipment violation and does not add points to your California DMV driving record. Because there are no points, your auto insurance rates should not increase directly due to this citation. However, failing to address the ticket can lead to other penalties.
More FAQs about CVC 26700
What happens if I fix the wipers after getting the ticket?
Fixing the wipers after receiving the citation is exactly what you should do. Once repaired, obtain a certificate of correction and submit it to the court by the deadline. Many courts will dismiss the underlying fine or reduce it significantly, though you may still owe a small administrative fee.
Can I contest a CVC 26700 ticket if I think the officer was wrong?
Yes. You have the right to contest the citation by requesting a Trial by Written Declaration or appearing in court. Gather evidence such as photos of your wipers, receipts for recent replacements, or witness statements. Explain why you believe the officer's assessment was incorrect. A judge will review your evidence and make a decision.
Do I have to go to court for a CVC 26700 ticket?
Not necessarily. If you fix the wipers and submit a certificate of correction, you may not need to appear in court at all. If you want to contest the ticket, you can use a Trial by Written Declaration to handle it by mail. Court appearance is only required if you request an in-person trial or fail to respond to the citation.
How much will a CVC 26700 ticket cost?
The base fine is typically $25 to $35, but with California's mandatory fees and assessments, the total cost usually ranges from $197 to $229 or more depending on your county. If you submit a certificate of correction, the court may dismiss the fine entirely or charge only a small administrative fee of $25 to $50.
What should I do first after getting a CVC 26700 citation?
First, read the citation carefully and note the deadline for responding. Next, inspect your windshield wipers and determine if they need repair or replacement. Purchase and install new wiper blades if necessary. Then, obtain a certificate of correction from a qualified person and submit it to the court. Keep copies of all documents for your records.
Can I get my license suspended for a CVC 26700 violation?
The violation itself does not cause a license suspension. However, if you ignore the citation and fail to respond by the deadline, the court may issue a failure to appear notice. This can lead to a driver's license suspension by the DMV. Always respond to the citation on time, even if you plan to contest it or need more time to fix the issue.
What is VC 26700?
VC 26700 is another way California courts and citations may refer to CVC 26700 for Windshield Wipers. VC means Vehicle Code, while CVC means California Vehicle Code.
Is VC 26700 the same as CVC 26700?
Yes. On California traffic tickets, VC and CVC can refer to the same California Vehicle Code section. VC26700 is the compact version of VC 26700.
Can I fight a VC 26700 ticket?
You may be able to contest it depending on the facts, evidence, and court process. ClerkHero can help eligible California drivers prepare self-help documents for review.
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Official sources
ClerkHero uses official California court and DMV resources where available.
- California Courts Form TR-205
Official Trial by Written Declaration form used for eligible California traffic infractions.
- Alameda County Traffic Court fee example
- Tuolumne County Traffic Court fee example