Traffic Citations Information

A civil traffic infraction is a non-criminal violation which usually can be disposed of by payment of a civil penalty or election to attend a defensive driving course. A court appearance is not required, except in cases where the violation involves an accident with serious bodily injury, a fatality or certain other violations.

Your options for a Traffic Citation

In Jefferson County, you have 30 days from the date of issuance to elect one of the following:

• Option 1: Plead guilty, accept points on your driver license and pay the ticket
• Option 2: Pay the ticket and Elect Traffic School to withhold adjudication off your driving record
• Option 3: Contest the ticket and request a court hearing

Option 1 - Pay the Ticket

By paying the Traffic Civil Penalty, you are admitting guilt and the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) will assess points on your driving record for moving violations.
Pay Online, by mail or in person.

Option 2 - Go To Traffic School

If you choose to go to school, you must submit the Driver Improvement Course Affidavit Form along with your payment within 30 days of receiving the ticket. Upon receipt of your affidavit and payment you will be granted an extra 90 days to attend a driver improvement school. Failure to attend the school or pay the fine will result in suspension of your license and late fees being assessed.

No points are assessed against your Driver’s License if you attend a driver improvement school.

Remember, you may only elect the traffic school option five (5) times in your life and the election can only be made once every twelve (12) months. Failure to timely complete the school course or timely submit your completion certificate or pay the fine will result in removal of the fee reduction, points being assessed, and suspension of your license and/or late fees being assessed.

You can submit your certificate to the court in person or by mail.

Option 3 - Contesting Your Ticket

If you choose to contest the ticket, contact the court to request for a hearing within 30 days of the date of the citation. You will be notified of your court date via U.S. Mail. Please be sure to provide a valid postal address.

Jefferson County Clerk of Court

Traffic Division
1 Courthouse Cir
Monticello, FL 32344

Phone: 850-342-0218 ext 226