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 Leon 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 Traffic Citation Option Form and file it with the Clerk’s office with your payment within 30 days of receiving the ticket. Upon receipt of your affidavit and payment you will be granted an extra 60 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.
Traffic School Certificates can be submitted by mail, in person or by E-File online.
Option 3 - Contesting Your Ticket
To contest your ticket, call or visit the Clerk’s office in person. Once processed, a court hearing will be set. If you have not received a hearing notice after 10 business days, please contact the Clerk’s office.
Leon County Clerk of Court
Leon County Courthouse
301 S Monroe St, Suite 100Tallahassee, FL 32301
Leon County Northeast Branch
1276 Metropolitan Blvd, Suite 101Tallahassee, FL 32312-2558
Phone: 850-606-4100
