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 Nassau 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 the school option, notify the Clerk of Court with a signed Driver Improvement Affidavit Form when you pay the ticket and make the traffic school election. You will be then given 60 days to submit a certificate of completion to show compliance in order to satisfy your case.

If the driver improvement course is completed and the completion certificate timely filed, no points will be assessed against your driver license and the fine may be reduced, depending on the type of violation.

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 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.

Option 3 - Contesting Your Ticket

You must contact the traffic department within 30 days of the issuance date of your citation. Your case will be scheduled for a court date, and you will be advised when and where to appear. The officer who issued the citation and any other witnesses called by the officer will be present. You may also bring any witnesses you wish to testify on your behalf. If you are found guilty of a civil infraction, the court may assess a fine and court costs, order you to attend a defensive driving course, or impose other penalties. A suspension will be issued against your driver’s license and additional penalties will be imposed if you fail to comply with the courts order within the specified time period.

Nassau County Clerk of Court

76347 Veterans Hwy
Yulee, FL 32097

Phone: 904-548-4600