Traffic Citation Information
Most infraction violations must be paid within 30 calendar days from the date the ticket was issued to avoid additional late fees and possible suspension of your driver license.
Your options for a Traffic Citation
Upon receipt of a traffic ticket for any violation where points may be assessed, you have 30 days from the date of issuance of the ticket to exercise one of three options:
- Option 1: Pay Fines and Fees in Full. Points may be assessed.
- Option 2: Elect Driving School
- Option 3: Request a Court Hearing
Option 1 - Pay the Ticket
When you elect this option, it is considered a conviction and points may be assessed on your driver license. You will not be allowed to elect the driving school option at a later date.
Civil traffic infractions must be paid within 30 calendar days from the date the citation was issued. Failure to pay may result in Driver License suspension and late fees and reinstatement fees may be assessed.
Payments can be made Online, by Mail, or in Person - (see address below)
Option 2 - Elect Traffic School
No points will be assessed against your Driver's License if you complete a driver improvement school. However, if you fail to complete the driving school option within the 60 day timeframe, or pay the remaining fine payment balance, additional fees may be assessed, along with a suspension of your driver license.
The driving school certificate of completion may be filed electronically via the GovQA Portal, in person at any Clerk's office location, or by sending the original certificate of completion by mail to the Pinellas Clerk of Courts.
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.
Option 3 - Contest Your Ticket
If you choose to contest a Civil Traffic Infraction ticket, you must make your request for a hearing in writing to the Clerk within 30 calendar days of the date of the citation. You will be notified of your court date.
Pinellas County Clerk of Court Locations
Pinellas County Justice Center
14250 49th Street NorthClearwater, FL 33762
North County Branch
29585 US 19 NorthClearwater, FL 33761
Clearwater Courthouse
315 Court St. Room 170Clearwater, FL 33756
St. Petersberg Branch
545 First Avenue NorthSt. Petersberg, FL 33701
Phone: 727-464-7000
