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Citation vs. Ticket: What is the Difference?

Posted on October 16, 2024 in Crime

“Is a citation a ticket?” As a motorist, you may have asked yourself this question a couple of times. These terms are often used interchangeably and basically refer to the same thing – an action taken by law enforcement officials to record a traffic violation. Nonetheless, the term citation is considered more formal than ticket and can be used to refer to a broad range of legal violations beyond traffic-related issues. On the other hand, you are more likely to see the word "ticket" used only for traffic violations.

Whether you are a new driver or a seasoned vehicle owner, understanding what citations and tickets are can help you navigate traffic laws and know the appropriate actions to take if you receive one.

What Is a Citation?

A citation is a formal notice issued by law enforcement officials to individuals who violate a law. It should be noted that citations are not limited to traffic violations and can also be issued for other infractions and even misdemeanors. In the context of traffic violations, these citations are typically issued for offenses like speeding, running a red light or stop sign, driving without a valid license and/or registration, and failing to carry auto insurance. Citations generally serve as a record of the traffic violation and outline the next steps to take, which often involve paying a fine or attending a court hearing.

citation or ticket

What Is a Ticket?

Even though many people refer to citations as tickets in everyday conversion, is a citation the same as a ticket? Well, tickets are technically citations that are specifically linked to traffic violations. They primarily deal with minor traffic infractions, like speeding, failing to yield, or parking in a no-parking zone, and may be either a physical or electronic document notifying the driver of their violation. Tickets are usually resolved by simply paying a fine before a deadline and do not necessarily require a court appearance. However, you may need to appear in court if you intend to dispute the ticket.

Common Types of Tickets

Tickets are issued for a wide range of moving and non-moving traffic violations (moving violations refer to traffic violations committed while a driver is in motion, while non-moving violations occur when a vehicle is stationary). Each type of ticket has its own set of fines and consequences; most can typically be resolved without the need for court appearances unless the driver chooses to dispute them.

Here are some common types of tickets issued across various jurisdictions:

  • Speeding Tickets: these are issued when a driver exceeds the speed limit. While you may be let off with a verbal warning for driving a few miles over the speed limit, going way above the limit usually results in a ticket, which subsequently leads to fines, a mark on your driving record, and even jail time (in extreme cases).
  • Red Light/Stop Sign Violations: you can get a ticket for running a stop sign or red light; penalties for this vary by jurisdiction and the specifics of the situation, such as if an accident occurred due to your failure to stop at the stop sign or red light.
  • Parking Tickets: you can get ticketed for parking in a restricted area (like a no-parking zone) – parking during street cleaning times is also considered a non-moving violation in some jurisdictions.
  • Failing to Signal: while it may seem like a small oversight, failing to signal when turning or changing lanes can lead to a ticket and even add points to your license.
  • Expired Tags: you can receive a ticket for operating a vehicle with expired registration tags.
  • DUIs: DUIs are very serious moving violations. The consequences of a DUI ticket range from substantial fines to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, and even jail time. DUIs also usually remain on a driver’s record for up to 10 years or more (the specific time frame varies by jurisdiction).
  • Reckless Driving: tickets are usually issued to drivers who operate their vehicles recklessly and without regard for the safety of other road users and pedestrians. Behaviors considered reckless driving include (but are not limited to) tailgating, speeding, texting, grooming or applying makeup when driving, running traffic lights, weaving between lanes, tailgating, and driving under the influence.
  • No Auto Insurance: you can get ticketed if you fail to produce proof of auto insurance when requested by a police officer who pulls you over. Insurance-related tickets typically result in heavy fines and the suspension of your license and registration, especially if you were involved in an accident.
  • Car Damage Issues: issues like broken headlights or turn signals, faulty brake lights, or loud exhaust systems could result in a ticket if they are not addressed promptly.
  • No Seatbelt: besides being a dangerous driving behavior, not wearing a seatbelt can also lead to a traffic ticket.
  • Tinted Windows: some jurisdictions place restrictions on window tinting and how dark they can be, and you can receive a traffic ticket for violating these requirements.

receiving ticket

Key Differences Between a Citation and a Ticket

Although the terms “citation” and “ticket” are often used interchangeably and are generally considered the same, there is a key (albeit a very slight) difference between them. A citation is a broad term that covers a variety of infractions, including traffic offenses and other legal violations, while tickets usually refer to specific traffic-related violations and can usually be resolved by paying a stipulated fine. On the other hand, citations may involve more serious legal issues that require a court appearance. As such, you are more likely to hear the term "citation" being used concerning formal legal procedures, such as if you decide to contest a ticket (in court). 

The consequences of receiving a citation/ticket vary by jurisdiction and are usually determined by the type of violation and specific circumstances surrounding the issue. Nevertheless, these consequences typically include fines and points added to the driver’s record; serious violations may also require a mandatory appearance in court.

It should be noted that receiving a citation is not an automatic admission of guilt; it is simply a notification of the violation for which you are being charged. Police officers usually explain the violation when issuing the ticket, and you can choose to pay the stipulated fine or contest it in court. 

Impact on Driving Record

Citations can negatively impact your driving record; however, the extent of this depends on the severity of the violation. Speeding tickets and other similar moving violations usually result in points added to your driving record. These added points, in turn, can lead to increased insurance premiums and even a license suspension (if too many points accumulate over a short period). Tickets issued for more serious violations, like DUIs, often result in stiffer penalties, such as a longer-lasting mark on your records (for anywhere between 5 – 10 years), substantial fines, mandatory attendance in traffic school, and even possible jail time. Insurance companies also tend to treat citations from serious violations more harshly, leading to even higher increases in insurance premiums.

Payment and Dispute Processes

The process of handling a ticket is usually straightforward; you can either pay the stipulated fine via the available channels (usually indicated on the ticket) or contest it by appearing in court (some jurisdictions may also allow you to submit evidence online). Note that citations involving serious violations (such as DUIs and reckless or aggressive driving) often require a mandatory appearance in court; failing to do this on the stipulated date can lead to additional penalties, including a warrant for your arrest. Likewise, failing to pay your traffic ticket before the deadline can result in additional fines, a suspended license, and even jail time.

Be aware that, in many jurisdictions, paying the fine (for your ticket) is considered an admission of guilt; doing this means that you forfeit your right to contest the citation. Also, contesting a ticket will involve presenting your case before a judge or magistrate, and it is advisable to consult an attorney before taking this step.

Situations Where You Might Receive a Citation or Ticket

There are several reasons why a law enforcement officer may issue you a ticket. These include:

  • Parking in a restricted zone or in front of a fire hydrant
  • Not paying for parking
  • Driving above the posted speed limit
  • Tailgating, weaving between lanes, texting while driving, and other reckless driving behaviors
  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Driving without auto insurance
  • Driving under the influence/driving while intoxicated (this usually carries very severe penalties)

What To Do if You Receive a Citation or Ticket

Taking the appropriate steps if you receive a citation or ticket is crucial in ensuring you do not escalate the situation and even get the ticket dismissed, if possible. Firstly, it is important to remain calm and polite, especially if you are pulled over; provide your license, registration, and proof of insurance if asked to do so. When the citation is issued, carefully review it to understand your options. Depending on the situation, you can either choose to pay the fine by the specified deadline or dispute the ticket if you believe it was issued incorrectly. However, you should never ignore a ticket; doing this usually leads to increased fines or legal consequences.

Steps to Take After Receiving a Citation

Here are the steps to take after receiving a citation:

  • Carefully review the details of the citation to understand the violation and instructions for next steps. You can also ask the police officer who issued the citation for this.
  • Determine the required response to the citation. Citations often require the payment of a fee, but some may involve a mandatory court appearance. If you are expected to make a court appearance, ensure that you know the date and location of the hearing.
  • Ensure that you pay the stipulated fine by the due date and/or appear in court as required. Failing to do this can lead to more severe penalties.
  • If you plan to dispute the citation, prepare your case and gather the necessary evidence. It is advisable to consult an attorney if you decide to go this route.

ticket

Steps To Take After Receiving a Ticket

If you receive a ticket, carefully review it to ensure that you understand the nature of the violation and the associated penalties. Tickets typically detail the nature of the offense, the fine due, and the payment deadline.

Once you have done this, decide whether you want to pay the fine or dispute the ticket. Tickets usually include channels through which you can pay the associated fine (if you accept the violation) as well as instructions for contesting the violation if you do not agree with it (this may include submitting evidence and/or appearing in court). Ensure that you make your decision and initiate necessary actions before the stipulated deadline.

If the ticket requires a court appearance, make sure that you show up on this date and on time to avoid additional penalties. While paying a ticket typically closes the case, you should also consider keeping copies of the tickets and receipts of any payments for a while.

Note that, in some cases, you can have a traffic ticket dismissed – some states offer drivers with no recent violations a deferral or deferred disposition, which is similar to probation. Drivers who meet the outlined requirements during this deferral period may get their ticket dismissed; these requirements may include completing a safe driving course, fixing faulty equipment in the vehicle (like broken tail lights), or renewing expired tags.

While there is basically no major difference between a citation and a ticket, it is important to note that citations also encompass other offenses besides traffic violations. Understanding the actions that can lead to a citation or ticket helps you confidently navigate traffic laws. If you do receive one, it is essential to follow the proper procedures and seek legal advice (if needed) to avoid further complications

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