At The Ticket Clinic, we’ve fought millions across the nation since 1987. Over the last +35 years, we’ve heard all the questions about how traffic tickets work, what to do if stopped, and why fighting a ticket is smarter than paying it. This Q&A guide answers the most common questions we hear from California drivers.
Q: What are the most common traffic tickets issued in California?
Q: What should I do during a traffic stop to protect myself?
Q: I got a traffic ticket. What now?
Q: What if I get a ticket in the mail?
Q: What if I get a notification about a ticket by text message?
Q: Why is simply paying a ticket a bad idea?
Q: What are the short‑term vs. long‑term consequences of a ticket?
Q: How does the California Points System work, and how many points do common traffic infractions carry?
Q: How can a poor driving record prevent you from employment opportunities?
Q: Why is it critical for CDL and professional drivers to fight every ticket?
Q: Which traffic violations can lead to arrest?
Q: Why choose The Ticket Clinic?
Q: How do I hire The Ticket Clinic?
Q: Which California counties are the most common places to get a traffic ticket?
Q: What are the most common traffic tickets issued in California?
California drivers receive millions of citations each year, and certain violations are far more common than others. Law enforcement and traffic cameras focus on behaviors that directly impact safety or compliance. Here are the top offenders:
Speeding Violations (CVC §22349 & §22350)
Speeding is the single most frequent ticket in California.
CVC §22349 – Driving faster than 65 mph on most freeways (or 55 mph on two-lane undivided highways).
CVC §22350 – “Basic speed law,” meaning driving faster than is safe for current conditions, even if below the posted limit.
These tickets often carry 1 point on your DMV record and fines that climb with every 10 mph over the limit.
Red‑Light Violations (CVC §21453)
Running a red light or making an illegal right turn without fully stopping is cited under CVC §21453.
Red‑light camera tickets are mailed to vehicle owners and carry 1 DMV point plus significant fines.
Stop Sign Violations (CVC §22450)
Known as the “rolling stop” ticket, CVC §22450 requires a full stop at the limit line or entrance to the intersection. Even a slight roll before proceeding can result in a citation.
Distracted Driving / Cell Phone Use (CVC §23123 & §23123.5)
CVC §23123 – Prohibits using a handheld cell phone while driving.
CVC §23123.5 – Bans texting or using electronic devices in a way that requires hands-on use.
These violations usually carry a fine and can add a point for repeat offenses.
Seat Belt and Child Safety Violations (CVC §27315 & §27360)
CVC §27315 – All drivers and passengers over 16 must wear seat belts.
CVC §27360 – Child passengers must be secured in proper safety seats.
Equipment and Registration Violations (“Fix‑It Tickets”)
These are correctable violations that can often be dismissed after repairs:
CVC §5200 – Missing or improperly displayed license plates.
CVC §24252 – Broken or non‑functional lights.
CVC §4000(a) – Expired registration.
Once you repair the issue and have an officer sign off, you can submit proof to the court and pay a small dismissal fee.
Why these tickets matter:
Even these common 1‑point infractions can:
Raise insurance premiums
Add up toward DMV negligent operator points (4 points in 12 months can trigger a suspension)
Create headaches for CDL and rideshare drivers who rely on a clean record
The Ticket Clinic fights these cases daily across California, aiming for dismissals, reductions, or traffic school eligibility to keep points off your DMV record.
Q: What should I do during a traffic stop to protect myself?
A traffic stop can be stressful, but the way you handle it can impact the outcome of your ticket—and even your safety. Staying calm, following the law, and protecting your rights is key.
Here’s a step‑by‑step guide for California drivers:
1. Pull Over Safely (CVC §22109 & §21806)
Use your signal and slow down to a safe stop on the right shoulder or nearest safe area.
Stopping quickly or erratically can be seen as unsafe driving.
If it’s dark, choose a well‑lit area if possible.
2. Stay Calm and Visible
Keep your hands on the steering wheel where the officer can see them.
At night, turn on your interior dome light.
Avoid sudden movements or reaching for items before instructed.
3. Gather Required Documents (CVC §12951 & §16028)
California law requires you to provide:
Driver’s license (CVC §12951)
Proof of registration (CVC §4454)
Proof of insurance (CVC §16028)
Wait until the officer requests these to avoid appearing nervous or suspicious.
4. Choose Words Carefully
Be polite and professional.
Avoid admitting guilt—simple statements like “I understand” are better than excuses.
If you plan to fight the ticket, your respectful conduct can help in court.
5. Take Mental Notes for Your Defense
Note the officer’s name, badge number, patrol car number, and time/location of the stop.
Observe road and traffic conditions, as these details can help contest the ticket later.
If safe, you may document the scene with photos after the stop, especially for issues like unclear signage or obstructed views.
Q: I got a traffic ticket. What now?
Receiving a traffic ticket in California triggers a legal obligation to respond, usually within 30 to 45 days from the citation date. Ignoring it leads to added fines, DMV holds, and even license suspension.
Here’s how to handle it step‑by‑step:
1. Review Your Ticket Carefully
Check the due date for your response or court appearance.
Identify whether it’s a:
Infraction (e.g., speeding, rolling stop)
Misdemeanor (e.g., reckless driving, driving on suspended license)
Correctable/fix‑it ticket (e.g., broken light, expired registration under CVC §40610)
2. Decide How You’ll Respond
California law gives you three main options:
Pay the Ticket
Admits guilt.
Adds DMV points for moving violations.
Increases insurance premiums for up to 3 years.
Contest the Ticket (Fight It)
Plead “Not Guilty.”
Request either trial in person or Trial by Written Declaration (CVC §40902), which allows you to fight by mail.
The Ticket Clinic handles all filings, evidence prep, and court appearances to seek dismissal or reduction.
Fix‑It / Correctable Tickets
Repair the issue (light, tags, window tint).
Have an officer or authorized agency sign off.
Submit proof and pay a small dismissal fee to clear the case.
3. Gather Evidence If Fighting the Ticket
Strong defenses often include:
Photos or video of the scene (e.g., obstructed stop sign, poor lighting).
Weather and traffic conditions that affect speed or visibility.
Maintenance or calibration records for radar/lidar devices.
Witness statements, if available.
4. Respond Before the Deadline
Missing your response leads to:
Civil Assessment Fee (up to $300) under CVC §40508
Hold on your license renewal or registration
Potential warrant for failure to appear on misdemeanors
Q: What if I get a ticket in the mail?
Getting a ticket in your mailbox often surprises drivers—but in California, it usually means you’ve been caught by automated enforcement or a ticket was issued in your absence.
The two most common mailed tickets are:
Red‑Light Camera Tickets (CVC §21453)
Cities across California use cameras to catch vehicles entering intersections after the light turns red.
A Notice to Appear is mailed to the registered owner with:
Date, time, and location of the violation
Photos and sometimes video footage of your vehicle
Instructions for paying or contesting the ticket
Penalty: ~$490 base fine, 1 DMV point, and potential insurance hikes
Automated Speed Camera Tickets (CVC §22350 & Local Programs)
While traditional speed cameras are limited, school zones and safety corridors in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles are piloting automated speed enforcement.
Notices are mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner with a photo and speed reading.
Fines vary based on how far over the limit you were driving.
How to Respond to a Mailed Ticket
Read the Notice Carefully – Confirm your response deadline (often 30–45 days).
Decide on Your Response:
Pay (admits guilt, adds points, raises insurance)
Request Traffic School (if eligible)
Contest the Ticket through a Trial by Written Declaration (CVC §40902) or in-person hearing
Check for Errors – Tickets can be dismissed if:
Your plate is misread
The notice arrives after 15 days from violation date
The evidence is unclear or incomplete
Consider Professional Help – Contesting mailed tickets can be technical; The Ticket Clinic reviews evidence, challenges procedural issues, and aims for dismissal or point reduction.
Important:
Ignoring a mailed ticket can trigger:
Civil Assessment Fee up to $300 (CVC §40508)
DMV registration hold
Potential collection action for unpaid fines
The Ticket Clinic has defended thousands of red‑light and mailed citations, helping drivers avoid points and protect their records.
Q: What if I get a notification about a ticket by text message?
Getting a text message claiming you received a traffic ticket can be alarming. But in California, legitimate traffic tickets are almost never issued or delivered by text.
Recognize Potential Scams
Courts and law enforcement do not issue tickets by text message.
Scammers often send fake messages with:
Links to “pay your ticket” immediately
Threats of license suspension or arrest
Generic greetings or suspicious shortened links
Red Flag Example:
“CA DMV: You have an unpaid ticket. Click here to avoid license suspension.”
What to do if you get a potentional DMV scam text
If you receive a text like this:
Do NOT click any links.
Check your physical mail – California courts issue citations via:
Hand‑delivered tickets from officers
Mailed notices for red‑light cameras (CVC §21453) or automated speed cameras
Contact the local court or check online:
Use the county traffic court website or official DMV portal
Search by your name or license plate number
Compare details – Real tickets include:
Date and time of violation
Citation number
Location of violation
Response instructions
Pro Tip:
Never send payment or personal information through a link from a text message.
Official California traffic communications are delivered by mail or in person, not by SMS.
Q: Why is simply paying a ticket a bad idea?
Many drivers think the easiest solution is to pay the ticket and move on. But in California, paying a traffic ticket is a legal admission of guilt, and the consequences can follow you for years.
1. Paying = Conviction
When you pay a ticket:
You are pleading guilty to the violation.
The court enters a conviction on your driving record.
DMV points are immediately applied for moving violations.
Example:
Speeding (CVC §22350) → 1 point
Failure to stop at a red light (CVC §21453) → 1 point
Reckless driving (CVC §23103) → 2 points
2. Insurance Rates Can Skyrocket
Even a 1‑point violation can raise premiums for 3+ years.
2‑point violations (DUI, reckless driving) can make some drivers uninsurable or require expensive SR‑22 coverage.
3. DMV Point Accumulation Leads to Suspension
Under California’s Negligent Operator Program:
4 points in 12 months → License suspension risk
6 points in 24 months → Higher insurance + DMV action
8 points in 36 months → Automatic suspension hearing (CVC §12810.5)
4. Future Consequences for Repeat Offenses
Prior convictions make future tickets harder to fight.
Multiple points can disqualify CDL or rideshare drivers from employment.
Some violations remain on record for 13 years, like DUIs or 2‑point offenses.
5. Fighting Can Lead to Better Outcomes
Contesting your ticket with professional help can result in:
Dismissal if evidence is weak or procedures were violated
Reduction to a non‑moving violation, avoiding points
Traffic school eligibility, which keeps the point off your public DMV record
Bottom Line:
Paying might feel like the “easy” route, but it can cost thousands in insurance hikes and put your license at risk.
The Ticket Clinic’s California attorneys fight to keep points off your record, avoid license issues, and save you long‑term costs.
Q: What are the short‑term vs. long‑term consequences of a ticket?
A traffic ticket in California has immediate effects that most drivers expect—but the long‑term impact is where many drivers are caught off guard. Understanding both is critical before deciding to simply pay a citation.
Short‑Term Consequences
Fines and Penalties
Base fines may look small—like $35 for minor speeding—but state and county surcharges often raise the total to $230–$500+.
Serious infractions (like CVC §22349 speeding 100+ mph) can exceed $900.
Traffic School Requirement or Option
Eligible for 1‑point violations (e.g., speeding under 100 mph, red‑light ticket).
Completing school hides the point from public record but not from DMV internally.
Court Dates and Time Lost
If you contest the ticket or it’s a mandatory appearance violation (like reckless driving under CVC §23103), you may need to appear or hire representation.
Immediate Stress and Disruption
Anxiety about your license status, court dates, and potential costs often sets in right away.
Long‑Term Consequences
DMV Points and License Risk
1‑point violations (speeding, stop sign, red light) stay 39 months.
2‑point violations (DUI, reckless driving, hit‑and‑run) stay 13 years.
Hitting 4 points in 12 months triggers a Negligent Operator suspension review under CVC §12810.5.
Insurance Rate Increases
Most insurers increase premiums 15–40% for 3–5 years after a single moving violation.
Multiple tickets or 2‑point convictions can push drivers into high‑risk or SR‑22 coverage, costing thousands more.
Employment Consequences
CDL holders and rideshare/delivery drivers risk suspension, job loss, or disqualification.
Employers often check DMV driving records for up to 10 years for serious offenses.
Cumulative Financial Impact
A single ticket might cost $300 now—but with insurance hikes, the true cost can exceed $1,500–$2,000 over 3 years.
Additional tickets compound the problem, leading to compounded surcharges and suspension fees.
Bottom Line:
A ticket isn’t just a one‑time expense—it’s a long‑term liability. Fighting tickets with The Ticket Clinic can protect your record, keep insurance low, and avoid license suspensions.
Q: How does the California Points System work, and how many points do common traffic infractions carry?
California uses the Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) to track points on your driving record. Each traffic violation adds points based on its severity, and too many points can trigger license suspension or revocation under CVC §12810.5.
Key Rules:
1‑point violations stay on your record for 39 months.
2‑point violations stay for 13 years.
License suspension risk:
4 points in 12 months
6 points in 24 months
8 points in 36 months
Common California Traffic Violations and Points
| Violation | Vehicle Code | Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (1–15 mph over limit) | CVC §22350 | 1 | “Basic speed law” |
| Speeding (16–24 mph over) | CVC §22349 | 1 | Applies to most freeways |
| Speeding (100+ mph) | CVC §22348(b) | 2 | Mandatory court, fine ~$900+ |
| Running a red light | CVC §21453 | 1 | Includes red‑light cameras |
| Rolling stop / Stop sign | CVC §22450 | 1 | “California roll” |
| Unsafe lane change | CVC §22107 | 1 | Includes failure to signal |
| Following too closely | CVC §21703 | 1 | “Tailgating” violation |
| Cell phone use / Texting | CVC §23123 / §23123.5 | 1 | 1 point only on repeat violations |
| Driving without a license in possession | CVC §12951(a) | 0 | Correctable violation |
| Reckless driving | CVC §23103 | 2 | Misdemeanor, court required |
| Hit‑and‑run (property damage) | CVC §20002 | 2 | Misdemeanor |
| Driving on suspended/revoked license | CVC §14601 | 2 | Misdemeanor |
| DUI / DWI (alcohol or drugs) | CVC §23152 | 2 | Felony if injury involved |
Why Points Matter
DMV Action – Too many points trigger a Negligent Operator hearing and can lead to suspension.
Insurance Premiums – Points can raise rates 15–40% for 3–5 years.
Employment Impact – CDL, rideshare, and delivery drivers can be disqualified after even a single 2‑point violation.
Compounding Risk – Multiple points stack quickly, and a 2‑point violation counts double toward suspension thresholds.
How The Ticket Clinic Helps:
Fights tickets to avoid points entirely
Seeks reductions to non‑moving violations that carry 0 points
Pursues traffic school eligibility to keep points off your public record
With professional representation, many drivers avoid points, keep their license safe, and prevent costly insurance hikes.
Q: How can a poor driving record prevent you from employment opportunities?
A traffic ticket doesn’t just affect your license and insurance—it can also limit your job prospects, especially in industries that rely on driving or require a clean background check. California employers often review DMV records as part of hiring and ongoing employment.
1. Driving‑Related Jobs Require a Clean Record
Employers in these fields frequently check your DMV record:
Commercial truck driving (CDL positions)
Delivery and courier services (Amazon, FedEx, UPS)
Rideshare and gig driving (Uber, Lyft, DoorDash)
Company car or fleet vehicle positions
Government or municipal driving roles
Even one moving violation can be a red flag for insurance reasons, and multiple points can disqualify you completely.
2. DMV Points Can Trigger Employer Insurance Issues
Companies with fleet vehicles must maintain low‑risk insurance pools.
Drivers with 2‑point violations like reckless driving (CVC §23103) or DUI (CVC §23152) may cause higher premiums or non‑renewal for employer insurance.
Some companies have zero‑tolerance policies for recent moving violations.
3. Background Checks Include Driving Records
Many employers run pre‑employment motor vehicle reports (MVRs).
Your MVR shows:
DMV points and convictions
License suspensions or revocations
Outstanding or unpaid tickets
Serious violations like DUIs or hit‑and‑runs
CDL employers check 10 years of driving history under FMCSA rules.
4. Repeat Violations Lead to Missed Opportunities
3 speeding tickets in 12 months (CVC §22350) → High‑risk driver status
1 reckless driving + 1 speeding → 3 points in a year, likely employment disqualification
1 DUI → Many employers will not consider applicants for 5–10 years
Why Fighting Tickets Matters for Your Career:
Protects your driving record from points and suspensions
Keeps your insurance and your employer’s insurance affordable
Maintains eligibility for CDL, rideshare, and delivery roles
Q: Why is it critical for CDL and professional drivers to fight every ticket?
For commercial drivers and anyone who drives for a living, a single ticket can be more than just a fine—it can threaten your livelihood. California holds CDL drivers to a higher standard under CVC §15250 et seq., and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposes strict reporting requirements.
1. Points Affect CDL Drivers More Severely
1‑point violations for standard drivers can count as 1.5–2 points against a CDL when used for employment insurance purposes.
2‑point violations like reckless driving (CVC §23103) or DUI (CVC §23152) can result in immediate suspension of commercial driving privileges.
California DMV considers 4 points in 12 months negligent for all drivers—but employers may fire CDL drivers for far fewer.
2. Job Loss and Employment Ineligibility
Major carriers and delivery companies often terminate drivers after a single moving violation.
Repeat tickets can disqualify you from:
Trucking and logistics positions
Rideshare or taxi companies
Courier and delivery jobs (UPS, FedEx, Amazon)
3. Federal Reporting and Compliance
FMCSA regulations require reporting certain convictions, including:
Speeding 15+ mph over limit
Reckless driving or unsafe lane changes
Following too closely (CVC §21703)
DUI or refusing chemical tests
Two “serious” violations within 3 years can result in a 60‑day disqualification, even without a suspension from DMV.
4. Insurance and Employer Liability
Employers must insure their CDL drivers.
Even one moving violation can raise fleet insurance costs significantly.
Some companies adopt zero‑tolerance policies for moving violations to avoid risk.
5. Why Professional Defense Is Essential
Fighting every ticket protects:
Your license from suspension or disqualification
Your record from high‑impact points
Your income by keeping you employable
Q: Which traffic violations can lead to arrest?
Not all traffic tickets are created equal. Most California traffic citations are infractions—minor offenses punishable by fines only—but certain violations are misdemeanors or felonies and can lead to an arrest, court appearance, and even jail time.
Understanding which tickets cross the line into criminal traffic violations can help you protect your license and your freedom.
Misdemeanor Traffic Offenses
These violations can result in arrest at the scene and mandatory court appearances:
Reckless Driving (CVC §23103)
Driving with willful disregard for safety
Punishable by up to 90 days in jail and 2 DMV points
Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License (CVC §14601)
Knowingly driving with a suspended/revoked license
Can lead to arrest and vehicle impound
Hit‑and‑Run (Property Damage) (CVC §20002)
Leaving the scene after causing property damage
Misdemeanor with up to 6 months in jail and 2 points
Speed Contest / Exhibition of Speed (CVC §23109)
Street racing or spinning out
Often results in vehicle impound and court‑ordered fines
Felony Traffic Offenses
The most serious violations can carry state prison sentences and permanent criminal records:
DUI with Injury (CVC §23153)
Driving under the influence causing injury to another person
Felony with license suspension and 2 DMV points
Hit‑and‑Run with Injury or Death (CVC §20001)
Leaving an injury crash scene
Felony with potential state prison sentence
Evading a Police Officer (CVC §2800.2)
Fleeing in a vehicle with reckless disregard
Felony if dangerous maneuvers involved
Infractions That Can Escalate
Even minor tickets can turn into arrest situations if:
You ignore the ticket and fail to appear (FTA) in court (CVC §40508)
You accumulate too many points and drive while suspended
You commit the same violation repeatedly
Q: Why hire The Ticket Clinic?
Because traffic tickets are all we do—and we’re the largest traffic law firm in the United States. For over 35 years, we’ve helped millions of drivers protect their licenses, avoid costly insurance hikes, and keep points off their records.
In California alone, we have an 80% success rate, and our attorneys handle everything from speeding and red‑light tickets to CDL violations and misdemeanor driving cases. Chances are, we’ve already fought a case just like yours—and won.
Here’s why drivers trust us:
Deep expertise in California traffic law – We know the local courts, judges, and Vehicle Codes inside and out.
Proven results – Our 80% success rate in California speaks for itself.
Nationwide coverage – Get help anywhere in the U.S., not just in California.
Full‑service representation – We handle paperwork, deadlines, and court appearances so you don’t have to.
Flat‑fee pricing – You’ll know your cost upfront with no hidden fees.
Most clients never step foot in court—we do the heavy lifting, so your ticket becomes a minor inconvenience instead of a major problem.
Q: How do I hire The Ticket Clinic?
Hiring The Ticket Clinic is fast and simple. You can:
Call us to talk with a traffic ticket professional
Hire us online by submitting your ticket through our website
Text a photo of your ticket to 305305 to get started instantly
Once we have your ticket, we’ll review your case, explain your options, and handle everything—from filing paperwork to going to court for you if needed.
Most clients never have to appear in court, and our flat‑fee pricing means no surprise costs.
Q: What are the most common places in California to get a traffic ticket?
Some parts of California feel like ticket traps, and it’s not just in your head. Tickets pile up in busy counties and high‑traffic corridors where enforcement is heaviest.
Across the state, the counties with the most tickets issued include:
Los Angeles County – Freeways like the 405, 101, and I‑5 are patrolled constantly, and LA has some of the busiest red‑light camera programs.
Orange County – Cities like Anaheim, Irvine, and Santa Ana see heavy patrols on surface streets and school zones.
San Diego County – Speeding and lane‑change tickets are common along the I‑5 and I‑15 corridors.
Riverside and San Bernardino Counties – With long stretches of open freeway, CHP targets high‑speed drivers and aggressive lane changes.
Alameda County – Urban traffic around Oakland and the Bay Area leads to a high number of red‑light and stop‑sign violations.
