Florida Civil Traffic Tickets – Know Your Options

If you’ve received a civil traffic citation in Florida, you have legal options—and making the right decision can save you from points, insurance increases, or CDL disqualification. Attorney Kate Mesic represents both everyday drivers and CDL holders, and help clients resolve traffic tickets with minimal consequences.

 What Is a Civil Traffic Violation in Florida?

A civil traffic ticket is a non-criminal infraction punishable by a fine and points on your driving record, and potential administrative penalties. Unlike criminal offenses, you cannot go to jail for a civil traffic violation, but they can still impact your license and insurance for years to come.

Common Civil Traffic Tickets (With Statutes & Points)

Dismissed Tickets Still Appear on Your Driving Record

Many drivers are surprised to learn that even dismissed tickets remain visible on your official Florida driving record. While they may not result in points or penalties.

Important: Florida does not allow removal or expungement of civil citations once issued—even if they are dismissed.

What Are My Legal Options if I get a Ticket?

1. Elect Traffic School if eligible

• Result: No points added
• Must be elected within 30 days
• Allowed once every 12 months, up to 5 times total
• Not available to CDL holders
• Ticket still appears on record as “adjudication withheld”
• Must follow instructions on the clerk’s website. Different counties have different requirements.

2. Pay the Ticket – DON’T DO THIS.

• Considered an admission of guilt
• Points will be assessed
• Ticket becomes part of your permanent driving history
• May increase insurance premiums

3. Attorney Requests a Hearing or You Request a Hearing

• Opportunity to resolve the ticket before a hearing officer – note this is not where you argue your case
• Can result in:
  • Reduced fine
  • No points
• You may retain an attorney to appear on your behalf

✅ 4. Proceed to Trial with an Attorney or by yourself

• Conducted before a judge or a hearing officer
• Legal representation is strongly recommended
• Offers full opportunity to contest:
  • Officer observations
  • Calibration records
  • Witnesses and evidence

Special Rules for CDL Drivers

Commercial drivers are subject to federal motor carrier safety regulations and Florida statutes. Civil infractions—no matter how minor—can have major career consequences:

• Traffic school is not available for CDL holders
• Many violations (e.g., speeding, improper lane change) are classified as “serious CDL violations” under 49 CFR §383.51
• Multiple citations within 3 years can lead to disqualification of your CDL

We strongly advise CDL holders never to pay a ticket without speaking to a traffic defense attorney.

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions about Florida Traffic Ticket Options (FAQs)

1. Should I fight a civil traffic ticket or just pay it?

Paying admits guilt, results in points, and adds to your permanent record. It’s almost always worth exploring your legal options first.

2. Can I remove a civil traffic ticket from my record if it’s dismissed?

No. In Florida, dismissed tickets remain visible on your driving record and cannot be expunged or sealed.

3. How do I know if I’m eligible for traffic school?

You’re eligible if:

• You haven’t elected traffic school in the past 12 months
• You haven’t used traffic school more than 5 times total
• You do not hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL)

4. What happens if I ignore a traffic ticket?

Your driver’s license will be suspended, and additional fees will apply. The clerk will issue a D-6 suspension until it’s resolved.

5. Can an attorney appear in court for me?

Yes. We can attend hearings on your behalf and often resolve the matter without you needing to appear. Clients usually only appear for trial.

6. Will fighting the ticket guarantee dismissal?

No outcome is not guaranteed, but hiring a skilled attorney greatly increases the chance of dismissal or reduction. If choosing a hearing, not a trial, the outcome will depend on your personal situation and your driving history.

7. What happens if the officer doesn’t show up for a traffic ticket trial? 

If the officer fails to appear for trial, the judge or hearing may dismiss the case, depending on the circumstances.

8. Will a civil ticket affect my insurance?

Yes. Insurers access your driving record, and points or adjudications can cause premium increases or loss of coverage.

9. Are red light camera tickets civil or criminal?

Red light camera violations are civil citations, but failure to pay can lead to license holds or collections.

In Florida, a red light camera violation is initially treated as a civil notice of violation under §316.0083, not a formal traffic citation. These notices are mailed to the vehicle owner and:

• Carry a $158 penalty
• Do not assess points
• Do not go on your driving record if paid within the notice period (usually 60 days)

What Happens If You Ignore It?

If the notice is not paid or contested, it escalates into a Uniform Traffic Citation (UTC):

• The penalty increases (typically over $260)
• The violation may now appear on your driving record
• Failure to pay can result in a license suspension and referral to collections
• A court appearance may be required to resolve it

What You Can Do:

You may contest the notice by requesting an administrative hearing within the notice period. Once it becomes a formal citation, you have the right to:

• Pay the increased fine
• Request a court hearing
• Contest it at trial (e.g., incorrect vehicle, timing, visibility issues)

Speak to a Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney Today

Whether you're a regular driver or a professional CDL driver, resolving a civil traffic citation the right way can protect your record, your license, and your livelihood.

Call Attorney Kate Mesic now for a free consultation, or use our online form to get started.