What's the Difference Between a Citation and a Ticket?
A citation and a ticket are two terms that are frequently used interchangeably and have the same basic meaning: You've been charged with a minor traffic violation and must pay a fine or appear in court. A citation or ticket may affect your car insurance rates in addition to a monetary fine.
Though citation and ticket have the same meaning, you're more likely to hear one of them than the other. Let's take a closer look at each word, and then see how a traffic infraction on your driving record can raise your car insurance.
Is a Citation a Ticket?
A citation and a ticket are the same thing. However, there are some instances when one word is preferred over the other. Here is a quick overview to help you understand these two words better.
When Is the Word “Citation” Used?
The term "citation" is a little more formal than "ticket." It's a directive for an official document requiring a person to respond to a minor offense, though major offenses like drunken driving can also result in a citation.
Here are four instances when the word "citation" may be used instead of the word "ticket":
- When you need to enter your citation number online.
- When it is time to pay your citation fee.
- When you challenge your citation.
- If you are required to appear in court for your citation.
When Is the Word “Ticket” Used?
"Ticket" is less formal than "citation," but it still means the same thing. It's a legal document that outlines what you've been accused of doing and what steps you must take to resolve the situation.
Here are four examples of when you'll see (or hear) the word "ticket" instead of "citation":
- When a police officer writes you a ticket.
- When referring to a specific type of traffic infraction, such as a speeding ticket or a parking ticket.
- When you lose your ticket and need a replacement issued.
- When your insurer inquires about your driving record.
How Citations Affect Your Insurance
Your driving record has a significant influence on the cost of car insurance. If you have one or more traffic citations, you will almost certainly pay more than someone who does not.
However, not all citations have the same impact on your car insurance. States assign demerit points to various moving violations, and the more points you have, the more difficult it is to insure you because those points represent multiple and potentially serious citations.
If this is your first infraction in the last three years and it is a minor speeding ticket, your insurance rates may not rise. Parking citations and other non-moving violations may also have no bearing on your insurance. If you previously had a safe driving discount, you may lose it if you get a speeding ticket.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get a traffic ticket dismissed?
A traffic ticket can sometimes be dismissed. If you are a safe driver in general and have no recent violations or deferrals on your record, you may be able to request a deferral or deferred disposition. This is comparable to probation. If you meet the requirements listed by your state for the entire length of the deferral period, your ticket may be dismissed.
Furthermore, some states will dismiss your ticket if you complete a safe driving course. If you make the changes required by a "fix-it" ticket, such as a broken taillight or an expired driver's license, you may also have your traffic ticket dismissed.
What happens if you plead not guilty to a traffic ticket?
If you believe you did not deserve the ticket or if there are other circumstances that should be considered, you have the right to plead not guilty in court. If you choose this option, the exact protocol depends on your location. In general, you can represent yourself or hire an attorney. You must appear in front of the judge and explain why you do not believe you are guilty of the violation.
What happens if you don’t pay a traffic ticket?
If you do not pay your traffic ticket, you may face additional fines, a suspension of your license, and possibly even jail time. To avoid this, always respond to traffic tickets by the deadline specified on the ticket.