Amnesty Program for Traffic Tickets

Starting January 1st through June 30th, 2012, drivers who have old unpaid traffic tickets might be able to catch a break. Certain unpaid traffic tickets are eligible for a 50 percent discount – if you clear the debt during this 6 month amnesty period.

The program includes all adult and juvenile vehicle code and non vehicle code infractions. Other traffic tickets due to be paid before January 1, 2009 could qualify too, but you will have to check with the court in the county where you got the ticket.

There are exclusions: no parking tickets, no DUIs, no reckless driving are eligible for the discount.*


Now here is the fine print – ALL of the following conditions must be met to be eligible:

  • You have an outstanding traffic debt that was due to be paid in full before January 1, 2009;
  • The last date you made a payment was on or before January 1, 2009;
  • You either failed to appear in court or failed to pay in ful;
  • You do not owe restitution to a victim on any case within the county where the violation was filed; AND 
  • You have no outstanding misdemeanor or felony warrants within the county where the violation was filed.

If other fees and assessments were added to your original fine, those will also be discounted 50 percent. The total amount you owe can be cut in half. You will have to pay if off in one lump sum, but you may be able to use a credit card. Cash and checks usually work, too. For details, and to check eligibility for your overdue court-ordered debt, contact the court where you got your violation after January 1, 2012.

*Note: Some counties may include certain adult vehicle code misdemeanor violations. Check with your local superior court after January 1, 2012 for specific eligibility in your county.

Court Locations

Jury Info, Court Info, Court Websites

Contact Info

Enhanced Collections
For more information or help, send an email to collections@jud.ca.gov

Amnesty Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will I be able to renew my driver's license after I satisfy the amnesty process?

A: Individuals who are unable to renew their driver's license due to unpaid tickets may have their driver's license hold or suspension released.

Q: What about "points" that the DMV adds to driving records?

A: The amnesty program does NOT eliminate points.

Q: Can I pay with a credit card?

A: You can pay in whatever form is customary in your county, which may include credit card, cash, cashier's checks, money orders, and personal checks.

Q: Can I set up a payment plan?

A: No. You must pay the full 50% of amounts due in one lump payment.

Q: Who gets the money collected?

A: The city, the county, the court, and the state.

Q: Who do I contact to see if my violation is eligible for the discount?

A: After January 1, 2012, contact the Superior Court in the county where the violation occurred. Click to fnd your court.

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