Paying Your Traffic Ticket

Before paying your traffic ticket, remember that your payment is considered an admission of guilt. If you believe you are not guilty of the charge, you may wish to make a court appearance to dispute the fine.

Note that signing for your ticket when the officer issues it to you does not mean that you have admitted guilt. Your signature is merely considered proof that you received the ticket.

If you've decided to pay your traffic ticket, you can simply mail a check or money order to the address listed on the ticket. Generally, you pay the amount listed next to "Total Fine/Costs" on or before the court date. If you have a question about your fine, contact the Clerk of Court in the county listed on the ticket for more information.

For your convenience, some types of Iowa traffic tickets can be paid online. If you wish to use a credit card, an online payment is the easiest choice.

Do I Have to Pay the Fine if My Ticket is Incorrect?

Many Iowa drivers mistakenly believe that an error on a traffic ticket is automatic grounds for dismissal. However, courts often excuse misspelled names, wrong addresses, incorrect vehicle colors, or other minor errors.

Generally, only a major error such as listing the wrong location of the violation or citing the wrong statute may result in a dismissal.

What Happens if I Don't Pay?

If you need to drive on a regular basis, refusing to pay your traffic ticket isn't a good idea. Your license may be suspended if you fail to pay your ticket by the due date.

After your license has been suspended, you will not be able to legally drive until the Office of Driver Services receives proof you have paid all the necessary fees, fines, and court costs. The suspension will also be listed on your Iowa driving record, possibly leading to an increase in your insurance premiums. In some cases, the suspension may even affect your future job prospects.

What Should I Do if I Lost My Ticket?

If you've misplaced your ticket, you can obtain a copy by submitting a check or money order for 50 cents to:

• Office of Driver Services

• Iowa Dept. of Transportation

• 6310 SE Convenience Blvd.

• Ankeny, IA 50021

• Mailing address:

• P.O. Box 9204

• Des Moines, IA 50306-9204

Remember to include a written request containing the date of the ticket, your mailing address, and your Iowa driver's license number with your payment.