To contest a traffic ticket, you must appear at the courthouse.

  • Confirm Your Court Date

    Confirm your traffic violation and court by looking at “Section IV: Summons” on your traffic citation. On the day of your court appearance, arrive early and go to your assigned courtroom.

  • Appear in Court

    Appear in court on your court date. Do not miss your court appearance. If you miss your court date, the court will ask the Georgia Department of Driver Services to suspend your driver’s license until the case is resolved.

  • Submit Your Plea

    During your court appearance, the judge will hear your plea and make a decision. You can: plead guilty and pay the fine, plead not guilty and request a jury trial, or plead Nolo Contendere (“No contest”). Please read the Georgia Department of Driver Services Traffic Court Reference Manual to learn about the implications of each plea.

  • Receive a Verdict

    If you plead not guilty at your arraignment, the court may schedule a trial to hear your case.

    If the court ultimately finds you guilty, the court will forward notice of the conviction to the Georgia Department of Driver Services. Any points associated with your citation will be placed on your driving record and the case will be closed. See a list of offenses reported to the DDS.