How to Use Online Trial by Declaration in California

Contest Your California Traffic Ticket Online

California's Online Trial by Declaration (OTBD) system is expanding across the state. For the first time, you can submit your written defense through the courts' MyCitations portal without visiting a courthouse or mailing anything.

Here is how it works: you look up your citation on MyCitations, choose the Online Trial by Declaration option, upload your written statement and any evidence, and submit. The issuing officer files a response. A judge reviews both sides and notifies you of the decision by email.

Simple, right? There is just one problem.

The Portal Submits Your Case. It Does Not Build It.

OTBD is a delivery mechanism. It handles the logistics of getting your declaration to the court. What it does not do is help you write a persuasive argument, identify the strongest defense strategies for your violation type, structure your statement for maximum impact, or know what evidence matters in your specific county and jurisdiction.

That is what TicketClear does.

We prepare your complete Trial by Written Declaration, tailored to your specific citation, violation code, county, and circumstances. You get a professional, evidence based declaration that you can submit through OTBD in participating counties or mail in everywhere else.

Where Is OTBD Available?

As of early 2026, OTBD is live in these counties:

• Amador County (live since 2025)
• Imperial County (live since 2025)
• Nevada County (live since December 2024)
• Sacramento County (live since December 2025)
• San Francisco County (live since December 2024)
• Siskiyou County (live since 2025)

Two additional courts plan to go live by April 2026, and up to five more will begin onboarding before the end of the year.

How TicketClear and OTBD Work Together

1. Start your case on TicketClear. Enter your citation details through our guided intake.
2. We prepare your declaration. Our system generates a professional, legally structured declaration customized to your violation.
3. Download your documents. Review, edit if needed, sign your declaration.
4. Submit to the court. In OTBD counties, upload through MyCitations. In other counties, mail it.
5. Wait for the decision. You will be notified by email (OTBD) or mail.

Ready to get started? Check if my ticket qualifies →