How It Works

Contest your California traffic ticket from home in 6 simple steps. No lawyers. No courtroom. Just answer a few questions and download your filing packet.

Get Started

Select your violation type and confirm you have your citation handy. We walk you through the process, what you will need, and what to expect.

Scan Your Citation

Take a photo of your citation or enter your details manually. Our system reads the violation code, citation number, court information, fine amount, and due date automatically.

Q: What if the scan gets something wrong?

You can edit any field before continuing. If you prefer, you can skip the photo and enter everything manually.

Tell Your Story

Answer questions about what happened. Select the factors that apply to your situation: were signs unclear, were you keeping up with traffic, is this your first ticket? You can also describe road conditions and note any information missing from your citation. All answers are in your own words.

Q: What if none of the factors apply?

Select the ones that come closest. There are optional text fields where you can describe your specific circumstances.

Review Your Declaration

See a summary of everything you entered: citation details, your factors, and a preview of your declaration. Confirm the self-authorship statement and continue to payment.

Choose Your Plan

Pick Standard ($49.99) or Enhanced ($99.99). Both include your personalized declaration and completed TR-205 form. Enhanced adds photo evidence exhibits, multiple violation support, and email filing reminders. Your declaration is generated immediately after payment.

Download and File

Download your complete filing packet as a print ready PDF. It includes your TR-205 form (pages 1 to 2), your Declaration of Facts (pages 3 to 5), and a separate filing instruction sheet with your court's mailing address and a step by step checklist. Print everything, sign the declaration, include your bail deposit (check or money order payable to the court), and mail it all together.

Q: What happens after I mail it?

The court reviews your declaration and the citing officer's statement. A judge makes a decision and the court mails you the result. Processing times vary by county, typically 4 to 8 weeks.

About Your Bail Deposit

When you receive a traffic ticket, you typically post a bail deposit equal to the fine amount. This deposit is separate from TicketClear's service fee.

If the judge rules in your favor, your bail deposit is refunded. If the judge rules against you, your deposit is applied toward the fine, no additional penalties.

A Trial by Written Declaration carries no additional penalties beyond your existing fine.

Need More Time?

If your court deadline is approaching and you need more time to prepare, you may be able to request a continuance (an extension) from the court.

Most California courts allow at least one continuance for traffic infractions. The process typically takes about 5 minutes.

Learn how to request a continuance →

What courts do we cover?

TicketClear covers all 58 California counties. We maintain verified filing addresses and local rule requirements for every Superior Court traffic division in the state.

Find your court →

Ready to check your eligibility?

Answer 4 quick questions to see if your ticket qualifies. No account or payment required to check.

Check if my ticket qualifiesTakes 2 minutes. No payment required to check.