How to Request an Extension on Your California Traffic Ticket

If your traffic ticket deadline is approaching and you are not ready to pay, contest, or appear, you may be able to request an extension. Most California courts allow at least one extension for traffic infractions, and the process is usually quick.

What an Extension Is

An extension (sometimes called a continuance) gives you additional time to respond to your citation. It does not change the violation or the fine amount. It simply moves your deadline. California courts generally grant extensions for traffic infractions because the alternative — a failure to appear that triggers a $100 civil assessment, collections, and potential license suspension — benefits no one.

How to Request One

The process varies by county, but there are typically three ways to request an extension:

• <strong>By phone</strong> — Call the court listed on your citation and ask for a traffic extension. Many courts handle this in a single call. You will need your citation number.
• <strong>Online</strong> — Some California courts allow extension requests through their websites or through the MyCitations platform. Check your court's website to see if this option is available.
• <strong>In writing</strong> — You can mail or deliver a written request to the court before your deadline. Include your name, citation number, and the reason for the request.

How Much Time Will You Get?

Most courts grant 30 to 60 additional days on the first request. Some allow a second extension, though this varies. The court is not required to grant an extension, but for a first request made before the deadline, approval is typical.

County Specific Notes

Court procedures differ across California's 58 counties. Here are some important variations:

• <strong>San Francisco</strong> does not grant traditional extensions. However, requesting a Trial by Written Declaration effectively resets your deadline, because the court issues a new due date on the TR-205 form.
• <strong>Los Angeles County</strong> allows extensions through its online portal, by phone, or in person.
• <strong>Orange County</strong> allows extensions online through its traffic case portal, by phone, or in person.
• <strong>San Diego County</strong> allows extensions by phone or in person.
• <strong>Sacramento, San Bernardino, Contra Costa</strong>, and most other counties allow phone or in-person extension requests.

What If You Have Already Missed Your Deadline?

If your deadline has passed and you have not responded, the court may have already added a $100 civil assessment under Penal Code section 1214.1. Even after a missed deadline, you can still contact the court to resolve your case. Many courts allow you to request a hearing to vacate the civil assessment if you can show good cause. You may also be able to set up a payment plan or request an ability-to-pay hearing. The sooner you act after a missed deadline, the fewer additional penalties accumulate.

The Relationship Between Extensions and TBWD

Requesting an extension and filing a Trial by Written Declaration are not the same thing, but they work together strategically. An extension gives you more time. TBWD gives you a way to contest the ticket without appearing in court. Many drivers request one or two extensions first, then file their TBWD before the extended deadline. This is within your rights under California law. There is nothing improper about using the time the court grants you.

Learn how Trial by Written Declaration works. What Is Trial by Written Declaration? →