How to pay your bail deposit

When you choose to contest a California traffic ticket by Trial by Written Declaration (CVC 40902), most courts require you to first post a bail deposit equal to your fine amount (courts that offer online trial by declaration through MyCitations generally cannot require it in advance). This is not an additional charge — it is a deposit held by the court while your case is reviewed.

• If the judge rules in your favor: Your bail deposit is refunded in full and no points are added to your record.
• If the judge rules against you: Contesting is not risk-free. You have the same conviction and the same DMV points as if you had paid, and your bail deposit is applied to the fine, but the judge can set a fine higher or lower than the bail. Going to trial does not make you ineligible for traffic school, but after a guilty finding it is up to the judge.

The bail deposit amount equals the total fine shown on your citation. If you are unsure of the amount, contact your court clerk or use our fine calculator.