BAIL DEPOSIT GUIDE
How to pay your bail deposit
Before filing a Trial by Written Declaration, California courts require you to post a bail deposit equal to the fine amount on your citation. Find your county's payment portal below.
What is a bail deposit?
When you choose to contest a California traffic ticket by Trial by Written Declaration (CVC 40902), the court requires you to first post a bail deposit equal to your fine amount. 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: The deposit is applied toward your fine — the same as if you had simply paid the ticket.
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.
Find your county's payment portal
Select your county to see payment options and court contact information.
No counties match your search.
Online payment available · Bail amount = fine amount shown on your citation · Estimate your fine →
Paid your deposit? Ready to generate your declaration?
Once your bail deposit is confirmed, come back and generate your Trial by Written Declaration. Takes about 10 minutes.
Generate my declaration