FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
- How much does it cost to defer my traffic ticket?
- What happens if I get another traffic ticket while I am participating in the deferral program?
- Will I have to go to court if I sign up for the deferral program?
- Who qualifies?
- Who does not qualify?
- What other sanctions may be imposed?
How much does it cost to defer my traffic ticket?
The fee for a moving violation is $252.50. Non-moving violations are $92.50. This will be paid at the Clerk’s Office after you are formally accepted into the program.
What happens if I get another traffic ticket while I am participating in the deferral program?
If you receive another ticket while you are still completing a term of deferral, you will be responsible for the court costs and fines associated with the original ticket. In addition, the violation will be forwarded to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
Will I have to go to court if I sign up for the deferral program?
No, you may contact the Prosecutor’s Office directly to enroll in the deferral program.
Who qualifies?
Persons charged with traffic infractions. In some instances, persons with multiple traffic infractions may be allowed to participate in the program. Below is a non-inclusive list of infractions to be considered. (Persons typically will be offered a 12-month deferral.)
Speeding
- 1-15 mph over the limit
- 16-25 mph over the limit
- Speeding at a rate of over 20 mph may result in a required course on defensive driving.
Driving While License Suspended
- Infractions only
- Must provide deferral program with proof of a valid driver’s license within 90 days of acceptance.
Probationary License Holders - (learner’s permits)
- Will be subject to Defensive Driving Course.
Other Possible Moving Violations (non-inclusive)
- Disregarding an automatic signal
- Disregarding a stop sign
- Driving left of center
- Improper passing
- Failure to signal
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Following too closely
- Improper lane usage - unsafe lane movement
- Improper stopping or standing
- Improper turn at intersection
- Unsafe start
- Operating without proof of financial responsibility
Non-moving Violations - (non-inclusive, three-month deferral)
- Equipment violation
- Expired driver's license
- Expired license plate
- False/fictitious registration
- No license in possession
Who does not qualify?
Certain types of violations are not permitted in the program, such as alcohol-related and traffic infractions involving an accident resulting in serious bodily injury or death. In addition, you will not be eligible if:
- You are a CDL (commercial driver's license) holder, driving in any capacity.
- You are in a deferral program in any other county.
- You have been convicted of a felony criminal offense in the last five years.
- You have been convicted of a misdemeanor criminal offense in the last 12 months.
- You are currently on probation or have a probation violation pending.
- You do not have a valid United States driver's license.
What other sanctions may be imposed?
- Proof of insurance
- Defensive driving course
- Substance abuse assessment and follow-up
- Community service
- Restitution
- Obtain valid driver's license
