When you receive a ticket for a traffic violation, the police officer will give you two options: pay a penalty assessment or go to court to contest the ticket.
If the ‘Penalty Assessment’ box is checked on your citation, you must pay the penalty assessment by any of the options stated on the ticket. Courts allow for payment by mail, or in person at the address indicated. Some courts allow payment with a credit card over the phone. Payment options are always listed on the back of the ticket.
If the ‘Court Appearance’ or ‘Traffic Arraignment’ box is checked on your citation, you must appear in person in the specified Court by the date indicated on your citation. If you do not do so, the court will issue a bench warrant for your arrest, and the next time you try to renew your license, it may be suspended.