Massachusetts Traffic Tickets: Fines, Penalties, and Payment
Are you a driver in Massachusetts? If so, you know how important it is to stay up-to-date on local traffic laws and regulations. After all, no one wants to get stuck with an expensive ticket or unnecessary points added to their record — which could lead to higher insurance costs! But researching these rules can be tricky; that’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on Massachusetts traffic tickets – so you’ll never have to worry about getting caught off guard.
Those receiving a Massachusetts traffic ticket have options in handling and paying them.
Yet – your options generally come down to the following:
- Pay them
- Contest them
You’ll need to either pay or successfully appeal these tickets, or you may face fines and further penalties. So, don’t hold off or ignore the notices coming to you in the mail!
You can typically pay your MA traffic tickets online, by phone, or by mail.
Massachusetts, like other states, uses a point system. The point system tracks your driving activities, and accumulating too many can result in additional penalties.
You’re welcome to check your driving records for information about your license and registration status. Otherwise, we recommend contacting your local DMV or talking with a traffic law professional as you move forward with handling your ticket(s) and points.
Massachusetts Traffic Fines & Penalties
Your fines and penalties depend on your actions and vary by the court’s decision. Your actions may cause higher fines and penalties depending on how many traffic points you have, too. You may also need to pay late fees if it’s not dealt with quickly.
Examples of incidents causing traffic and safety violations include:
- Reckless driving or racing
- Driving under the influence
- Failing to carry auto insurance
- Causing property damages
You may also get moving or non-moving violations like:
- Running a stop sign
- Distracted driving
- Faulty vehicle and operations
- Failing to follow traffic laws
For example, getting three speeding tickets within a 12-month period can result in a 30-day license suspension. Doing three violations within two years can result in a suspension, too. The penalties begin adding up for each subsequent penalty you add to your license and record.
How to Pay Your Massachusetts Traffic Ticket
The way you’ll pay your Massachusetts ticket depends if it’s civil or criminal. For civil traffic tickets, you can pay them online, by mail, or by phone. For criminal tickets, you’ll return to the court (usually four days after being issued) to handle the situation.
You have options when receiving a traffic ticket in Massachusetts:
- Pay the fine
- Request a hearing
You still need to pay the fines by their due dates, regardless if you’re contesting it.
Below, you’ll learn how to pay the ticket using the various systems:
Online
The online option is available if you have a civil ticket.
- Verify your traffic ticket
- Visit the online ticketing system
- Follow the on-screen prompts
- Pay your fines and fees
By Phone
To pay by phone – you will call in based on your area code:
- Area codes 339, 617, 781, or 857: (857) 368-8000
- Most other area codes: (800) 858-3926
Have your ticket information and number ready for when you call.
By Mail
- Sign and date the ticket
- Write a check to “MassDOT”
- Include the citation number and license number on the check
- Send your information
You will mail these documents to Citation Processing Center, P.O. Box 55890, Boston, MA 02205.
Hearings and When to Hire an Attorney
Failing to respond to your ticket can lead to a license suspension. You can slowly reduce points on your record (usually 1 point) by practicing safe driving for around three years.
Yet:
The process varies by your infractions, but you’ll typically have options in either reducing or dismissing the ticket. You may also appeal and contest the tickets outright to which you’ll request the hearing, go through the discovery, show up in court, and react based on what happens during the hearing.
Some drivers may be eligible to take a defensive driving course or get their ticket dismissed depending on their ticketing circumstances and how they act in court. A good driving record will help with your appeal and in reducing your ticket fines and fees.
