Rhode Island Traffic Tickets: How to Pay or Appeal Them

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Those having received a Rhode Island traffic ticket have options in handling and paying them.

Yet – your options generally come down to:

  • Pay them
  • Contest them

Whichever your choice, you’ll need to either pay or successfully appeal these tickets else you may face fines and further penalties.

You can typically pay your RI traffic tickets online, in person, by phone, or by mail.

You will receive points on your license when you get a traffic ticket. You’re welcome to check your driving records for information about the status of your license and registration. Otherwise, we recommend contacting your local DMV or talk with a traffic law professional in moving forward.

Rhode Island Traffic Fines & Penalties

The fines and penalties you get 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

Rhode Island doesn’t use a point-based system but, instead, keeps track of your driving. If you keep showing repeat tickets and offenses than this may lead to a license suspension or revocation!

How to Pay Your Rhode Island Traffic Ticket

Your traffic ticket will include a ticket or notice number which you’ll reference when paying it.

You have options when receiving a traffic ticket in Rhode Island:

  • 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 Traffic Tribunal ticket.

  1. Verify your traffic ticket
  2. Visit the online ticket payment system
  3. Follow the on-screen prompts
  4. Pay your fines and fees

In Person

  1. Locate your nearest municipal court
  2. Arrive with your ticket and/or ticket number
  3. Pay the appropriate fees

By Phone

You can call 866-263-0475 to pay by phone using a credit card.

Have your ticket information and number ready for when you call.

By Mail

  1. Write a check or get a money order
  2. Include the ticket # on the check
  3. Include the ticket if possible
    1. Or: Vehicle’s state and plate #
  4. Send your information

If you’re having issues paying your ticket, contact your local municipal court for further details. The clerks should provide you with detailed steps for moving forward based on your circumstances.

Appeals and When to Hire an Attorney

You may request to contest your tickets by a court hearing.

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 out-right 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.