What is the difference between a citation and a ticket?

A citation and a ticket are two terms that refer to the same action: the process of being issued a fine. The difference between a citation and a ticket is mainly in how they’re used in legal terms. A citation is the more formal of the two, usually issued by a police officer for violations such as speeding or running a red light. A ticket is typically issued by a law enforcement officer, court, or other government entity for more serious infractions, such as a DUI. In Hawaii, citations and tickets are issued by the same government agency, the State Judiciary. When a driver is pulled over for a traffic violation, the officer will usually issue a citation. This citation will include a court date, the amount of the fine, and any other instructions. If the driver does not show up to the court date, the officer may issue a ticket with a higher fine. The main difference between a citation and a ticket is in the wording. Citations are more formal and are usually used in serious infractions. Tickets, while still formal, are less serious and often have a lesser fine. However, both citations and tickets have the same ultimate goal, which is to serve as a reminder to drivers to abide by the law and drive safely.

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What is the difference between a citation and a ticket?

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