What is the difference between a citation and a ticket?

A citation and a ticket are two different types of documents that a law enforcement officer can issue when they believe a person has committed a violation of the traffic law. A citation is a written warning that states the suspected violation and orders the recipient to appear in court to answer to the charges. A citation does not involve any fines or penalties. It is considered an informal process where the officer and the violator agree to the violation and the officer does not have to appear in court. On the other hand, a ticket is an official document that is issued by the officer and can carry various levels of fines, fees, or penalties. A ticket is more serious than a citation and typically requires the recipient to appear in court. Depending on the violation, a ticket can result in the revocation of a person’s driver’s license or the vehicle’s license plates. Certain traffic violations may also require the violator to attend a driver education class or appear before the Washington Department of Licensing. In Washington State, both citations and tickets can have an impact on a person’s driving record. Even for minor violations, the courts may enter a conviction against a person’s record, resulting in additional charges and higher insurance premiums. Therefore, it is important to understand the difference between a citation and a ticket and take any traffic-related matters seriously.

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What is the difference between a citation and a ticket?

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