Florida Traffic Tickets: Real Answers to the Questions You're Probably Asking

Let’s be real — getting a traffic ticket is frustrating. Maybe you were in a hurry, missed a sign, or just had one of those days behind the wheel. Now you're stuck with a traffic citation, a fine, and a ton of questions.

At Cheapest Traffic School, we help Florida drivers understand the process. There is no stress, no confusion, and no courtroom chaos. Whether it's your first ticket or your fifth, here's everything you need to know about handling Florida traffic tickets the smart way.

What is a traffic citation, exactly?

A traffic citation is the official term for a traffic ticket in Florida. It’s a notice from law enforcement that you violated one of the Florida Statutes related to driving. Common reasons include speeding, running a red light, failing to yield, or not using your turn signal.

Your citation will usually come with a fine. It may also add points to your record. This can affect your Florida driver's license and your car insurance coverage.

How long do I have to respond?

In most cases, you have 30 days from the date of the ticket to take action. You can:

• Pay the fine

• Enroll in a traffic school course

• Contest the citation in court

Whatever you do, please don’t ignore it. If you don’t respond in time, your license will be suspended, and things get more complicated (and expensive).

What are my options after getting a traffic ticket?

Florida gives you three main choices:

1. Pay the fine – Quick and easy, but you’ll get points on your driving record.

2. Take a traffic school course – Our Basic Driver Improvement Course helps you avoid points and protect your insurance rates.

3. Fight it in court – You can plead not guilty and try to get the ticket dismissed, but this can be time-consuming and risky.

If this is your first or second offense, traffic school is often the best move.

Can a traffic school course really help?

Yes — and here’s why it matters.

Taking a Florida-approved Basic Driver Improvement Course helps you avoid points on your driver’s license. It keeps your license clean and can lower your car insurance costs. If you qualify, the State of Florida lets you take the course once every 12 months. You can take it up to five times in your lifetime.

Bonus: Our course online is easy, flexible, and works on your phone, tablet, or laptop.

Will my insurance go up?

It could. If points on your record show up, your insurance rates might increase. But if you complete a traffic school course, your violation stays off your official record — which can help keep your premiums from spiking.

Is the course available online?

Absolutely. Our Florida 4-Hour Basic Driver Improvement Course is 100% online, self-paced, and available 24/7. Whether you're at home or on the go, you can finish it whenever it's convenient for you.

👉 Start the 4-Hour Online Course Here

What types of traffic violations qualify?

Most non-criminal moving violations qualify, including:

• Speeding

• Running a stop sign or red light

• Careless driving

• Improper lane changes

• Failure to yield

If your ticket doesn’t require a mandatory court appearance, you can probably take the school course to handle it. Still unsure? Contact us — we’re happy to help.

What happens if I ignore my traffic ticket?

Not good. If you don’t respond within 30 days:

• Your Florida driver license may be suspended

• You’ll owe additional late fees

• You could face court costs or even a warrant

Take action early to avoid these headaches.

What if a judge ordered me to take a course?

No worries! Our 4-hour Basic Driver Improvement Course is accepted in all 67 Florida counties. It is approved by the Florida DHSMV. If your court says you need to take a school course, you can do that here.

Will you send my certificate to the state?

Yes! After you finish the course, we will send your Certificate of Completion to the Florida DHSMV. You will also receive a downloadable copy for your records.

Bottom Line: Handle Your Ticket the Smart Way

Florida traffic tickets don’t have to ruin your week — or your driving record. With our cheapest traffic school option, you can protect your license, keep your insurance low, and get back on the road with confidence.

👉 Take the Florida 4-Hour BDI Course Now