Below are the options available to you for Hamilton County traffic tickets as well as our recommended best choice for your Hamilton County traffic citation:
Complete an IN BMV-Approved Defensive Driving Course
Taking an IN BMV approved defensive driving course is the fastest and most reliable way to handle your Hamilton County traffic ticket. You will avoid points from appearing on your driving record and keep your insurance rates from going up.
You will still be required to pay the whole ticket fine. When paying the fine, you will be given the option to take an Hamilton County defensive driving course. We offer IN Defensive Driving Online. This is a simple option that can be done 24/7 from your computer without having to leave your home.
To pay your ticket/request to attend defensive driving or to request an extension, you may do so in the following ways:
- In person. Check your ticket to see what Hamilton County Court your ticket was assigned to. You can also request installment payments for the cost of the ticket. Your defensive driving dismissal will not be entered by the court until the entire balance is paid in full.
- Have your ticket and driver license information ready to find your citation information.
What to Do After Completing Defensive Driving:
Once you complete your online course, you are almost done. Your defensive driving course completion will be electronically transmitted to the IN BMV. You will be responsible for submitting your proof of completion certificate if your court requires you.
Five Things to Look for When Choosing an Hamilton County Defensive Driving Course:
- Is it licensed by the IN BMV?
- Will they process your completion certificate before your due date?
- Are there any hidden fees? If the pricing seems too good to be true, it might be. Make sure the price includes reporting, certificate, customer support, etc.
- Does the school offer 24/7 support? If you’re cutting close to your due date and have a question, you’ll want to speak to knowledgeable customer support.
- Is it easy to use? Not all courses are created equal. Make sure the course will save you progress when you need to stop and take a break. Also, make sure you can access the course on any electronic device at any time.
Other Options You Have for Your Traffic Tickets
Pay your citation:
Traffic ticket fines must be paid prior to the due date or penalties will incur. If you pay your ticket fee, you will not be allowed to attend defensive driving.
Fight the ticket:
If you feel you are innocent of the violation, you may contest your citation by appearing in court and entering a plea of not guilty. To do this, you must:
- Submit a written request for a court trial.
- Pay the full amount of bail, which is indicated on the notice you should have received in the mail.
Your written request for a court trial, along with a check for the full bail amount may be submitted to the court clerk’s office in person or by sending to the court address listed on your ticket. If you are declared innocent of the violation by the judge, your traffic ticket will be dismissed, and your fines will be refunded to you by the Hamilton County traffic court. Keep in mind that if you choose this option, some judges won’t let you enroll into defensive driving.
If you do decide to fight your ticket, you have two options:
- Appear in court to fight it.
- Have trial by declaration by preparing your case in writing and sending it in.