Red light cameras have become a common enforcement tool in cities across the United States and around the world. While most drivers understand that running a red light in their personal vehicle can result in a costly ticket, many people are caught off guard when the violation happens in a rental car. The process is more complicated than a standard ticket, involving the rental car company, municipal authorities, and sometimes additional fees.
This guide explains how rental car red light camera tickets work, what renters should expect, how fees are passed along, and strategies for avoiding extra charges.
How Red Light Camera Tickets Work
Red light cameras are automated systems designed to capture drivers who enter an intersection after the traffic signal has turned red. These systems use sensors in the road combined with cameras positioned at the corners of intersections.
When a violation is detected:
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The camera takes photographs and/or video of the vehicle entering the intersection.
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The system records the vehicle’s license plate.
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A law enforcement officer or authorized contractor reviews the footage to confirm the violation.
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A ticket is issued to the registered vehicle owner.
In the case of a rental car, the registered owner is not the driver—it’s the rental car company. This distinction leads to an extra step in the process.
What Happens If You Get a Red Light Ticket in a Rental Car?
When a red light camera violation occurs in a rental vehicle, the notice is mailed directly to the rental car company as the registered owner. The company then follows standard procedures to hold the renter accountable:
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Administrative Fee: Rental companies almost always charge an administrative fee (often between $25 and $75) to cover the cost of processing the ticket.
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Ticket Transfer: The company may pay the ticket first and then bill your credit card on file, or they may transfer liability by providing your name and address to the issuing authority.
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Notification: You’ll receive notice either directly from the rental company, the city, or both.
Common Fees and Costs
The actual cost of a rental car red light camera ticket can be higher than if you had been driving your own vehicle. Here’s why:
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Base Fine: Typically ranges from $50 to $500 depending on the state or municipality.
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Rental Company Processing Fee: Usually $25–$75, applied in addition to the fine.
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Late Fees: If the ticket is not paid promptly, penalties may accumulate.
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Credit Card Hold: Some companies automatically charge your credit card, which can be frustrating if you want to contest the ticket.
Do Rental Car Companies Always Pay First?
Policies vary:
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Pay First Model: Some companies immediately pay the fine to avoid liability and then charge the renter’s credit card.
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Transfer Model: Others forward the renter’s information to the city so the official ticket is reissued in the renter’s name.
For example, Hertz and Avis often use third-party services that specialize in processing traffic violations. These companies ensure the ticket is linked to the renter while still charging the administrative fee.
Can You Contest a Red Light Camera Ticket from a Rental Car?
Yes, but it’s more complicated than contesting one in your personal vehicle. Steps may include:
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Check the Evidence: Most jurisdictions provide online access to photo and video evidence. Confirm that the vehicle shown is the rental you were driving.
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Verify Your Rights: Depending on the state, renters may still have the legal right to contest the violation.
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Contact the Court Directly: If the ticket has been transferred into your name, you can appear in court or submit written testimony.
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Challenge Timing or Conditions: Defenses often include poor weather, unclear signage, or malfunctioning equipment.
Keep in mind, even if you contest the ticket successfully, you usually will not get the rental company’s administrative fee refunded.
State Variations in Enforcement
Red light camera laws vary widely by state:
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California: Tickets can exceed $500 and often include points on your license. Rental car companies charge significant processing fees in addition.
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New York: Fines are usually around $50, and violations are considered non-moving infractions (no points).
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Texas: Many cities banned red light cameras in 2019, but some municipalities still attempt to collect unpaid tickets.
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Florida: Tickets are typically $158, with notices sent directly to rental car companies if renters are involved.
Because the rules differ, it’s important to understand the state’s approach before you rent a car.
International Rentals and Red Light Cameras
The situation becomes even more complicated when renting a car abroad. Many countries in Europe, Asia, and Australia have extensive automated traffic enforcement systems.
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EU Countries: Rental companies will forward your information to local authorities, who then mail you the violation internationally.
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Australia: Known for heavy red light and speed camera use; tickets are expensive and almost always enforced through rental agencies.
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Canada: Similar to the U.S., with rental companies charging administrative fees and forwarding liability.
Failure to pay international fines may impact your ability to rent from that company in the future.
How Rental Car Companies Handle Tickets
Most major rental car agencies use third-party services like Verra Mobility or ATS Processing to manage red light and speed camera tickets. These services automate the process of identifying the renter, charging fees, and forwarding the violation.
Key rental brands and their approaches:
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Enterprise, Alamo, National: Forward renter details to issuing authority and charge an administrative fee.
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Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty: May pay tickets first and then bill your card.
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Avis, Budget: Typically provide renter details and let the city pursue the fine.
Tips for Renters to Avoid Red Light Camera Tickets
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Know the Law: Research traffic enforcement rules in the state or country where you’ll be driving.
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Drive Defensively: Always slow down at yellow lights and avoid rushing through.
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Watch for Signs: Many jurisdictions post “Photo Enforced” or red light camera warning signs.
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Use Apps: Navigation apps like Waze often alert drivers to camera-equipped intersections.
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Factor in Costs: Budget for potential administrative fees if you’re driving in a city known for camera enforcement.
Consequences of Ignoring a Ticket
Some renters mistakenly believe they can ignore a ticket because they don’t live in the issuing state. This is a mistake.
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Credit Card Charges: The rental company can (and will) charge your card on file.
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Collections: Unpaid tickets may be sent to collections, damaging your credit score.
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Future Rentals: Companies may blacklist renters who fail to resolve violations.
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Legal Implications: In some states, unpaid tickets may prevent you from renewing your license or registration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will a rental car red light ticket go on my driving record?
A: In some states, yes. In others, red light camera tickets are considered civil infractions with no points attached.
Q: Can I refuse to pay the rental company’s administrative fee?
A: No. By signing the rental agreement, you authorize them to charge for processing violations.
Q: What if someone else was driving the rental car?
A: You are still contractually responsible unless you listed the additional driver on the agreement.
Q: Do all intersections with red light cameras have warning signs?
A: Many do, but not all. Requirements vary by jurisdiction.
Q: How quickly will I be notified of a violation?
A: Usually within 1–3 weeks. Some renters are surprised months later if the violation happened internationally.
Final Thoughts
Rental car red light camera tickets are more than just a nuisance—they can be expensive and stressful. Between the fine itself and administrative fees, the cost often doubles compared to a violation in your own car.
The best approach is prevention: drive carefully, obey traffic signals, and research the traffic laws where you’re renting. If you do get a ticket, act quickly to avoid escalating fees and protect your ability to rent in the future.
For travelers, the lesson is clear: when in doubt, stop at the red light—even in a rental car.