Getting a red light camera ticket can be frustrating, but ignoring it might lead to bigger headaches than you think. Many drivers wonder what happens if they don’t pay a red light camera ticket. The answer varies by state, but unpaid tickets can lead to escalating fines, license issues, and even collections.
In this article, we’ll break down the consequences of not paying a red light camera ticket, how it affects your record, and what you can do if you believe you received the ticket unfairly.
What Is a Red Light Camera Ticket?
Red light cameras are automated systems installed at intersections to catch drivers running red lights. If your vehicle is photographed entering an intersection after the light turns red, a citation is mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner. These tickets usually include:
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A photo or video of the violation
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The date and time
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The location
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A fine amount (typically between $50–$150)
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
The consequences of ignoring a red light camera ticket can escalate quickly. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Additional Fines and Late Fees
Unpaid tickets usually accrue late fees. A $75 fine could double or triple if not paid by the due date.
2. Debt Collection
Cities often send unpaid red light camera tickets to third-party debt collectors. This can damage your credit score, making loans, mortgages, and credit approvals more difficult.
3. Vehicle Registration Holds
In states like California, Illinois, and New York, unpaid tickets can result in a hold on your vehicle registration renewal.
4. License Suspension
Although uncommon, some jurisdictions may eventually suspend your driver’s license if too many unpaid traffic violations accumulate.
5. Court Action
Some cities may take legal action to recover the money, including small claims court or wage garnishment if the fine goes unpaid for a long time.
Consequences by State: A Comparison Table
To help you understand how different states handle unpaid red light camera tickets, here’s a side-by-side breakdown:
| State | Ticket Type | Consequences of Non-Payment |
|---|---|---|
| California | Moving Violation | License suspension, court fines |
| Illinois | Civil Violation | Registration holds, boot/tow, collections |
| Texas | Civil Violation (mostly banned) | Debt collection (pre-2019) |
| New York | Non-Moving Violation | Registration renewal hold |
| Florida | Civil Infraction | License suspension, extra fines |
| Ohio | Civil Violation | Collections |
| Washington | Like Parking Ticket | Collections, registration issues |
| Arizona | Civil Violation | Default judgment, license suspension |
| Oregon | Traffic Violation | License suspension, debt collection |
| Nevada | Varies by City | Court action, DMV penalties |
Does a Red Light Camera Ticket Go on Your Record?
Whether a red light camera ticket affects your driving record depends on the state:
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In some states, like California, red light camera tickets are treated like moving violations and may add points to your license.
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In others, like Texas, these are treated as civil penalties and don’t impact your driving record or insurance.
Always check your state’s traffic laws to know what’s at stake.
Can You Fight a Red Light Camera Ticket?
Yes, you can contest the ticket. Here’s how:
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Request a hearing before the deadline.
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Gather evidence, such as showing you weren’t the driver or the light was yellow when you crossed.
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Challenge the accuracy of the camera or signage.
Some drivers successfully beat red light camera tickets due to blurry images, lack of posted signs, or incorrect vehicle identification.
Is It Ever Okay to Ignore the Ticket?
Not paying is risky. Some drivers gamble that cities won’t pursue non-payment, especially if they live out of state. While it's true some municipalities don't aggressively collect, others do—and the long-term consequences often outweigh the temporary relief.
Final Thoughts
So, what happens if you don’t pay your red light camera ticket? It can lead to growing fines, credit issues, vehicle registration blocks, and more. The best course of action is to either pay the ticket promptly or contest it through the proper legal channels.
Ignoring it won’t make it go away—and it could cost you far more in the long run.