Red light camera tickets have become a controversial and increasingly common way for municipalities across the U.S. to enforce traffic laws. While they’re designed to promote safety and reduce accidents at intersections, many drivers feel blindsided when they receive a citation in the mail. If you’ve received one — or want to know how to avoid it — this guide covers everything you need to know about red light camera tickets, from legality and process to costs and how to fight them.
What Is a Red Light Camera Ticket?
A red light camera ticket is a citation issued to a vehicle owner when a traffic enforcement camera captures their car running a red light. These cameras are typically installed at busy or dangerous intersections and are triggered when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red.
The system photographs the license plate, and in some cases, records a short video clip. The ticket is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle, typically within a few weeks of the incident.
What’s Included in the Citation?
When you receive a red light camera ticket, the citation usually includes:
- The date and time of the offense
- The location of the intersection
- Photographs or a link to video evidence
- The amount of the fine
- A due date for payment or contesting
- Instructions for how to pay or dispute the ticket
Are Red Light Camera Tickets Legal?
Yes — in many states, red light cameras are legal. However, they are not allowed everywhere, and the rules vary significantly by state and even by city.
As of 2025:
- States that broadly allow red light cameras include: California, Illinois, Arizona, Florida, and New York
- States that ban or restrict them include: Texas, Mississippi, and New Hampshire
- Some states only permit cameras in specific jurisdictions or under specific regulations
Always check your local traffic laws to determine if red light camera enforcement is active in your area.
How Much Do Red Light Camera Tickets Cost?
The cost varies by state and municipality but typically ranges between $50 and $250. Some cities impose additional fees if you pay late, and in certain areas, failing to pay can impact your credit or result in a hold on your vehicle registration.
For example:
- Chicago, IL: $100
- Los Angeles, CA: Around $490
- Phoenix, AZ: $165
- Miami, FL: $158
Note: Unlike traditional traffic tickets, some red light camera citations are considered civil violations, not moving violations — meaning they may not add points to your driving record. However, this depends entirely on your jurisdiction.
Do Red Light Camera Tickets Go on Your Driving Record?
It depends on where you live.
In many states, red light camera tickets are treated as non-moving violations and do not add points to your record. However, in other jurisdictions, the ticket may be treated the same as if a police officer had pulled you over, which could lead to:
- Points on your license
- Increased insurance premiums
- Potential driver’s license suspension (in extreme cases)
Check your state DMV or court system’s website for specific consequences in your area.
Can You Fight a Red Light Camera Ticket?
Yes — you can contest a red light camera ticket, and many drivers are successful, especially if there is a technical error or legal issue. Valid defenses may include:
- The vehicle was not yours (e.g., stolen or sold before the date of the offense)
- Someone else was driving (some states allow owner to identify the actual driver)
- You legally entered the intersection on yellow, but the camera captured you exiting
- Improper signage or lack of notice that cameras were in use
- Blurry or unclear evidence
To fight the ticket, you typically must request a hearing before the deadline indicated on the citation. In many cases, this process can be done online or in writing.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
Ignoring a red light camera ticket can result in escalating consequences, such as:
- Additional fines and late fees
- Referral to collections (hurting your credit score)
- Vehicle registration holds
- In some cases, a court judgment against you
Even if you’re unsure about the validity of the ticket, it’s crucial to respond promptly. Ignoring it rarely works in your favor.
Tips to Avoid Red Light Camera Tickets
- Be cautious at intersections. Don’t try to “beat the yellow light.”
- Know where cameras are. Many cities post lists of red light camera locations online.
- Don’t block intersections. Even if you had a green light, entering an intersection that’s already full can trigger a violation.
- Use traffic apps. Apps like Waze often notify users of camera locations.
- Make full stops before turning right on red where required.
Are These Tickets Just About Safety?
This is a hotly debated issue. Supporters argue that red light cameras:
- Reduce fatal accidents
- Deter risky driving behavior
- Free up police resources
Critics argue they’re:
- Revenue-generating tools for cities
- Prone to errors and abuse
- Disproportionately affect low-income drivers
In fact, several cities have shut down their camera programs due to public backlash or evidence that accident rates didn’t significantly decline.
Are There Defensive Driving Options for Red Light Camera Tickets?
Some states allow drivers to take a defensive driving course to dismiss a red light camera citation, but this is not universal. You’ll need to check:
- If your state allows it
- If your violation qualifies
- If the course provider is approved by the court or DMV
Taking such a course may help avoid points on your license or reduce the financial penalty.
Conclusion
Red light camera tickets are a modern twist on traditional traffic enforcement, blending technology with law. While they serve a legitimate purpose in promoting intersection safety, they also raise concerns around fairness, accuracy, and transparency.
Understanding your rights, the local laws, and how to respond can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you decide to pay, contest, or attend a defensive driving course, staying informed is the best way to navigate a red light camera ticket — and avoid future violations.