Got a camera ticket in San Francisco?

Here's how to check it's real, what it costs, and where to pay or contest it. Use the official city pages linked below for anything to do with your ticket.

Is it real?

Speed camera tickets are mailed automatically. Red-light citations are mailed to the registered owner within 15 days of the violation, and the court mails a separate courtesy notice within 30 days. (official source)

The SFMTA warns of texts claiming unpaid citations that link to a fake payment site, and says it does not request payment by text with a link. (official source)

Never pay through a link in a text message. Type the city's address into your browser yourself, or use the links on this page.

What it costs

Speed camera tickets are due within 30 days of the issue date. (official source)

For court traffic tickets, including red light, the court can add a $100 civil assessment if you fail to appear or pay, and refers delinquent citations to a collection agency. (official source)

Contesting it

For a speed camera ticket, start the protest (administrative review) within 30 days of the issue date; a hearing is available only after that review. (official source)

The city explains how to request a hearing on its official dispute page.

Payment plans and reduced fines

Speed camera tickets are cut 50% for low-income households and 80% for public-benefits recipients (e.g., $50 becomes $25 or $10); you choose one discount and must show proof. (official source)

The SFMTA says you may be able to do community service instead of paying a speed ticket. (official source)

For court traffic tickets such as red light, you can ask the court for an ability-to-pay review, which can reduce fines and fees by 50%-80% or more for benefits recipients or incomes under 250% of the federal poverty level. (official source)

Red-light camera tickets in San Francisco

San Francisco's red-light camera tickets are traffic infractions handled by the Superior Court, not SFMTA.

• Red-light camera tickets at the court
• Pay a court traffic ticket
• Contest a court traffic ticket

Red-light tickets are court Notices to Appear: act by the due date on the citation (arraignment, trial, or trial by written declaration); an owner who wasn't driving must return the driver-identification documents by that date. (official source)

A conviction for running a red light goes on your DMV record and adds a point, unless traffic school keeps it off for eligible drivers. (official source)

The SF Superior Court says it does not send traffic text messages; don't reply, click links or scan QR codes. (official source)

Points and your record

Speed camera tickets are civil penalties and add no points to your license or driving record. (official source)

Quick answers

How do I know a San Francisco camera ticket is real?

Speed camera tickets are mailed automatically. Red-light citations are mailed to the registered owner within 15 days of the violation, and the court mails a separate courtesy notice within 30 days.

How long do I have to contest it?

For a speed camera ticket, start the protest (administrative review) within 30 days of the issue date; a hearing is available only after that review.

Does it go on my driving record?

Speed camera tickets are civil penalties and add no points to your license or driving record.

What happens if I don't pay?

Speed camera tickets are due within 30 days of the issue date. For court traffic tickets, including red light, the court can add a $100 civil assessment if you fail to appear or pay, and refers delinquent citations to a collection agency.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Camera Tickets USA is independent and not affiliated with San Francisco or any government agency. We never ask for ticket numbers or license plates.

San Francisco camera ticket statistics · Ticket cost calculator