How to Fight a Speeding Ticket in Connecticut
If you got a speeding ticket in Connecticut, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Infraction base fines under CGS § 14-219 (before surcharges): approximately $50 for 1–9 mph over; $53–$65 for 10–14 mph over; $68–$86 for 15–21 mph over; approximately $90 for 22+ mph over.
How to fight a speeding ticket in Connecticut, step by step
Decide how to plead
Yes — the Online Ticket Review (OTR) Program run by the Centralized Infractions Bureau (CIB). Plead not guilty online at jud.ct.gov or by phone (860-263-2750).
Check Connecticut's dismissal & mitigation options
Yes — the Online Ticket Review (OTR) Program run by the Centralized Infractions Bureau (CIB). Plead not guilty online at jud.ct.gov or by phone (860-263-2750).
Request the evidence in your case
Ask the court for the officer's notes and any photos, device records, or calibration logs relied on to issue your speeding citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
Infraction base fines under CGS § 14-219 (before surcharges): approximately $50 for 1–9 mph over; $53–$65 for 10–14 mph over; $68–$86 for 15–21 mph over; approximately $90 for 22+ mph over.
Show up prepared
Connecticut classifies speeding into three tiers: (1) INFRACTION — below 70 mph on a limited-access highway or below 60 mph on other roads. Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
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Start my free court prep →Connecticut Speeding ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the statute for speeding in Connecticut?
Speeding in Connecticut is governed by CGS § 14-219 (speeding) and CGS § 14-218a (operating at an unreasonable rate of speed). Work zone enhancements apply under CGS § 14-219a. School zone provisions apply additional surcharges.
How are speeding violations classified in Connecticut?
Connecticut classifies speeding into three tiers: (1) INFRACTION — below 70 mph on a limited-access highway or below 60 mph on other roads. No mandatory court appearance if paying; 1 point assessed. (2) VIOLATION — 70+ mph on a limited-access highway or 60+ mph on any other road (up to 85 mph). Mandatory $100–$150 fine and required court appearance. (3) MISDEMEANOR (Reckless Driving, CGS § 14-222) — 85+ mph on any road automatically triggers a reckless driving charge. First offense: $100–$300 fine, up to 30 days jail, 30–90 day license suspension.
What are the fines for a speeding infraction in Connecticut?
Infraction base fines under CGS § 14-219 (before surcharges): approximately $50 for 1–9 mph over; $53–$65 for 10–14 mph over; $68–$86 for 15–21 mph over; approximately $90 for 22+ mph over. Important: Connecticut adds mandatory surcharges — a Special Transportation Fund surcharge (50% of base fine), a $15 court cost, a $20–$35 general surcharge, a $5 speeding assessment, and a $25 safety surcharge. A $50 base fine typically reaches approximately $157 total after all surcharges. Verify the total with the Centralized Infractions Bureau (CIB) at 860-263-2750.
How many points does a speeding ticket add in Connecticut?
A standard speeding infraction under CGS § 14-219 adds 1 point under Conn. Agencies Regs. § 14-137a-5. Points remain on your record for 24 months. Thresholds: 6+ points = warning letter from DMV; 10+ points = 30-day suspension; 10 more points within 5 years after a suspension = up to 2-year suspension.
Is there a way to contest a speeding ticket and potentially have it dismissed in Connecticut?
Yes — the Online Ticket Review (OTR) Program run by the Centralized Infractions Bureau (CIB). Plead not guilty online at jud.ct.gov or by phone (860-263-2750). A prosecutor reviews your case within approximately 4–5 weeks and may: (1) nolle (drop) the charge — no conviction, no points, no fine; (2) make a reduced offer (lower fine or amended charge); or (3) transfer to Superior Court for trial. This is the most practical first step before any court appearance and costs nothing to try.
Are work zone or school zone speeding fines higher in Connecticut?
Yes. Both school zones and construction/work zones apply a 100% surcharge on top of the base fine, effectively doubling the base penalty before other surcharges are stacked on top. Work zones covered under CGS § 14-219a.
What happens if I just pay my speeding ticket in Connecticut?
Paying is treated as a no-contest plea — the infraction is recorded on your driving record with 1 point assessed. Before paying, use the Online Ticket Review (OTR) Program — it costs nothing and gives you a chance at a nolle (dismissal with no points) or a reduced offer. Do not pay a violation-level ticket (70+ mph) without using OTR or appearing in court.
Zigpon is an educational self-help guide, not a law firm — this is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different; verify details with your court or a licensed attorney before acting.