How to Fight a Running a Red Light Ticket in Pennsylvania
If you got a running a red light ticket in Pennsylvania, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Running a red light under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3112 carries a $25 base fine plus a $45 surcharge (§ 6506) plus court costs of approximately $75–$100.
How to fight a red light ticket in Pennsylvania, step by step
Decide how to plead
To contest a red light ticket, plead not guilty within 10 days of the citation. A hearing will be scheduled before a Magisterial District Judge.
Check Pennsylvania's dismissal & mitigation options
Traffic summary offenses in Pennsylvania are heard before a Magisterial District Judge (MDJ). You have 10 days from the citation to respond — pay the fine (guilty plea) or request a hearing (not guilty).
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 running a red light citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
Running a red light under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3112 carries a $25 base fine plus a $45 surcharge (§ 6506) plus court costs of approximately $75–$100.
Show up prepared
Running a red light under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3112 carries a $25 base fine plus a $45 surcharge (§ 6506) plus court costs of approximately $75–$100. Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
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What is the fine for running a red light in Pennsylvania?
Running a red light under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3112 carries a $25 base fine plus a $45 surcharge (§ 6506) plus court costs of approximately $75–$100. Total cost is typically $100–$150 or more.
How many points is a red light ticket in Pennsylvania?
A red light conviction (police-issued) adds 3 points to your Pennsylvania driving record under § 1535. Points count toward the 6-point threshold (written exam or Driver Improvement School required) and the 11-point automatic suspension threshold. Source: 75 Pa.C.S. § 1535.
Can I turn right on red in Pennsylvania?
Turning right on a steady red light is permitted in Pennsylvania after making a complete stop, unless a 'No Turn on Red' sign is posted at the intersection.
How do red light camera tickets work in Pennsylvania?
Red light camera tickets under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3116 are civil penalties with a maximum fine of $100 and ZERO points. They do not appear on your driving record and cannot affect your insurance rates. Pennsylvania only authorizes red light cameras in specific municipalities — if you received a camera ticket in a jurisdiction without an authorized program, it may be legally challengeable. Source: 75 Pa.C.S. § 3116.
Can I appeal a red light ticket in Pennsylvania?
Traffic summary offenses in Pennsylvania are heard before a Magisterial District Judge (MDJ). You have 10 days from the citation to respond — pay the fine (guilty plea) or request a hearing (not guilty). Pennsylvania uses a point system under 75 Pa.C.S. § 1535: when you reach 6 points, PennDOT requires either a written Special Point Examination or Driver Improvement School; 11 points triggers automatic suspension. A voluntary defensive driving course removes 2 points and can be used once every 3 years. Convictions generally appear on your record for 5 years. If convicted by an MDJ, you have 30 days to appeal to the Court of Common Pleas for a brand-new trial (de novo). For the most accurate information, refer to the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code (Title 75) at palegis.us or PennDOT at pa.gov/agencies/dmv.
How do I contest a red light ticket before a Magisterial District Judge?
To contest a red light ticket, plead not guilty within 10 days of the citation. A hearing will be scheduled before a Magisterial District Judge. You must post collateral (typically the full fine amount) to request a hearing. The officer must testify and prove the violation beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, you have 30 days to appeal to the Court of Common Pleas for a new trial.
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.