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
Pleading not guilty preserves your right to contest the running a red light charge in Pennsylvania and review the evidence against you.
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
Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Pennsylvania court date — free
Get a guided prep chat for your exact violation, then a court-ready mock script you can rehearse.
Start my free court prep →Pennsylvania Running a Red Light ticket — frequently asked questions
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.