How to Fight a Stop Sign Ticket in Pennsylvania
If you got a stop sign ticket in Pennsylvania, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. A stop sign violation under § 3323(b) carries a $25 base fine plus a $45 surcharge (§ 6506) plus court costs of approximately $75–$100.
How to fight a stop sign ticket in Pennsylvania, step by step
Decide how to plead
Pleading not guilty preserves your right to contest the stop sign charge in Pennsylvania and review the evidence against you.
Check Pennsylvania's dismissal & mitigation options
A stop sign ticket (3 points) is eligible for the voluntary defensive driving course, which removes 2 points. The course can be used once every 3 years.
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 stop sign citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
A stop sign violation under § 3323(b) 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 Stop Sign ticket — frequently asked questions
What is Pennsylvania's stop sign law?
Stop sign violations in Pennsylvania are governed by 75 Pa.C.S. § 3323(b). Drivers must come to a complete stop at the marked stop line, or if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if neither exists, at the point where the driver has a view of approaching cross traffic. After stopping, the driver must yield to vehicles already in the intersection or approaching closely enough to be an immediate hazard. Source: 75 Pa.C.S. § 3323(b).
What is the fine for running a stop sign in Pennsylvania?
A stop sign violation under § 3323(b) carries a $25 base fine plus a $45 surcharge (§ 6506) plus court costs of approximately $75–$100. Total is typically $100–$150 or more. Fines double in active work zones.
How many points does a stop sign violation add in Pennsylvania?
A stop sign violation adds 3 points to your Pennsylvania driving record under § 1535. Points count toward the 6-point threshold and the 11-point automatic suspension threshold. Source: 75 Pa.C.S. § 1535.
How do I contest a stop sign ticket in Pennsylvania?
To contest a stop sign ticket, plead not guilty within 10 days of the citation. Post collateral (typically the full fine amount) to secure the hearing. Your hearing is before a Magisterial District Judge. The officer must appear and prove the violation beyond a reasonable doubt. You may cross-examine the officer and present your own evidence. If convicted, you have 30 days to appeal to the Court of Common Pleas for a new trial.
Can I take a defensive driving course for a stop sign ticket in Pennsylvania?
A stop sign ticket (3 points) is eligible for the voluntary defensive driving course, which removes 2 points. The course can be used once every 3 years. If this violation causes you to reach 6 total points, PennDOT will separately require either the written Special Point Examination or Driver Improvement School. Source: pa.gov/agencies/dmv.
What are the rules for a four-way stop in Pennsylvania?
At a four-way stop in Pennsylvania, the driver who stopped first has the right to proceed first. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right. Source: 75 Pa.C.S. § 3323.
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.