How to Fight a Stop Sign Ticket in Tennessee
If you got a stop sign ticket in Tennessee, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. A stop sign violation is generally a Class C misdemeanor in Tennessee under TCA §55-8-149.
How to fight a stop sign ticket in Tennessee, step by step
Decide how to plead
Pleading not guilty preserves your right to contest the stop sign charge in Tennessee and review the evidence against you.
Check Tennessee's dismissal & mitigation options
Tennessee's traffic school removes up to 5 points for speeding convictions (once per 4 years). For other violations, courts may allow diversion to traffic school at the judge's discretion.
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 is generally a Class C misdemeanor in Tennessee under TCA §55-8-149.
Show up prepared
Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Tennessee 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 →Tennessee Stop Sign ticket — frequently asked questions
What is Tennessee's stop sign law?
Stop signs in Tennessee are governed by TCA §55-8-149. Drivers approaching a stop sign must stop at the marked stop line, or if none, before entering the crosswalk, or if neither, before entering the intersection. After stopping, yield to vehicles already in or approaching as an immediate hazard. Source: TCA §55-8-149.
What is the fine for running a stop sign in Tennessee?
A stop sign violation is generally a Class C misdemeanor in Tennessee under TCA §55-8-149. The maximum base fine for a Class C misdemeanor is $50 under TCA §40-35-111. Court costs and other fees are added separately, making the total amount typically $100 to $300 or more depending on the county court.
How many points does a stop sign violation add in Tennessee?
A stop sign violation likely adds points to your Tennessee driving record under TCA §55-50-338 as a traffic control device violation. The exact point value is confirmed in TCA §55-50-338 — verify the current schedule at tn.gov/safety. Reaching 12 or more points within a 12-month period may trigger a license suspension.
Can I take traffic school for a stop sign ticket in Tennessee?
Tennessee's approved driver education course (4 hours) removes up to 5 points from your driving record, but it is confirmed for speeding violations only. Whether it applies to stop sign violations depends on the court and the judge's discretion. Contact your General Sessions Court clerk to ask about diversion options. Source: tn.gov/safety.
How do I contest a stop sign ticket in Tennessee?
To contest a stop sign ticket in Tennessee, appear in General Sessions Court at the date, time, and location listed on your citation. You can request a trial before the judge. You have the right to cross-examine the citing officer and present your own evidence. If convicted in General Sessions Court, you may appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days for a completely new trial.
What are the rules for a four-way stop in Tennessee?
At a four-way stop in Tennessee, the first driver to stop has the right to proceed first. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right. Source: TCA §55-8-149 and general right-of-way rules.
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.