Navigating parking violations can be stressful, but paying your parking tickets doesn’t have to be. If you’ve received a parking ticket, understanding your payment options is crucial, especially if you decide not to contest it. Remember, if you intend to contest a parking ticket, do not pay it yet. Payment implies acceptance of responsibility and forfeits your right to dispute the ticket.
This guide focuses on how to efficiently handle your parking ticket payments, with a spotlight on online payment methods.
Important Notice Regarding Credit Card Payments: Be aware that reversing a credit card payment after paying your ticket can lead to complications. The system will treat it as non-payment, potentially resulting in penalties, default judgments, and referral to collections. Furthermore, it may restrict your ability to use credit or debit cards for future payments with the DC DMV.
Conveniently Pay Online
Paying your parking ticket online is often the quickest and most convenient method. To proceed with an online payment, ensure you have your ticket number readily available, along with your credit card details. The DC government website accepts major credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover, and American Express, for online transactions.
Paying by Mail: Step-by-Step Instructions
If you prefer to pay by mail, it’s essential to follow the correct procedures. Never send cash through the mail. Your payment must be in the form of a check or money order.
- Make Payable To: Ensure your check or money order is payable to DC Treasurer.
- Ticket Number: Write your ticket number clearly in the memo line of your payment. This helps ensure your payment is correctly applied to the specific violation.
- No Ticket Available? If you’ve misplaced your ticket, you can still make a payment. Write the ticketed vehicle’s state and license plate number on your check or money order (e.g., “MD Tag #ABC-123”). This will assist in locating your ticket information.
- Multiple Tickets: If you have multiple outstanding tickets and do not specify a ticket number, your payment will be applied to the oldest ticket first. To avoid misapplication, it’s always best to include ticket numbers for each payment.
- Penalty for Late Payment: It’s critical to pay your parking ticket promptly. If the DC DMV does not receive your payment within 30 calendar days from the ticket issue date (or the mailing date for photo tickets), a penalty equal to the original fine will be added. Avoid late fees by paying on time.
Mail your payment to the following address:
Adjudication Services PO Box 2014 Washington, DC 20013
Pay by Phone: Quick and Easy
For those who prefer phone transactions, paying by phone is another available option. You can call (866) 893-5023 to pay your parking tickets over the phone. Ensure you have your ticket number and payment information ready when you call to expedite the process.
In-Person Payment at the Adjudication Service Center
If you prefer making payments in person, you can visit the Adjudication Service Center. Remember to bring your parking ticket with you when you visit.
Location:
Adjudication Services 955 L’Enfant Plaza, SW Promenade Level – Suite P100 Washington, DC 20024
Accepted Payment Methods In-Person:
The Adjudication Services Center accepts a variety of payment methods, including:
- Cash
- Check
- Money Order
- Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express)
Identification Requirement: If you are paying with a method other than cash, you must present a valid form of photo identification. Accepted IDs include:
- Driver’s License
- DMV-issued ID
- Passport
- Military ID
Payments for Booted or Towed Vehicles
If your vehicle has been booted due to unpaid parking tickets, immediate payment of all outstanding tickets is required to release the boot. Note that DC DMV does not accept checks for the release of booted or towed vehicles. Ensure you use an accepted payment method like credit card, money order or cash if paying in person.
If your vehicle has been towed, you will need to contact DC 311 for further information and to locate your vehicle. Visit https://311.dc.gov/citizen/home or call 311 for assistance.
Important Clarification: It’s important to understand that the DC DMV does not handle vehicle booting, towing, or impoundment directly. These services are managed by the DC Department of Public Works (DC DPW). For detailed information regarding booting and impoundment, please visit the DC DPW website.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to pay your parking tickets, with an emphasis on the convenience of online payment options. By understanding these methods and acting promptly, you can efficiently resolve your parking violations and avoid additional penalties.
