How much is a ticket for running a red light? Quick Answer
- A ticket for running a red light in 2025 typically costs between $50 and $150, but fines can exceed $500 in California and reach up to $1,000 in Oregon. Most states treat red light camera tickets as civil infractions without license points, but a few states, like California and Arizona, do apply points.
How Much Does a Red Light Camera Ticket Cost?
Red light camera fines vary dramatically from state to state. In most places, they range from $50 to $150, though some are higher. California, for instance, charges a base fine of $100, but once administrative and court fees are added, the total often exceeds $500. Oregon takes it even further, with penalties reaching $1,000.
On the lower end, New York charges just $50, and Georgia caps the fine at $70. Most states do not treat red light camera violations as criminal offenses, and the tickets usually don’t add points to your license. Only a few states, like California and Arizona, specifically mention that these tickets do add points to your driving record.
Red Light Camera Fines and Record Impact by State
| State | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $60–$110 | Not listed in criminal or driving record |
| Arizona | Up to $250 and 2 points on license | Not Specified |
| California | Base $100 + ~$400 additional fees and 1 point on license | Not Specified |
| Colorado | Maximum $75 | Not reported to CDPS; not on driving record |
| Connecticut | 1st: $50 + $15 fee; 2nd+: $75 + $15 fee | Not Specified |
| Delaware | Up to $110 and DMV may suspend license for failing to pay | Not listed on record or insurance |
| Florida | $158 | Not Specified |
| Georgia | Up to $70 | Not listed in driving record; not used for insurance |
| Hawaii | 1st: $250; 2nd: $300; 3rd+: $500 | Not Specified |
| Illinois | Up to $100 | Not a violation; not recorded on driving record |
| Iowa | $65–$100 | Not listed on driving record |
| Louisiana | $100–$125 | Not a criminal conviction; not in driving record |
| Maryland | Up to $100 | Not in driving record; not used for insurance |
| Minnesota | 1st: warning; 2nd: $40 (diversion); 3rd+: $40 | Not on driver record |
| Missouri | About $100 | Not Specified |
| New Mexico | $66–$100; may seize vehicle if unpaid (some jurisdictions) | Not Specified |
| New York | $50 | Not criminal; not in driving record; not used for insurance |
| North Carolina | $50–$100 | Not used for insurance |
| Ohio | Up to $150 | Not used for insurance |
| Oregon | Max $1,000 (Class B violation) | Not Specified |
| Pennsylvania | Up to $100 | Not a criminal conviction; not in record; not for insurance |
| Rhode Island | $85 | Not a moving violation or criminal; not in record; not for insurance |
| Tennessee | $50 | Not in driving record; not for credit or insurance |
| Virginia | Up to $50 | Not a conviction; not in record; not for insurance |
| Washington | Up to $145 | Not a conviction; not part of driving record |
Source: IIHS
Are Red Light Camera Tickets Enforceable?
Yes, but how they’re enforced varies. In some states, red light camera tickets are treated like parking violations and don’t impact your license. In others, especially where license points apply, they are treated more seriously. If you receive one, it's important to check whether red light camera tickets are enforceable in your area and what your options are for payment or appeal.
How Long After Running a Red Light Will I Get a Ticket?
In states that use red light cameras, you’ll typically receive your ticket by mail within 7 to 14 days after the violation. The notice will include the date, time, and a photo or video clip of the alleged incident. If you’re wondering, “how long after running a red light will I get a ticket?”—this short time frame means you should keep an eye on your mailbox if you suspect you were caught.
How Often Do Red Light Cameras Give Tickets?
How often do red light cameras give tickets frequency depends on the area. Busy intersections with high violation rates may issue dozens of tickets a day. While some cameras are always active, others may only operate during specific hours or at high-risk intersections.
Final Thoughts
Red light camera fines can be as little as $50 or as much as $1,000, depending on your state. While some states enforce these tickets aggressively, others treat them as minor infractions or don’t allow them at all. Either way, knowing are red light camera tickets enforceable and how much is a ticket for running a red light, helps you respond smartly and avoid bigger problems down the road.
