Springfield traffic ticket: how to pay it, and how to keep the points off

Where is the Springfield Municipal Court?

At 625 N. Benton. Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the front window is open 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. Both close from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. The phone number is 417-864-1890.

How do I pay a Springfield traffic ticket?

For violations issued after January 1, 2021, the court uses the statewide case management system. The court says "some tickets can be paid online prior to your court date" with the Plead and Pay option, for tickets eligible under the statewide violations bureau.

Which tickets need a court appearance?

Any ticket that doesn't show a Plead and Pay button on Case.net. Tickets involving an accident, DWI or a suspended license can't be on the pay-without-appearing schedule under state law.

What does the court say about the Driver Improvement Program?

The court's Driving Programs page describes the Defensive Driving Course as "an 8-hour Driver Improvement Program" and, for online options, links to the Missouri Safety Center's approved list. The page is about programs ordered with probation, so read your paperwork to see which kind of order you have. If it's the Driver Improvement Program in place of points, the 60-day deadline applies.

How do I keep the points off?

Ask the court to let you complete the Driver Improvement Program before you plead guilty or pay. Paying is a guilty plea, and the points follow the conviction. If the court approves it, you have 60 days from your conviction to finish an 8-hour course on the Missouri Safety Center's approved list.

The program covers speeding, careless and imprudent driving and ordinary moving violations. It isn't available to CDL holders or drivers licensed in another state, and you can use it once in 36 months. How to ask the court.

What if my ticket isn't from Springfield police?

A ticket from the Highway Patrol or the county sheriff goes to the circuit court, not the city court. Use the court named on your citation.

What happens after the course?

The course provider gives you MO Form 4444. Take it to the court for a signature, then get it to the Department of Revenue within 15 days of finishing. Form 4444.