File an appeal against a traffic ticket
Appeal against a fine (e.g., for illegal parking or a minor speeding violation) with the relevant fine-issuing authority.
How to proceed
- 1
Do not pay the fine if you wish to file an appeal
Once the payment is made, the fine becomes final and can no longer be contested.
- 2
Send a statement to the fine-imposing authority
Within the specified time limit.
- 3
Administrative fine proceedings or dismissal of the case
Failure to pay may result in standard fine proceedings involving a higher amount.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 2 weeks
Official: max. approx. 2 weeks
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Paid the fine and filed an appeal at the same time – payment is considered an admission of liability
- • Allowing the one-week deadline for payment or response to expire, thereby triggering administrative penalty proceedings involving a higher fine
Common reasons for rejection
- • The violation is clearly documented by photographic evidence
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals who have received an offer of a warning fine and have declined it.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 weeks
Success rate
approx. 25.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Paid the fine and filed an appeal at the same time – payment is considered an admission of liability
- •Allowing the one-week deadline for payment or response to expire, thereby triggering administrative penalty proceedings involving a higher fine
Common reasons for rejection
- •The violation is clearly documented by photographic evidence
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.