How do I fight a speeding ticket in Georgia?

Question

Accepted Answer

Georgia speeding tickets are tried in municipal, recorder's, probate, or state courts depending on jurisdiction.

1. Pay vs. Contest

Pay: guilty plea, points and Super Speeder fee (if applicable) added.

Nolo contendere plea: under O.C.G.A. § 40-13-58, allowed once per 5 years for moving violations. Avoids point assessment for drivers 21+ (under 21 still get points).

Trial: bench trial in municipal/state court; jury trial requires transfer to state court.

2. Speed Limits & Reckless Threshold

O.C.G.A. § 40-6-181 sets the basic rule and posted maximums (70 mph interstate, 65 four-lane).

Super Speeder (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-189): $200 state fee on top of fine for 75+ mph on 2-lane or 85+ mph on any road.

Reckless driving (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-390): 'reckless disregard for safety,' misdemeanor — up to 12 months jail, $1,000 fine, 4 license points.

3. Points & Suspension

2 points: under 15 mph over (or no points if under 15 over for adults)

3 points: 19-23 over

4 points: 24-33 over

6 points: 34+ over

15 points/24 months = suspension. Under-21 drivers suspended at 4 points.

4. Driver Improvement Course

DDS-certified course removes up to 7 points once every 5 years (O.C.G.A. § 40-5-86). CDL holders cannot mask a CDL conviction.

5. Defenses & Discovery

Subpoena officer and radar/laser calibration log.

Georgia requires radar use only by officers with POST certification (O.C.G.A. § 40-14-5) and equipment must be on the approved list (§ 40-14-4).

Demand municipal/county speed-detection device permit under § 40-14-2.

This is legal information, not legal advice.