Unpaid Parking Tickets and Moving Out of State: What You Need to Know

Are you thinking about moving out of state but worried about your unpaid parking tickets?

Understanding the consequences of ignoring parking tickets, especially if you move to a different state, is crucial for ensuring a smooth relocation process. In this article, we'll explore the possible outcomes of unpaid parking fines when you move and what actions you should take to avoid legal complications and inconvenience.

The Consequences of Unpaid Parking Tickets

When you fail to pay parking tickets in one state, the consequences can be significant, not just limited to the state where the violation occurred. The unpaid fines eventually get added to a federal database, which can result in more severe penalties, including interstate flight to avoid paying fines.

License and Tag Suspension

One of the primary consequences of having unpaid parking tickets is the suspension of your driver's license and registration tag. Once these documents are suspended, you're likely to face significant inconvenience:

Your driving privileges are restricted, making it difficult to get through daily life without a car. Without a valid registration tag, your vehicle is at risk of being impounded. Your insurance and medical coverage might be affected, leading to additional costs.

The Process of Suspension and Reinstatement

When you move to a new state, the authorities will generally not come to your old address to arrest you for unpaid tickets. Instead, they will send you a letter informing you that your driver's license and registration have been suspended due to non-payment of parking citations. The state will require you to pay a significant fine (often a flat fee or a percentage of the outstanding amount) to reinstate your license and registration.

In many states, there's a mandatory fine of around 500 dollars to reinstate your license. Paying the fine late can result in additional penalties and interest on the outstanding balance.

Interstate Consequences

The potential inter-state repercussions of unpaid parking tickets can be even more serious. If the authorities in your previous state discover that you've moved, they can use the federal database to track down your new address and pursue further action:

1. Bench Warrants: Your previous state might issue a bench warrant, which can make it difficult for you to travel within the United States. Officers can arrest you even if they catch you in a different state, and you might face charges for contempt of court or bench warrant.

2. Criminal Records: Parking tickets can lead to criminal records, especially if they turn into bench warrants or other legal actions. These records can be accessed during background checks, which might impact your ability to get new jobs, apartments, or even insurance.

Getting Back on Track

To avoid these complications, it's crucial to address unpaid parking tickets proactively. Here's what you should do:

Pay the Tickets: Pay the outstanding fines as soon as possible. Addressing the issue immediately can help prevent further complications. Transfer Your Case: If you are moving, request to transfer the case to the new state. This often involves providing proof of your new address and ensuring that the case is not pursued in the old state. Stay Informed: Regularly check your driving records and ensure that any outstanding fines have been paid. This can help you avoid accidental disruptions in your driver's license or registration.

Instead of waiting for the authorities to catch up with you, taking action to clear your tickets can provide you with a clean slate and peace of mind. Moving to a new state should be an exciting prospect, and addressing any unresolved legal issues will make the transition smoother.

Final Thoughts

Unpaid parking tickets can create significant legal and personal complications, especially when you move out of state. By understanding the potential consequences and taking proactive steps to address these issues, you can ensure a smoother relocation process and avoid unnecessary inconvenience in the future.

Always stay informed and proactive in dealing with any legal issues to maintain a clear driving record and avoid further complications.