What Happens When You Don't Pay a Parking Ticket in Another City

Failing to address an unpaid parking ticket can lead to severe consequences that extend far beyond the immediate fine. Depending on the jurisdiction, these tickets can affect your vehicle registration, car insurance rates, and even limit your ability to rent a car. This article explores the potential ramifications of not paying a parking ticket in another city.

Impact on Vehicle Registration

In California, parking violations are handled purely administratively and are noted against the license plate, not the driver. However, in other jurisdictions, these unpaid tickets can pose significant challenges. For example, if you receive a ticket for a rental car, the rental company can come after you to reimburse them for the fine. They may also add a markup or up-charge for the trouble, and you may be added to their "naughty list," making it difficult to rent from them again.

DMV and Registration Issues

In many cases, the unpaid parking ticket will be forwarded to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If the ticket is still unpaid, your vehicle's license plate will be flagged, impeding the renewal of your registration. This can lead to delays and additional expenses. In extreme cases, the registration for your vehicle will ultimately be cancelled, affecting your ability to drive legally.

Extended Consequences

Unpaid parking tickets can have lingering effects on your driving privileges. In California, for instance, the ticket may eventually be attached to the registered owner’s driver's license, which can cause further complications and frustration. This was the case with the author, who experienced a similar scenario during the 'Cash for Clunkers' (C4C) program.

Back in 2009, the author participated in the C4C program and traded in an old Ford Aerostar van. The next day, the van received a parking ticket for parking in a red zone in front of a liquor store. When the paperwork was processed at the DMV, the registration for the van was unexpectedly cancelled. The author drove the vehicle and received the ticket due to someone else.

Over two years later, the author struggled to renew their driver's license because of the unpaid ticket. The DMV renewal staff had no way to cancel the hold and were unable to accept the author's proof of their innocence. This ultimately led to an additional 400 dollars in fees and penalties to clear the ticket and renew the driver's license.

Conclusion

While it is understandable to overlook a parking ticket, the consequences can be far-reaching and financially burdensome. Ensuring that all parking fines are addressed promptly can save you from unnecessary stress, fines, and complications in your vehicle registration and insurance. Always keep your paperwork and receipts, and make it a habit to keep track of all parking tickets to avoid such headaches.