Traffic Tickets
Information about paying traffic citations, court appearances, and understanding your options.
Make sure you pay through the correct system
JCSO issues two types of tickets that are paid through different systems. Paying through the wrong one may result in your payment not being applied. Use the section below to identify your ticket type.
Identify Your Ticket
Look at the top of your ticket to determine which type you received, then use the corresponding payment link.
MTC Citation
Issued under the Model Traffic Code. These are typically minor traffic offenses handled by the Jefferson County Court.
- • Headed "Model Traffic Citation" or "MTC"
- • Processed through the Colorado Judicial Branch
- • Payment indicates a guilty plea
State Summons & Complaint
Issued for more serious traffic violations under Colorado state law. Ticket numbers typically start with JCSO.
- • Headed "Summons and Complaint" or "Penalty Assessment"
- • Ticket number starts with "JCSO"
- • Paid through Colorado DMV
Key Information
20-Day Deadline
You must respond to your ticket within 20 days of the date it was issued — either by paying or appearing in court.
Database Delay
It may take up to 4 business days after your citation is issued for it to appear in the payment system. If you can't find your ticket online, try again in a few days.
Other Payment Methods
Pay by Mail
Mail your payment (check or money order) to the Model Traffic Unit. Include your citation number on the check.
Model Traffic Unit
200 Jefferson County Pkwy
Golden, CO 80401
Pay In Person
Visit the Model Traffic Unit at the Jefferson County Justice Center.
200 Jefferson County Pkwy, Golden, CO 80401
Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Accepted: Cash, check, Visa, Mastercard
C-470 Toll Violations
C-470 Express Lanes Violations
Unpaid C-470 Express Lane tolls are managed by Express Lane Safety, not the Sheriff's Office. If you have an outstanding toll violation, contact them directly to avoid escalation.
- Timeline: Unpaid tolls escalate from notice → penalty → collections → registration hold
- Phone: (833) 816-0316
Point System
Colorado uses a point system for traffic violations. Accumulating too many points can result in license suspension.
Common Violations
- Speeding 5-9 over 1 point
- Speeding 10-19 over 4 points
- Speeding 20-39 over 6 points
- Running red light/stop sign 4 points
- Careless driving 4 points
Suspension Thresholds
- Adult drivers (21+):
12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months - Minor drivers (under 18):
6 points in 12 months - Provisional license (18-20):
9 points in 12 months or 12 points in 24 months
Traffic Safety Resources
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is committed to traffic safety education. Review these resources to help keep our roads safe.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes. Put down your phone, avoid eating behind the wheel, and keep your attention on the road at all times.
Texting While Driving
Colorado law prohibits texting while driving for all drivers. Violators face fines and license points. No text message is worth risking your life or the lives of others.
Bicycle Safety
Motorists and cyclists share the road. Drivers must give at least 3 feet of clearance when passing. Cyclists should use lights and reflectors and follow all traffic signals.
Contact Information
JCSO Traffic Unit
For questions about your citation or the traffic unit.
Jefferson County Court
For questions about your court date or payment status.
100 Jefferson County Parkway
Golden, CO 80401