Missouri Speeding Ticket Dismissal: When and How It’s Possible

Getting a speeding ticket in Missouri can be frustrating. But sometimes, you can get it dismissed. Here’s what you need to know.

What Counts as Speeding in Missouri?

In Missouri, you’re speeding if you drive over the posted limit. This includes highways, city roads, or school zones. Speeding tickets depend on how fast you were going. Minor speeding might be 5 to 10 mph over the limit. Major speeding can be 20+ mph over. Missouri uses a point system. More points mean more risk to your license. Even one ticket can stay on your record and affect your future. If you’re applying for a job that requires driving, it might hurt your chances. It can also raise your car insurance.

Can a Speeding Ticket Be Dismissed?

Yes, but it depends. Not all tickets get dismissed. Certain rules and steps must be followed. Here are a few ways it could happen:

• You were not actually speeding.
• The officer made a mistake.
• The equipment used was faulty.
• You complete a driving course.

Let’s break these down.

Mistaken Speeding Charges

Sometimes the officer gets it wrong. Maybe they clocked the wrong car. Or their radar gun gave a false reading. If this happens, you may fight the ticket in court. You need proof. This could be dashcam footage or a witness. You can also question the officer in court. If the officer can’t clearly explain what happened, you may win. Always stay calm and polite in court.

Faulty Radar Guns

Officers use radar or laser devices to check speed. These tools must be checked and working right. If not, the reading may be wrong. You can ask for proof of recent testing or calibration. Some tools lose accuracy over time. If the court sees the device wasn’t tested, they may throw out your ticket. Always ask for the maintenance log.

Taking a Driving Course

Some courts let you take a driving class. This won’t erase the ticket. But it can stop the points from hitting your record. This means your insurance might not go up.

You must ask the court first. You usually have to:

• Pay the fine.
• Pay for the class.
• Finish it by a deadline.

Then the court may dismiss the ticket or keep it off your record. Most courses are online and take about 4 to 8 hours. Once done, send proof to the court right away.

Wrong Info on the Ticket

Mistakes happen. If the ticket has wrong info, it might not hold up in court. Errors like the wrong car model, date, or location can be used to fight the ticket. But small errors may not matter. The judge decides if the mistake affects your case. Still, always check the ticket. If the name or license number is wrong, it may help your case.

How to Ask for Dismissal

1. Read Your Ticket Carefully
   • Look for any errors.
2. Check Your Options
   • Missouri courts usually give choices: pay, go to court, or request a driving course.
3. Gather Proof
   • Get photos, dashcam footage, or witness statements.
4. Go to Court
   • You can plead not guilty. Then the court gives you a date to appear.
5. Speak to a Lawyer
   • A lawyer can help if your case is complex.
6. Be Prepared
   • Dress neatly. Be polite. Stick to the facts. Judges respect people who come prepared.

What If You Just Pay the Fine?

Paying means you plead guilty. The points go on your record. This can raise your insurance and stay on your record for years. Even a first ticket can cause problems later. If you get more points, you may lose your license. Also, some employers check your driving record. If they see tickets, they might pass on hiring you.

How Many Points Is a Speeding Ticket?

In Missouri:

• 2 to 3 points for speeding, depending on who gave the ticket.
• Higher points if it caused an accident.
• 8 points in 18 months = license suspension.

Points can add up fast. If you get tickets in a short time, your license could be taken.

How Long Do Points Stay?

Points stay on your Missouri record for 3 years. But the ticket itself stays on your driving history longer. Insurance companies may see it for up to 5 years. That’s why even one ticket should be taken seriously.

Should You Hire a Lawyer?

It depends. For minor tickets, you might not need one. But if:

• You were wrongly charged
• You already have points
• You drive for work

Then an experienced Kansas City speeding ticket lawyer may help. They can speak for you in court and push for dismissal. Lawyers know the rules. They may find mistakes in the ticket or the officer’s report.

What If You Miss Your Court Date?

Don’t skip it. If you do, the court may issue a warrant. You might lose your license. Always contact the court ahead of time if you can’t make it. You can sometimes ask for a new date. Just don’t wait too long.

Dismissal Isn’t Always Easy

Each court may handle things differently. One judge may offer a driving course. Another may not. It’s up to them. That’s why it helps to know your options. Always check with the court. Rules can vary by county.

Can a Ticket Be Removed After You Pay?

Not usually. Once you pay, it’s on your record. That’s why you should try to fight or dismiss it first. Paying is the same as saying you were guilty. That makes it hard to undo.

Other Ways to Avoid Points

• Ask for a plea deal in court.
• Try for a “no-point” guilty plea.
• Ask if your ticket can be changed to a non-moving violation.

These options might not erase the fine, but they can help your record.

Missouri Speeding Ticket Dismissal FAQs

1. Can I get a speeding ticket dismissed if I take a driving course?

Yes. Some courts offer this option. It won’t erase the fine but may keep points off your record.

2. Will a radar gun mistake help my case?

Yes, if you can prove it. Ask when the radar was last tested. If it wasn’t recent, your case gets stronger.

3. Do all courts in Missouri allow dismissal for first-time tickets?

No. Each court is different. Some offer driving courses. Others don’t. Always check first.

4. What if I wasn’t speeding and want to fight the ticket?

You can plead not guilty. Go to court with proof. A judge will decide.

5. Can a lawyer really get a ticket dismissed?

Yes, in many cases. They know the law and how to speak to the court. They may find errors or help you get a better deal.

Endnote

Missouri speeding tickets can be a headache. But you do have choices. Review your ticket, check the facts, and explore ways to fight it. Dismissal is possible, but only if you take action. Don’t just pay and forget it—protect your record.

Consult a license back lawyer in Kansas City today.