Getting Around DC
DC Parking Tickets: How Much They Cost and What to Do If You Get One
Getting a parking ticket in DC is frustrating. Handling it wrong makes it significantly more expensive. Here’s what DC parking tickets actually cost and how to fight back.
How Much DC Parking Tickets Cost
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Expired meter | $25 |
| Overtime parking (exceeded time limit) | $25 |
| Street cleaning violation | $45 |
| Bus stop violation | $50 |
| No parking zone | $100 |
| Blocking a fire hydrant | $100 |
| Blocking a crosswalk | $100 |
| Rush hour zone violation | $100+ plus towing |
| Handicapped space without valid permit | $250 |
What Happens If You Don’t Pay
After 30 days: A penalty equal to the original fine is added. Your ticket doubles.
After 60 days: Additional penalties apply and the ticket may be sent to collections.
Ongoing unpaid tickets: DC will eventually boot your vehicle. Two unpaid tickets makes your car eligible. See our full DC towing rules guide.
Out-of-state drivers: Unpaid DC tickets can follow you through DMV systems in other states and block your registration renewal back home.
How to Pay a DC Parking Ticket
Full details in our complete guide to paying a DC parking ticket. Quick version:
- Online: dmv.dc.gov/service/pay-tickets — 2.5% fee on cards, free via ACH
- Phone: (866) 893-5023
- Mail: Check/money order to DC Treasurer, PO Box 37135, Washington DC 20013
- In person: 955 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Suite P100
How to Contest a DC Parking Ticket
DC law recognizes seven valid defenses for parking violations:
- You were not the owner or lessee of the vehicle at the time
- The vehicle or its plates were stolen (requires a police report)
- The relevant signs were missing or obscured
- The parking meter was broken or malfunctioned
- The facts on the ticket are inconsistent or don’t support the violation
- The vehicle was suddenly mechanically disabled and removed as soon as possible
- The operator needed immediate medical assistance (proof required)
Contest online at dmv.dc.gov, by mail, or in person at 955 L’Enfant Plaza SW. Contest within 30 days — only the original fine applies if you lose. After 30 days, the doubled penalty also applies.
Tips for Contesting Successfully
Take photos at the scene. If you think a sign was missing or the meter was broken, photograph it immediately. Evidence submitted with your case dramatically improves your odds.
Check TICPIX. DC Department of Public Works posts images of parking violations online at dpw.dc.gov — available 72 hours after a ticket is issued. See exactly what the officer photographed before deciding whether to contest.
Don’t pay first. Once you pay, the case is closed permanently.
Rental Cars: Watch Out
Many rental companies automatically pay any tickets issued to their vehicles and then charge you the fine plus their own administrative fees — without giving you the opportunity to contest. Check your rental agreement before you travel.
If You Can’t Afford to Pay
DC offers installment payment plans through the DC Central Collection Unit. Contact through the Mayor’s Citywide Call Center at 311 or (202) 737-4404 rather than letting fines continue to accumulate.
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Bottom Line
Pay it or fight it within 30 days. Ignoring it costs you more every month. And if you think the ticket was wrong — contest before you pay, not after.
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