Can a pass traffic ticket be overturned?

In the United States, traffic citations that result in merely a fine (a "ticket" to be "paid") cannot be overturned. Only ones in which one faces a suspension, revocation or disqualification of a driver's license can be overturned with the only methods being by a review of the agency of such decision, or by requesting a hearing.

In contrast, a "charge" for a non-petty crime (misdemeanor or felony) can be dismissed and overturned based on a number of factors and avenues, one of which is challenging the probable cause of a stop.

However, a few U.S. states (such as California) do allow for the overturning of a certain number of moving violations per specified time frame. Some may also allow the dismissal of non-criminal traffic violations through defensive driving courses. A few may allow for a judge to dismiss a non-petty citation due to mitigating factors, such as having a clean driving record and/or a valid reason (e.g. a medical emergency) for the violation.

Additionally, an overturned charge of a non-petty crime may also serve to overturn or expunge a citation issued from that charge, especially if the charge was made in lieu of a citation.