Philadelphia Municipal Court – Traffic Division

About Philadelphia Municipal Court – Traffic Division

The Philadelphia Municipal Court – Traffic Division is a specialized judicial unit within the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania, tasked with adjudicating moving violations of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code that occur within Philadelphia. Established in 2013 following a restructuring of the city’s traffic judicial system, this court specifically handles citations issued by police officers for offenses such as speeding, running red lights, and disregarding stop signs. 🛑 It is critically important to distinguish this court from the Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA); the Traffic Division does not handle parking tickets, red light camera tickets, or speed camera violations.

Court Services and Functions

Located at 800 Spring Garden Street, the Traffic Division allows defendants to plead not guilty and request hearings, or to make payments on issued citations. The court is presided over by Municipal Court judges and hearing officers. Key services include:

• Summary Trials: A venue for drivers to contest citations and present evidence in their defense.
• Payment Plans: The court administers payment arrangements for individuals unable to pay the full amount of fines and costs immediately.
• Impoundment Release: Handling administrative matters related to vehicles immobilized or impounded specifically due to unpaid moving violation citations.

Security and Yondr Pouch Policy

The Traffic Division enforces strict security protocols comparable to airport screening. 📵 Mobile Device Restriction: The court utilizes Yondr pouches to secure all mobile phones and smartwatches. Upon entry, your device will be locked in a pouch that you keep with you, but you will be unable to access it until you leave the building. Because you cannot access your phone, you must bring physical copies of all evidence, proof of insurance, and registration needed for your case. No weapons, sharp objects, food, or drinks are permitted inside the facility.