Civil Traffic Citation:
Non-criminal offense
No jail time or arrest
No criminal record
Handled like a parking ticket
Cannot result in a bench warrant
Examples: minor speeding, failure to yield, equipment violations
Criminal Traffic Citation:
Misdemeanor criminal charge
Can result in arrest or jail
Goes on your criminal record
Requires court appearance in many cases
Can lead to a bench warrant if you fail to appear
Examples: DUI, reckless driving, driving without license, no insurance
Civil Traffic Citations (Post-AB116):
Handled as civil infractions under Nevada law (AB116, effective January 1, 2023)
Issued for low-level traffic offenses (non-injury, non-crash-related)
You’ll get a due date and options to pay the fine or contest the ticket
No arrest, jail, or criminal record
Failure to pay may still result in license suspension, late fees, or collections
Handled by: Las Vegas Justice Court (for unincorporated areas) or municipal courts in Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, etc.
Criminal Traffic Citations:
Considered misdemeanors under Nevada law
May involve mandatory court appearances
Failure to appear can result in a bench warrant and arrest
May carry jail time, fines, and points on your license
You have the right to an attorney
Examples include: DUI, reckless driving, driving without a valid license, driving without insurance or registration, hit and run, driving on a suspended license.
How to Tell Which One You Have:
Look at your citation. It will say either "CIVIL" or "CRIMINAL" in the top right hand corner of your citation.
Check the court website and enter your citation information.
Call the court directly if you’re unsure.
Helpful Tips:
Don’t ignore a citation. Civil or criminal, consequences still apply.
Civil citations can often be handled online.
Criminal citations may affect job applications, background checks, and driving privileges.
You can always consult a traffic attorney if you're unsure of your rights or next steps.
