Don’t Let Tickets Trip You Up: Your Guide to Payment and Appeal in the UK

Parking tickets can be a source of frustration, but understanding the process shouldn’t add to your woes. This guide provides comprehensive insights into paying and challenging fines in the UK, covering council penalty charge notices (PCNs) and police-issued fixed penalty notices (FPNs).

Paying a Ticket:

Timelines:

You typically have 28 days to pay, with some offering a 14-day discount. Lost your ticket? Contact the issuer for payment options.

Method:

Payment methods vary depending on the ticket type and issuer. Look for online options, telephone lines, or designated payment locations.

Scotland and Northern Ireland:

Procedures differ slightly in these regions, so check local guidelines for specifics.

Understanding Different Tickets:

PCNs:

Issued by local councils for parking infractions, bus lane violations, and missed congestion/emission zone charges. Pay online for many PCNs issued by councils and Transport for London (TfL).

FPNs:

Issued by police, councils, or the DVSA for parking (including dangerous parking) and minor motoring offences like speeding. Pay online or check the FPN for other methods.

Facing Late Fees and Consequences:

PCNs:

Missing the 28-day deadline leads to a “charge certificate” with a 50% fine increase. Ignoring that incurs a court order demanding payment.

FPNs:

Missing the 28-day deadline doubles the fine. Failure to pay can lead to prosecution, higher fines, and potential court costs. Only certain FPNs for dangerous parking add penalty points to your license.

Challenging a Ticket:

Traffic Penalty Tribunal: Feeling unfairly ticketed? Lodge a “traffic penalty appeal” online through the Traffic Penalty Tribunal. Their user-friendly platform makes contesting your PCN hassle-free, regardless of whether you’re on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Scotland and Northern Ireland: Appeal processes differ in these regions, so consult local guidance for details.

Remember:

• Deadlines and penalties can escalate quickly. Act promptly to avoid additional charges and hassle.
• Check the ticket carefully for specific payment instructions and deadlines.
• Consider appealing if you believe the ticket was unjust. The Traffic Penalty Tribunal offers accessible avenues for contesting PCNs.