To the best of our knowledge Illinois is unique in using the driver's license as bond because other states normally require cash, a money order or cashier's check. Though you may want to check with other state's Department of Motor Vehicles or Courts to see if others do allow this type of bond with a driver's license being held.

As you know in Illinois if you get a ticket for a minor traffic violation, you will be required to post bond in the form of cash, a bond card or a valid driver’s license. If your driver’s license was posted and you pay the ticket before the first court date, your driver’s license will be returned. If you fail to pay the ticket or to appear in court, a second court date may not be automatically set. Failure to appear on the second date will result in loss of bond or may result in suspension of your driver’s license until you satisfy the court.

This is compare to say Miami, Florida where if you were cited for a non-criminal traffic infraction and you are unable to appear for court, you may be eligible to submit an Affidavit of Defense. Once you have completed the Affidavit of Defense, you must return the notarized Affidavit to our office along with a money order or cashier's check payable to the law enforcement office or court, to be posted as a bond.

If you are found not guilty, your money will be returned to you in full. If you are found guilty and a fine is assessed, the fine will be deducted from your bond and the balance will be returned to you. If your fine is more than the posted bond amount, you will be notified of the balance due and the due date. In all cases, we will notify you of the outcome by mail.

Or in Oklahoma City if you are pleading not guilty and wish to set a trial date to appear before a judge to discuss your case, you must post bond on or before your arraignment date. Cost to post bond includes the amount of the fine plus a $35 bond posting fee. Please retain your bond posting receipt to bring with you to trial.