San Bernardino County Juvenile Traffic & Offense Citations

Getting a citation as a minor can be stressful for both the young driver and their parents. In San Bernardino County, the first step to resolving the issue without harming a minor's driving record or future is to understand how the court handles juvenile cases.

Although historical cases and certain minor offenses outside traffic may cite the Informational Juvenile & Traffic Court system, San Bernardino County is updating its process for managing youth citations.

Where Is My Child's Case Heard?

San Bernardino County directs juvenile offenses into particular pathways depending solely on the seriousness and type of the alleged violation.

1. Juvenile Traffic & Standard Infractions

All standard traffic tickets, such as speeding, failing to stop at a stop sign, or mechanical violations, as well as non-traffic infractions involving minors, are handled directly in Adult Traffic Courts.

• The Process: The minor will follow standard traffic citation protocols, which may include options like traffic school, fixing correctable violations, or utilizing the court's online and remote video arraignment services.

2. Misdemeanor Citations (WIC § 256)

If a minor receives a misdemeanor citation that falls under California Welfare and Institutions Code Section 256 (such as minor in possession of alcohol, vandalism, or certain petty offenses), the matter is handled non-judicially.

• The Location: These cases are brought before and heard by the San Bernardino County Juvenile Probation Department, which is located at 150 West 5th Street, San Bernardino, CA 92415.

3. Formal Juvenile Delinquency Petitions (WIC § 601 & 602)

For severe or ongoing offenses where the District Attorney files a formal petition, the case enters the Juvenile Delinquency Court system.

• The Locations: These confidential hearings are held at specialized venues such as the San Bernardino Juvenile Delinquency Court (900 East Gilbert Street) or the Victorville Juvenile Court.

Important Rules for Parents and Guardians

If your child needs to attend a juvenile citation or review, remember these key rules to prevent delays:

• Mandatory Parental Presence: A parent or legal guardian must accompany the minor during their court appearances or check-ins.

• Strict Court Dress Code: San Bernardino Juvenile and Probation facilities enforce a strict dress code. Shorts, tank tops, undershirts, gang-related clothing, and going barefoot are not allowed.

• Security Screening: All bags, backpacks, and purses may be searched, and all entrants must go through electronic weapons screening.

• Financial Responsibility: Parents can be legally and financially responsible for fines, fees, or victim restitution imposed by the court or probation authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do minors handle traffic tickets differently than adults in San Bernardino County?

While minor traffic infractions are processed through the Adult Traffic Court locations, the penalties can impact a provisional license more severely.

Minors should carefully review their reminder notice for mandatory appearance instructions, as some juvenile traffic infractions require an in-person or remote appearance with a parent.

Where do I submit paperwork for older Informal Juvenile Court matters?

If you are resolving a legacy case, submitting proof of completion certificates, or making payments for matters filed in the historical Informal Juvenile & Traffic courts prior to 2013, documents must be sent to the San Bernardino Juvenile Delinquency Court at 900 East Gilbert Street, Bldg. 2, San Bernardino, CA 92415.

What happens at a Juvenile Probation Department WIC 256 hearing?

For misdemeanors referred to the Juvenile Probation Department, a probation officer will discuss the incident with the minor and parent. The aim is usually to promote accountability and rehabilitation without formal court proceedings, often through community service, diversion programs, or counseling.

Can minors resolve traffic tickets online or remotely?

Yes. The San Bernardino Superior Court allows many traffic infractions to be handled online via their self-help portal.

They also offer Remote Traffic Arraignment hearings via Zoom are available for certain districts, such as Fontana and Barstow, enabling you to handle the citation without visiting the courthouse in person.

How can I get copies of police reports or records for a juvenile case?

Since juvenile records are confidential, you are required to submit a formal Petition to Obtain Report of Law Enforcement Agency (Form JV-575). This completed form should be mailed directly to the 827 Petition Desk at the San Bernardino Juvenile Delinquency Court.