The Municipal Court provides a variety of accessible options to help you efficiently resolve your citation. Whether through in-person hearings, virtual court sessions, or compliance dismissals, we are committed to ensuring fair and clear processes tailored to meet your needs.
- CONTACT INFORMATION
- citycourt@amarillo.gov
- 806-378-3082
- 806-378-3085
-
In-Person:
201 SE 4th Ave
Amarillo, TX 79101 -
By Mail:
Amarillo Municipal Court
PO Box 1366
Amarillo, TX 79105-1366 -
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Resolving your Citation Overview
Court Types
In most cases, defendants can choose how they appear in court, depending on eligibility and preference.
In-Person Court
- Times:
- Monday – Friday at 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.
- Additional Time Option includes Tuesday’s at 3:30 p.m.
- Requirements:
- Appear at the courthouse 20 minutes before your scheduled docket time.
Municipal Court Rules
When attending an in-person or virtual court docket, it’s important to be aware of the following rules, which are strictly enforced:
- The Judge and Court Security will maintain proper decorum at all times.
- Taking pictures or videos with any device is prohibited per Judge’s Standing Order No. 6.
- All cell phones must be powered off in the courtroom.
- Reading books or other materials is not allowed. All participants must remain attentive throughout the session.
- Appropriate attire is required. If your clothing does not meet the standards, you may be asked to wear a provided shirt or return properly dressed. The following items are not permitted:
- Hats (except for religious headwear)
- Muscle shirts and tank tops
- Clothing with offensive, vulgar, racist, sexist, gang-related, or obscene language or graphics
Typical Roadmap of a Case
If you pay your citation online before your scheduled court date you can avoid further proceedings.
Initial Appearance — Summons Docket: This is where you appear before the court to address your citation and understand the next steps in your case.
Pro Se Appearance Docket — Trial Docket Call: This allows individuals representing themselves (pro se) to present their cases.
Trial — Trial by Jury or by Judge: During the trial, the evidence will be presented, and the judge or jury will determine the outcome based on the facts of the case.
Appeals — The appeals process allows individuals convicted in Municipal Court to challenge a guilty verdict. See below for detail
Virtual Court
- Times:
- Monday & Wednesday: 3:30 p.m.
- Thursday: 5:30 p.m.
- Friday: 8:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m.
- Eligibility:
- Allows eligible defendants to appear remotely via Zoom.
- Request must be submitted at least one hour before the selected docket.
- Those interested in a virtual court session must complete the Virtual Court Request Form
Virtual Court Information Overview
Virtual court allows eligible defendants to resolve cases remotely from home or work through a Zoom video conference with a judge. Virtual court provides the same rights as in-person appearances without needing to wait in line or attend scheduled court dockets.
Once you have been approved and put on the docket, click on the appropriate link based on the notice your received to launch the virtual court ZOOM meeting. If you do not know the type of docket, click here to look up your docket, or contact the court for assistance.
- Attorney Docket
- Civil Administrative Hearings
- Jail Release & Bond Hearings
- Juvenile Summons
- Pro Se Appearance
- Show Cause (DSC) Revocation
- Summons
- Virtual Mitigation Docket
- Virtual Walk-In
Options Available in Virtual Court
Eligible defendants in virtual court may:
- Plead Not Guilty and request a trial by judge or jury
- Plead Guilty or No Contest and request options like payment plans, community service, driving safety courses, or deferred disposition
- Request an extension of a due date
- Appear in response to a Revocation Hearing or Show Cause Order
- Speak directly to a Prosecutor
Virtual Court Requirements and Scheduling
- You must request a virtual hearing by submitting the online form. Court staff will then confirm your scheduled hearing by email.
- Equipment needed: Webcam or built-in camera with audio/video (such as a smartphone camera) and a stable internet connection.
- Zoom must be installed on your device prior to the hearing.
Important Notes
- Defendants are prohibited from recording virtual hearings.
- If the court cannot verify your identity, a virtual hearing may not be granted. Court staff will notify you if this occurs.
Options to Resolve Your Case
Choose one of the options below to learn more about how you can resolve your citation. Each option provides detailed information about eligibility and steps for the process.
Keep in mind that some options require an order from the Judge.
Pay the Citation
Online and Phone Payment Information
This payment service allows you to pay citations over the phone or online. Please read the notices, exclusions, and explanations carefully before proceeding. Payments are accepted by debit or credit card only.
You can use this service to pay fines for traffic, misdemeanor, and parking tickets. If you pay your fines before the court date shown on your ticket, your appearance in court will be waived.
- Pay most warrants using this service.
- Use the online payment service for alternative sentencing options.
You should not:
- Use this service if you are seeking to have any violations dismissed, such as “No Driver’s License.” Instead, contact the Court at 806-378-3082.
- Pay fines for tickets issued to a juvenile (defined as those issued when the defendant was younger than 17 years of age).
- Pay fines for a person currently in jail.
- Pay a cash bond.
By using this service to pay a fine, you acknowledge that, in accordance with Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Art. 27.14(c), your payment constitutes a finding of guilty in open court as though you entered a plea of nolo contendere. It also constitutes a waiver of your right to a jury trial.
Payments made through this service may result in a conviction being reported to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Please note that the City of Amarillo and the Amarillo Municipal Court do not guarantee the accuracy of the information provided on this site. There is also no guarantee that this online payment service will display all your unpaid tickets.
Using this service acknowledges that the City of Amarillo and the payment processor assume no responsibility for the data entered by users.
Pay your citation online using Municipal Online Payments or Fill out the Payment Plan Request form to request payment plan options.
To pay your citation by phone, call 855-371-7817.
This service cannot be used for signing up for Driver’s Safety Course or Deferred Disposition options.
Request a Court Appearance / Hearing
Request a hearing to see the Judge, allowing you to communicate directly with the judge to resolve your legal issues. Hearings are available In-Person or Virtually. Drop-In court times are also available.
- Review Your Citation: The citation includes instructions on requesting a hearing.
- Submit Your Court Hearing Request:
- Submit Online to request a virtual hearing by completing the Virtual Court Hearing Request Form.
- Drop-off Request: Use the night drop box located at the Municipal Court entrance (201 SE 4th Avenue)
- Mail Request: PO Box 1366, Amarillo, TX 79105
After submitting your request, you will receive confirmation of your hearing date and time.
Make sure to gather any evidence or documents and bring them to present at the hearing. This may include witness statements or relevant records.
You must submit your hearing request before the deadline specified on your citation.
For more information or assistance, contact the Municipal Court office at (806) 378-3082.
Deferred Disposition
Deferred Disposition allows you to have your citation dismissed by complying with court-imposed conditions over a specified period. It’s a form of probation that helps avoid a final conviction on your record.
Make sure to follow all instructions carefully and adhere to the conditions set by the Court to successfully complete the process.
If it is alleged that you failed to meet the court ordered conditions of deferred disposition, you will be ordered to appear before the court for a hearing to determine whether the court should proceed to judgment on your case.
Why is Deferred Disposition an Option?
Deferred Disposition provides a chance for individuals to demonstrate that they can adhere to certain conditions set by the Court, such as not getting another citation during the deferred period, completing a driver safety course or community service, and get their citation(s) dismissed. It aims to help correct behavior and avoid a conviction on the record for the defendant. Remember class ‘C’ misdemeanor convictions may impact future employment opportunities, insurance rates, and more. It is available for eligible cases and requires strict compliance with court-imposed conditions.
Eligibility for Deferred Disposition
Ineligible Offenses:
- Speeding 25 mph over the limit or more.
- Failure to give information at accident scene.
- Passing a school bus loading or unloading.
- Any offense committed in a construction zone with workers present.
- A serious traffic violation, which applies to commercial motor vehicle operators.
- If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and are charged with a moving violation you are disqualified from Deferred Disposition.
Eligibility Guidelines:
- You must not have already paid the fine related to the violation that resulted in a final conviction. If you have, contact the Court to discuss your options.
- All fines and court costs must be paid at the same time of your request.
- If you are under 25, you may be required by the Judge to take a Driving Safety Course as part of your Deferred Disposition.
- Compliance with deferred probation period (see description below).
- Completion of all conditions.
Deferral Probation Period
The length of the deferred disposition can range from 30 to 180 days, depending on the offense. During this time, you must not receive any new citations or charges and may need to fulfill additional conditions, such as community service hours, an educational class or a driver safety course. If you complete all requirements, your violation could be dismissed.
Request a Deferred Disposition Online, Email or by Mail
Online Request Directions
- Start the Process: Begin your Deferred Disposition Request online – Amarillo, TX – Municipal Online Services
- Agree to Terms: Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
- Select Court: Choose Amarillo Municipal Courts.
- Enter Information: Input your citation or driver’s license number, name, date of birth, or vehicle information.
- Choose Violations: Select each violation to see available options and continue.
- Continue: Click CONTINUE TO DEFERRED DISPOSITION.
- Select Plea: Choose “No Contest” for Deferred Disposition.
- Print Agreement: Print and carefully read the Deferred Disposition Agreement and Terms and Conditions.
- Submit Documents: Print the Deferred Disposition Application and Conditions Form. COMPLETE AND SIGN THE APPLICATION. You may upload a copy of your driver’s license or mail or email it later.
- Pay Fee: Pay the Deferred Disposition SPECIAL EXPENSE fee.
- Submit Completed Forms: Turn in your completed Deferred Disposition Application and Conditions Form, along with a copy of your driver’s license, within ten days after paying your special expense fee. You may submit these documents by email, mail, or in person.
Mail or Drop Off Request Directions
- Mail request to: Municipal Court, PO Box 1366, Amarillo, Texas 79105
- Drop Off In Person: Municipal Court, 201 SE 4th Ave, Amarillo, Texas, during office hours (8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday). A night deposit box is also available.
The Court is not responsible for any delays, lost, misdirected, or postage-due mail.
Deferred Disposition Status
To check if the Judge granted your deferral or to inquire about the terms of your Deferred Disposition, contact the Court via email at citycourt@amarillo.gov or by phone at 806-378-3082.
Consequences for Not Completing Requirements or Non-Compliance
Consequences of Non-Compliance If you fail to comply with the steps above, at the conclusion of the 90-day period, you will be summoned to appear in court to explain why you have not completed the Driving Safety Course requirements.
Failure to meet the conditions may result in a conviction, and you will be required to pay any remaining applicable fines. Failure to pay the fine could result in a warrant for your arrest.
Driving Safety Course (DSC)
A Driving Safety Course may dismiss your citation if you meet certain conditions, helping you avoid a conviction and its impact on your driving record and insurance.
Not Eligible for Dismissal of Citation(s)
- Severe offenses like passing a school bus.
- Violations for speeding in excess of 24 mph over the speed limit.
- Holders of a commercial driver’s license (CDL) are not eligible to take a Driving Safety Course, regardless of whether the offense occurred in a private vehicle.
- Driving record shows you have already taken a Driving Safety Course within the last twelve months.
Guidelines for Potential Dismissal of Your Citation with a Driving Safety Course
Carefully read the following requirements for the Driving Safety Course process:
- Only “moving violations” can be dismissed. If you are unsure what type of violation you have, contact the Court.
- Court approval needed.
- Only courses approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation may be taken.
- You must have a valid Texas driver’s license or permit.
- You must provide proof of valid financial responsibility (insurance) at the time of the violation.
- Certified Copy of your Driving Record.
- You must complete the Driving Safety Course within ninety days from the date of your plea. Further extensions will not be granted by the Court.
Required Documents
The following documents must be submitted to the Court within 90-days of entering your plea to potentially have the moving violation citation dismissed.
- Proof of Financial Responsibility (insurance) valid on the date and time of the violation.
- A legible copy of your valid Texas driver’s license or permit.
- The Court copy of your original Driving Safety Course Completion Certificate (must list Amarillo Municipal Court as the courthouse and be signed by you).
- The 3A certified copy of your Driving Record from the Texas Department of Public Safety.
- The notarized Affidavit stating you have not taken a Driving Safety Course for a moving violation in the past 12 months.
Request a Driving Safety Course (DSC) Online
If you are completing the DSC process online, follow these steps carefully. You may need a device connected to a printer for necessary documents.
- Begin your Driving Safety Course Request online — Amarillo, TX – Municipal Online Services
- Agree to Terms: Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
- Select Court: Choose Amarillo Municipal Courts.
- Enter Information: Input your citation or driver’s license number, name, date of birth, or vehicle information.
- Choose Violation: Select the moving violation you wish to dismiss by completing a DSC. Only one violation can be dismissed with a DSC.
- Select Continue to Driving Safety Course.
- Plea: Choose “No Contest” for DSC.
- Print Documents: Print and carefully review the Agreement and Affidavit. The Affidavit must be notarized.
- Obtain a Certified Copy of your Driving Record.
- Print the form available online — Texas DPS Application for Copy of Driver Record — to request by mail: Select 3A for the Certified version and mail the form with a $10.00 money order or check.
- Request online at texas.gov — Online Driver Record Request System: Pay $12.00 and print the Certified Copy of your Driving Record. You must have a printer ready at the time of purchase.
- Some DSC Providers offer the option to have the Certified Copy of your Driving Record purchased through them.
- Upload or Mail Required Documents.
- Pay the Drivers Safety Course fee.
Request a Driving Safety Course (DSC) by Mail
Submit all Required Documents by mail to Municipal Court, PO Box 1366, Amarillo, Texas 79105.
The Court assumes no responsibility for delayed, lost, misdirected, incomplete, or postage-due mail.
Consequences for Not Completing Requirements or Non-Compliance
Consequences of Non-Compliance If you fail to comply with the steps above, at the conclusion of the 90-day period, you will be summoned to appear in court to explain why you have not completed the Driving Safety Course requirements.
Failure to meet the conditions may result in a conviction, and you will be required to pay any remaining applicable fines. Failure to pay the fine could result in a warrant for your arrest.
Driving Safety Course (DSC) Information
It is your responsibility to make the necessary arrangements to enroll in and attend an approved Driving Safety Course. The City of Amarillo does not make any recommendations about where you take the course as long as the course is approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). To assist you in making the necessary arrangements to take the course, we offer the following information on courses taught within the local area.
Classroom Courses
Amarillo College
(Photo ID and court name as appears on citation required)
actx.edu/intervention
806-371-5000
Comedy Defensive Driving School
(Driver’s License not required. No age limit.)
Call 806-674-0555 for class information and directions.
Internet Courses with Electronic Court Filing
Comedy Defensive Driving — comedydefensivedriving.com
Comedy Driving Defensive Driving — comedydriving.com
Comedy Safe Driver — comedysafedriver.com
Standard Online Courses
Amarillo College — actx.edu/intervention
For a list of additional Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation approved courses, visit tdlrapproved.com.
Compliance Dismissals
A compliance dismissal allows you to have certain citations dismissed by correcting the violation (such as renewing an expired document or fixing a vehicle issue) and presenting proof of compliance to the court. This helps you avoid fines or convictions for minor infractions that can be resolved easily.
Eligible Violations for Compliance Dismissal:
You may be eligible for a compliance dismissal for the following types of offenses:
- Expired License Plate: Renew your license plate and provide proof of renewal to the court.
- Expired Driver’s License: Renew your driver’s license and show proof of the valid license.
- Violating a Driver’s License Restriction: Correct the issue and provide documentation.
- Operating a Vehicle with Defective Equipment: Fix the defective equipment (like a broken taillight) and provide evidence of the repair.
Offenses Mandated for Dismissal:
The court must dismiss citations for Expired Disabled Parking Placard if you renew or correct your disabled parking placard, the court is required to dismiss this citation.
How to Apply for Compliance Dismissal:
- Contact municipal court to verify your eligibility for a compliance dismissal.
- Submit proof that the violation has been corrected either online, by mail, or in person.
- Once the court verifies compliance, the offense may be dismissed.
Community Service
Community service allows individuals to resolve certain citations by volunteering time with a qualified non-profit or faith-based organization. This option can help reduce fines or fulfill court obligations while giving back to the community.
Approved Organizations
Community service must be completed with an organization recognized under 501(c)(3) status. Check the Community Service Agency List for your age group to find an eligible agency, and review any specific restrictions and hours.
A separate Community Service Log must be submitted for each agency. Community service hours must meet monthly deadlines unless otherwise agreed upon in your signed community service agreement.
- Community Service List – Ages 18 and Younger
- Community Service List – Ages 19 and Older
- Community Service Log
Approval for Other Agencies
If you wish to complete service with an organization not on our list, contact the Court Community Program Coordinator at 806-378-5232 to confirm eligibility before starting. Verification of non-profit status is required for unlisted agencies.
Additional Court Information/Resources
View the evidence in the State’s file by filling out a Request for Discovery