Traffic Rule 3 sets out what a traffic ticket is and what the officer must do with it. This page explains the rule in plain language and links to the official text. It does not copy the rule, because copied rule text goes out of date.
In an Ohio traffic case, the "Ohio Uniform Traffic Ticket" is both the complaint (the formal charge) and the summons (the order to come to court). (Traf.R. 3(A))
The uniform ticket must be used in all moving traffic cases. For parking and equipment violations, each local area may choose whether to use it. An officer may list more than one violation on one ticket if they are numbered in order on the face of the ticket. (Traf.R. 3(C))
Under Rule 3(E)(1), an officer who writes a ticket must:
complete and sign it,
serve (give) you a copy, and
file the court record with the court without unnecessary delay.
If the officer hands you the ticket personally, the officer notes the date of personal service on the ticket. If the officer cannot serve you, another officer from the same agency may serve it, or it may be filed with the clerk so the court can issue a warrant or summons under Criminal Rule 4. A ticket charging only minor misdemeanors must first be issued as a summons. (Traf.R. 3(E)(1))
Rule 3(E)(2) requires the officer to tell you that if you do not appear at the time and place on the ticket, or comply with R.C. 2935.26(C), your license will be cancelled, you will not be eligible for a license for one year after cancellation, and you will face any criminal penalties that apply. Take the court date on your ticket seriously. (Traf.R. 3(E)(2); R.C. 2935.26)
A court may adopt local rules allowing tickets printed by computer and filed electronically. An electronic ticket does not need your signature. It must conform "in all substantive respects" to the uniform ticket, but the paper color, weight, size and binding rules do not apply to it. If an electronic ticket is issued at the scene, the officer must serve you with your paper copy. (Traf.R. 3(F))
Rule 3(G) now says that when the Revised Code requires the clerk to issue a supplemental citation on a minor misdemeanor, notice may be sent by e-mail or text message (if an officer gave the clerk your address or number), by any Criminal Rule 4 summons method, or by regular mail. Make sure the contact information you give an officer is correct, and watch your e-mail, texts and mail. (Traf.R. 3(G))
Read your copy of the ticket carefully, especially the court name, date and time.
If anything on the ticket is unclear, call the clerk of the court named on the ticket.
Procedures such as paying without a court appearance vary by court and by offense. Ask the clerk or check the court's website and local rules.
Rule 3 was amended in 2014 and again in 2026. An old copy of the rule can mislead you. This page gives a summary and links to the official rule. If this summary and the official rule differ, the official rule controls.
Last verified: 2026-10-13