Traffic citation is another term for traffic ticket in most jurisdictions, with the same unpleasant effects. They are handed out by police officers for traffic offenses.
Citation Equals Ticket
The word "citation" has a variety of meanings, but when cars and police are involved, it refers to a traffic ticket. It's a document stating that you are charged with a traffic offense. For many traffic citations, like speeding, you may simply write a check and send it to the court together with the ticket. As a result, your insurance rates may rise. For more serious offenses such as driving under the influence, however, you must appear in court and enter a plea. You may face fines and possible imprisonment.
Read More: What Is a Traffic Citation?
Violation Versus Citation
A traffic citation may charge you with one traffic violation or with several offenses. The violation is a reference to the traffic law you are charged with breaking; the citation is the document that notifies you of the charges and sets out your options.