Quick answer
Act immediately and follow the current DMV procedure for the ticket’s age.
Do now
Check the issue or mailing date and the official record. DMV says a contest request received within 30 calendar days avoids additional penalties. Later periods can involve doubled fines and, after default, a motion to vacate with separate limits.
Watch for
Do not treat the outer relief window as a penalty-free extension. Mailing a request may not satisfy a receipt deadline. Criminal charges are a different process.
Official sources
DC DMV — Contest Parking and Photo Tickets, DC DMV — How to Contest a Ticket.
