Can a ticket (a fine) received on public transport be challenged?

Verified 05 March 2024 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

You can challenge a fine in transport (bus, metro, train...) if you consider that the non-presentation of your ticket was without intent to defraud. For example, you could not compost your ticket because the composting kiosks were not working.

You have 3 months to file a complaint with the carrier customer service by registered letter with a notice of receipt (its address appears on your fine).

You can use a template letter to write your mail:

If you are not satisfied with the answer or if you do not get an answer within 1 month, you can appeal to the company mediator.

For example, if it's the SNCF: titleContent :

Refer online to the SNCF Ombudsman

If it's the RATP: titleContent :

Contact the RATP Ombudsman online