Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How can I get a traffic ticket for a mechanical violation signed off?

Most mechanical violations (fix-it tickets) can be signed off after the appropriate corrections have been made. Bring the citation and the vehicle to the Imperial Beach Sheriff's Station during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). A charge of $15.00 is required for this service.

Q. How can I view "Megan's Law" information about sex offenders who may be living in my community?

You may view this information at the Imperial Beach Sheriff's Station. To obtain the necessary appointment, call the station at (619) 498-2400 during regular business hours. Appointments are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Registration records are searched by ZIP code. Street addresses are not available from these records.

Q. I have been notified that I have property at the Station. How can I get it back?

If you wish to have property returned to you from Sheriff's evidence, please contact the station during business hours at (619) 498-2400 and make the necessary arrangements.

Q. I need to get fingerprints taken. When can I do this and how much does it cost?

For fingerprints, please schedule an appointment by phoning (619) 498-2400 during business hours. The fee is $6.00 per fingerprint card. Payment may be made by cash or check. Valid identification such as California driver's license or passport must be presented by the person requesting the fingerprints .

Q. How do I obtain a copy of a traffic or crime report?

Copies of all reports taken by the Imperial Beach Sheriff's Station personnel are retained for one year at the station. Requests for older reports should be made to the Sheriff's Records Division (858) 974-2110. There is no charge for the first copy of a crime report provided to a victim. Crime reports may be released with the authorization of the detective assigned to the report. Occasionally, circumstances may preclude the release of a report to anyone. Traffic accident reports may be released to any person named in the report, their attorney or insurance company.

Q. How do I obtain a restraining order?

Commonly issued restraining orders prohibit domestic violence or civil harassment.  Restraining orders must be issued by the Superior court.  Restraining order forms are available from the Clerk's Office of the Superior Court.  Once the restraining order is issued by the court, two copies should be delivered to the nearest Sheriff's Court Services Division office to be entered into the Sheriff's Restraining Order computer system.  The Sheriff's Department will also attempt service for you if you so request.

Superior Court office hours are 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. They are located at:

Q. What should I do if I'm pulled over by an officer?

Carefully move to the right side of the roadway and stop in a safe place. Stay in your car. Roll down the window and take no further action until the deputy instructs you. Whenever you drive, ensure that you have your driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance with you.

Q. What should I do if I'm involved in a collision?

Vehicle collisions fall into three categories: 1.) Vehicle vs. private property (utility pole, tree, fence), 2.) Vehicle vs. vehicle (automobile, bicycle, trolley, train) and 3.) Vehicle vs. pedestrian. If there is an injury, (including complaint of pain) if it involves a hit-and-run, or if the vehicle(s) are blocking traffic, call 911. If there are no injuries and both parties are at the scene, you may exchange information with the other party (vehicle registration information, driver's license information, insurance information, name and telephone number.) Always move your vehicle to a safe area out of the traffic lane before exchanging information. All vehicle collisions occurring in the City of Imperial Beach are handled by the Imperial Beach Sheriff's Station Traffic Deputies. Collisions occurring within the unincorporated areas are handled by the California Highway Patrol. Traffic collision reports take approximately 10-12 days for completion depending upon the complexity. Once the report is completed, all parties, including involved insurance companies, are entitled to copies of the collision report. Information or a copy of your collision report can be obtained at the Imperial Beach Sheriff's Station or by phoning (619) 498-2400. The California Department of Motor Vehicles, under Vehicle Code section 16000, requires that you furnish proof of insurance within 10 days after a motor vehicle collision has occurred when either of the following conditions applies: 1.) Bodily injury is reported, or 2.) When the property damage to any of the involved vehicles exceeds $750.00. If you collision meets the above requirements, complete form SR1 and return it to the Department of Motor Vehicles.