Administrative court hearings are almost never required and most disputes can be resolved over the phone by the first customer service representative you speak with.

Learn more about the easiest ways to dispute a toll bill or request first-time penalty forgiveness.

Why would an administrative court hearing be necessary?
Administrative hearings are very uncommon. In some rare cases, it may be necessary to request a written review or tele-hearing by an administrative court judge:

• If you disagree with an administrative court judgment, you may request that the judge reconsiders your case within 10 days after the final order is issued to you.
• Customers who repeatedly pay their toll bills late and have requested civil penalty forgiveness multiple times will be required to submit a formal dispute and may need to attend an administrative tele-hearing.
• Anyone has the right to request an administrative hearing, but this is not necessary in most cases.

What will the judge’s decision be based on?
State law lists specific reasons why an administrative law judge can dismiss a toll bill or civil penalty. You must provide evidence proving that one of these circumstances applies to you. Learn more about the acceptable reasons to dispute a toll bill or penalty.

How to submit a written dispute
Deliver the completed form included with your civil penalty to a customer service center or mail it to:

Good To Go!
P.O. Box 300326
Seattle, WA 98103

You should include any evidence to support your case in your dispute request. You may also include your written testimony and photos. For example, if your vehicle was sold or stolen, include a DOL Seller’s report of sale  or police report.

The Toll Enforcement Office must receive your documents by the due date listed on your civil penalty. Sign the bottom of your written testimony and keep a copy of all documents.

The administrative judge will review the evidence presented by the Toll Enforcement Office and by you. The judge will issue a Final Order and a copy will be mailed to you.

How to request a tele-hearing
Call Good To Go! or visit a customer service center prior to the due date on the civil penalty to make arrangements.

The Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) will conduct all tele-hearings. You will receive a notice of hearing from OAH within two weeks of your request. Read it carefully, as it will include the date, time, and instructions on how to participate.

If you’re unable to attend your tele-hearing, please call the Office of Administrative Hearings customer service at (253) 476-6888 or (800) 583-8271.

How do I prepare for a tele-hearing
Please follow these guidelines to prepare your for tele-hearing:

• If you are using a cell phone, make sure the battery is fully charged.
• Try to have good, clear reception. If the judge cannot hear you, your case may have to be rescheduled.
• Be in a quiet location.
• You must be able to receive calls from a blocked caller ID or unknown number.
• Have a pen and paper available for note taking.
• Have all documents with you during the hearing.
• You may not be driving during the hearing.
• Do not multitask. The judge will expect your full attention.

Evidence packages
The Toll Enforcement Office prepares an evidence package prior to your case that includes copies of account notes, toll bills, and civil penalties. A copy will be mailed to you prior to the hearing date. 

Hearing length 
The length of a hearing will depend on the type and complexity of your case. Most hearings last an hour or less.

Tele-hearing review and decision
Administrative hearings are less formal than a state court trial, but follow a basic structure to ensure fairness and due process of law. The judge will present evidence provided by the Toll Enforcement Office, which may include the civil penalty, toll bills and account notes.

You will then have the opportunity to present your evidence. Please follow the instructions on the Notice of Hearing about submitting your evidence. You may:

• Introduce written testimony
• Testify yourself
• Call witnesses
• Offer photos or other evidence

The judge will then determine whether you are liable or not liable.

If you don’t take part in the tele-hearing
You may be held liable by default and be required to pay the civil penalty, toll and fees.

Payment
If you are found liable, payment is due within 10 days. If you do not pay, a hold will be placed on your vehicle registration until all amounts held liable are paid.