What is the difference between a misdemeanor and an infraction?

An infraction is typically a non-criminal violation punished by a fine (and sometimes other civil penalties) without jail as a sentence for the infraction itself. A misdemeanor is a crime, usually punishable by up to one year in county jail (definitions vary by state). ^[1][2] Examples Many traffic tickets are infractions. Petty theft below a threshold might be a misdemeanor; more serious conduct becomes a felony. Criminal record Infractions generally do not create the same criminal conviction record as misdemeanors (state exceptions exist). When infractions escalate Repeated offenses or aggravating facts can sometimes bump conduct to misdemeanor status under state law. State-specific Always read your state's classification statutes. California Penal Code Section 19.6 defines infraction in that state. ^[2]