What general information must be included in a traffic citation?

The inclusion of the name and address of the person charged in a traffic citation is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, this information ensures that the citation is correctly attributed to the individual who committed the offense, which is vital for the legal process. Accurate identification helps in the proper enforcement of laws, as it allows authorities to notify the individual about their obligations regarding the citation, such as replying to it, paying fines, or attending court.

Furthermore, having the name and address on the citation enables law enforcement to follow up if necessary and is important for maintaining official records. It ensures that there is a clear and traceable link between the offense and the individual, which is foundational in maintaining order and accountability on the roads.

The other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not hold the same fundamental importance for a traffic citation as the identifying information of the person charged. For example, while an officer’s badge number can help verify the citation, it is not critical for its validity. Similarly, the vehicle's registration number may be important for identifying the vehicle involved, and the time of day might provide context for the offense, but the actual identification of the person responsible is of paramount importance in the process of issuing and upholding a traffic citation.