The Cost of Speeding Tickets in Texas and How to Contest Them

Speeding tickets in Texas come with more than just a fine — they can lead to added expenses such as court fees, insurance hikes and surcharges. Knowing the full costs and options for contesting a ticket can help you make informed choices, save money and protect your record.

This guide highlights ticket costs, steps to take if you receive one and tips for contesting a ticket.

Overview of Speeding Tickets in Texas

In Texas, speeding tickets are issued when drivers exceed posted speed limits or fail to adjust for specific road conditions, such as school zones or construction areas. Texas prioritizes speed limit enforcement on highways and city roads. They also use prima facie speed limits, which allow some discretion depending on factors like weather or traffic.

Penalties vary based on the severity of the offense and its location. For example, speeding in a school or construction zone results in higher fines and stricter penalties. Though Texas no longer uses a point system, these tickets still carry significant financial and legal consequences, including fines, potential license suspension and higher insurance premiums.

How Much Does a Speeding Ticket Cost in Texas?

Your speeding ticket cost depends on several factors. In Texas, speeding tickets include additional charges beyond the base fine, which can impact your finances, driving record and insurance premiums.

Base fines and fees: Fines vary by county and offense level, typically around $185 for minor speeding and up to $350 or more for severe cases. School or construction zones often double the fine amount.
Court and administrative fees: Additional fees, typically $50 to $150, apply to most tickets, regardless of whether you contest them.
Increased insurance premiums: A single ticket can increase premiums by 10% to 15%, with higher rate hikes for repeated offenses.
Indirect costs: Tickets can lead to suspension and reinstatement fees, adding to the long-term financial impact.

Receiving speeding tickets can lead to license suspension and negatively affect employment opportunities, particularly for jobs requiring a clean driving history.

Frequent violations can also result in higher insurance premiums or policy cancellation, as insurance companies may classify you as a high-risk driver.

How to Contest a Texas Speeding Ticket

If you're wondering how to get a speeding ticket off your record, following the proper legal process can make all the difference. Here are the steps to take when contesting your ticket:

Request a court appearance: Contact the court listed on your ticket to formally request a hearing. Complete this step by the ticket's specified deadline to avoid automatic penalties.
Gather evidence: Build your case by collecting evidence that supports your defense. Useful items may include GPS data, dashcam footage, photos of unclear or obscured signage or witness statements if applicable.
Understand possible defenses: Common defenses include questioning the accuracy of speed-measuring devices (e.g., a radar gun), unclear speed limit signs, or special circumstances like hazardous weather that may have impacted your speed.
Explore deferred disposition: Some Texas courts offer deferred disposition, a probationary period where your ticket is dismissed if you meet specific conditions (e.g., no violations for a set time). Eligibility varies, and certain offenses (like those in school zones) may not qualify.
Consider taking a defensive driving course: Eligible drivers can take an approved defensive driving course to dismiss a traffic violation, typically for minor offenses. This option is available once per year and may require court approval.
Hire a traffic attorney: For complex cases or severe fines, consulting a traffic attorney can improve your chances of successfully contesting a ticket by navigating legal nuances and presenting your case effectively in court.

If successful, contesting a speeding ticket can result in the ticket being dismissed, reduced penalties or a lower fine. However, if the court rules against the driver, the original fines, fees and penalties will likely apply.

Dismiss Your Speeding Ticket with Our Defensive Driving Course

If you've received a speeding ticket in Texas, consider taking our defensive driving course to potentially dismiss your ticket and avoid the associated costs. Our course is state-approved, self-paced and designed to help you stay safe on the road while saving money on insurance.

With a focus on Texas traffic laws, you'll gain the knowledge to better navigate the roads and protect your record. Enroll today to stay informed, avoid costly mistakes and keep your driving history clean.