TX Traffic Law
Texas processes millions of traffic citations each year across its vast network of highways and city streets. The state uses the Driver Responsibility Program surcharge system and a points-based tracking system. Texas courts generally allow defendants to contest citations by written plea, in-person appearance, or defensive driving course completion.
Contest My TX Ticket — $4.99Texas assesses 2 points for moving violations and 3 points for violations resulting in an accident. If you accumulate 6 or more points within 3 years, the Driver Responsibility Program requires annual surcharges of $100 for the first 6 points plus $25 for each additional point. Points remain on your record for 3 years from the date of conviction.
Texas traffic fines are moderate compared to states like California. Speeding 1-10 mph over is typically $150-$200 with court costs. Speeding 11-20 mph over ranges from $200-$300. Red light violations are $75-$250. Cell phone violations (texting while driving) carry fines of $99-$200. School zone violations carry doubled fines.
Texas offers several contest options: plea of not guilty followed by a bench trial or jury trial, written plea of not guilty with evidence submitted by mail, request for deferred disposition (adjudication) — the judge dismisses the case if you meet certain conditions, or defensive driving course completion which can dismiss the ticket. The deadline to enter a plea is typically listed on your citation.
Key Texas traffic laws include: Transportation Code 545.352 (speed restrictions), 544.007 (traffic signals), 545.157 (HOV lanes), 545.4251 (texting while driving ban). Texas has banned red light cameras statewide since 2019. Texas also has specific provisions for commercial vehicle violations and school zone enforcement.
Are red light cameras legal in Texas?
No. Texas banned red light cameras statewide in 2019, though some cities with existing contracts were allowed to continue until those contracts expired.
Can I take defensive driving to dismiss a ticket in Texas?
In many cases, yes. Texas allows eligible drivers to complete a state-approved defensive driving course to dismiss a citation. Eligibility depends on your driving record and the type of violation.
What is deferred disposition in Texas?
Deferred disposition allows a judge to defer a finding of guilt. If you meet certain conditions (no new violations, complete requirements), the case is dismissed.
Speeding Ticket
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Red Light Camera Ticket
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Stop Sign Ticket
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Parking Citation
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HOV Lane Violation
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Cell Phone Ticket
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