How much are traffic tickets in Texas? This is one of the most searched traffic-law questions in the state — and for good reason. Texas does not have a single, flat ticket price. The true cost of a traffic ticket depends on the violation, your speed, where it occurred, and the court handling your case.
What many drivers don’t realize is that the fine printed on the ticket is often not the final amount. Court costs, state fees, and long-term insurance increases can make a simple citation far more expensive than expected.
Average Cost of Traffic Tickets in Texas
While exact amounts vary by court, these are common statewide ranges for Texas traffic tickets:
- Minor traffic violations: $100–$200
- Speeding (1–10 mph over): $150–$200
- Speeding (11–20 mph over): $200–$300
- Speeding (21–25 mph over): $300–$350+
- Speeding (26+ mph over): $350+ and possible court appearance
- School or construction zone violations: Higher fines
These amounts typically include base fines plus mandatory court costs.
Who Sets Traffic Ticket Prices in Texas?
Texas DPS enforces traffic laws, but local courts set ticket fines. This means the same violation can cost different amounts depending on the city or county.
This explains why drivers searching for statewide pricing often get conflicting answers. For a detailed breakdown, see Texas DPS speeding ticket cost.
Speeding Tickets Make Up Most Texas Traffic Fines
Speeding tickets account for a large percentage of traffic citations in Texas. Even small amounts over the limit can result in costly fines.
Understanding where speeding becomes more serious is critical. These articles explain how Texas treats speed violations:
Hidden Costs of Traffic Tickets in Texas
The fine itself is only part of the cost. Traffic tickets can also lead to:
- Insurance premium increases
- Driver record impacts
- Reduced eligibility for future dismissals
- Multiple violations triggering harsher penalties
Even though Texas eliminated its official point system, insurers still treat tickets like point-based violations. Learn more in how many points a speeding ticket carries in Texas.
Moving Violations Cost More Long-Term
Most traffic tickets that affect insurance are classified as moving violations. Speeding, running stop signs, and similar offenses fall into this category.
If you’re unsure how your ticket is classified, see whether a speeding ticket is a moving violation and why that matters.
What Happens If You Just Pay the Ticket?
Paying a traffic ticket in Texas is a guilty plea. Once paid, the violation becomes a conviction on your driving record.
This is why many drivers look for dismissal options instead of paying outright. Our guide on Texas ticket dismissal requirements explains when dismissal may be possible.
How Much Can Dismissal Save You?
Successfully dismissing a ticket can eliminate the conviction and often reduce or avoid long-term insurance increases. Common dismissal methods include:
- Defensive driving courses
- Deferred disposition
- Correctable violation proof
For course-based options, see the best Texas traffic ticket dismissal courses.
Does a Dismissed Ticket Still Cost Money?
Even dismissed tickets may involve administrative fees or course costs. However, a dismissal usually prevents the violation from appearing as a conviction.
We explain how records work in this guide on dismissed tickets and driving records.
Key Takeaway
Traffic tickets in Texas typically cost between $100 and $350+, depending on the violation, speed, and court. The real cost often includes insurance increases and long-term record impact.
If you’ve received a ticket, understanding your dismissal options could save you hundreds — or more — over time. For next steps, review our Traffic Ticket Dismissal FAQs or reach out through the contact page.