How Long Does a Speeding Ticket Stay on Your Record?

Getting a speeding ticket can seem like a minor setback, but in Texas, it can have far-reaching consequences. Beyond the immediate fine, it can affect your driving record, insurance rates, and even job opportunities. Whether you’re dealing with the ticket’s impact or looking to understand your options for managing it, it’s essential to know what steps you can take to minimize the long-term effects.

How Long Does a Speeding Ticket Stay on Your Record in Texas?

In Texas, a speeding ticket typically remains on your driving record for three years from the date of conviction. During this time, it can add points to your license and lead to increased insurance premiums. If you accumulate too many violations within a short period, you risk license suspension.

What Happens When You Get a Speeding Ticket?

The severity of the consequences depends on how fast you were driving and whether there were aggravating factors, such as reckless driving or speeding in a restricted zone.

1. Receiving the Ticket

A law enforcement officer will issue a citation that details your speed, the posted limit, and the location of the violation. Many drivers rely on radar detectors to stay aware of enforcement zones, but getting pulled over can still happen. If you receive a ticket, you’ll have the option to either pay the fine or contest it in court.

2. Paying the Fine or Fighting the Ticket

• Paying the fine – This is an admission of guilt, and the violation will go on your record, potentially increasing your insurance rates.
• Contesting the ticket – You can challenge the citation in court. If successful, you may receive a reduced penalty or even have the ticket dismissed. Some drivers opt for deferred disposition, which allows the violation to be removed after meeting specific conditions.

3. Impact on Your Driving Record

In Texas, traffic violations are tracked over a 12-month and 24-month period by the Department of Public Safety (DPS). If you accumulate too many moving violations during these periods, you risk having your driver’s license suspended. Specifically, a suspension may occur if:

• You accumulate four or more moving violations within 12 months.
• You accumulate seven or more moving violations within 24 months.

Additionally, under Texas Transportation Code § 521.292, if you are convicted of violations that conflict with restrictions or endorsements on your driver’s license, this could also lead to suspension or disqualification.

4. Insurance Rate Increases

Speeding tickets often lead to higher insurance premiums since insurers view violations as indicators of risky driving behavior. The increase depends on the severity of the offense and your driving history.

5. Impact on Employment

Certain jobs—especially those requiring a clean driving record—may be affected by a speeding ticket. Commercial truck drivers, delivery personnel, and rideshare drivers may face job restrictions or even termination if they accumulate too many violations.

6. Potential for Ticket Dismissal

Some drivers may qualify for a defensive driving course to have the ticket dismissed, provided they were not speeding excessively or in a restricted zone. Courts may also offer deferred disposition, allowing the violation to be removed if no further offenses occur within a set period.

How Much Is a Speeding Ticket?

The cost of a speeding ticket in Texas depends on how fast you were driving over the limit and whether the violation is classified as a misdemeanor offense. Below is a breakdown of the typical fines and misdemeanor classifications.

Base Fines for Speeding in Texas

• 1-5 mph over the limit: $165
• 6-9 mph over the limit: $180
• 10-14 mph over the limit: $195
• 15-19 mph over the limit: $240
• 20-29 mph over the limit: $265
• 30+ mph over the limit: $300

These fines may increase depending on the county, and additional court fees can apply.

Speeding Misdemeanor Classifications in Texas

Texas law categorizes certain speeding violations as misdemeanors based on the severity of the offense:

• Class C Misdemeanor – This is the least severe charge, usually issued for speeds under 10 mph over the limit. It results in a fine but no jail time.
• Class B Misdemeanor – A speeding violation may be classified as a Class B misdemeanor if you were driving 25 mph or more over the limit or engaging in reckless driving. This can lead to higher fines and possible license suspension.
• Class A Misdemeanor – The most serious speeding offense, typically involving excessive speeding (e.g., 30+ mph over the limit), racing, or endangering others. Penalties may include hefty fines and possible jail time.

Additional Costs Beyond the Fine

• Court Fees – Typically range from $50 to $150, depending on the jurisdiction.
• Fines in Special Zones – Speeding in a work zone or school zone can result in double fines.
• Insurance Increases – A single speeding ticket can increase your insurance rates by 10-30% for several years.
• Potential License Suspension – Accumulating too many violations within a set period may lead to a suspended license.

Can a Speeding Ticket Be Removed from Your Record?

Yes, there are ways to remove or reduce the impact of a speeding ticket in Texas. However, eligibility depends on factors such as the severity of the violation and your driving history.

1. Defensive Driving Course

Texas allows drivers to dismiss one eligible traffic ticket every 12 months by completing a state-approved defensive driving course. To qualify, you must:

• Hold a valid Texas driver’s license (non-commercial).
• Not have taken a defensive driving course for ticket dismissal in the past 12 months.
• Have received court approval for ticket dismissal.

However, this option is not available for more serious violations, including:

• Speeding 25 mph or more over the limit.
• Passing a school bus when prohibited.
• Violations committed while driving a commercial vehicle.

2. Deferred Disposition (Probationary Dismissal)

Some courts offer deferred disposition, where your ticket may be dismissed if you complete a probation period (typically 60 to 180 days) without additional violations. You may also need to pay a court fee or meet other conditions, such as taking a driver safety course.

Deferred disposition is typically available for Class C and Class B misdemeanors, but the final decision is at the court’s discretion.

Injured by a Reckless Driver? Mokaram Injury Lawyers Are Here to Help

Speeding tickets in Texas can lead to lasting consequences on your driving record, insurance rates, and even job prospects. Whether you’re dealing with the immediate aftermath of a ticket or the larger impact of a speeding-related accident, knowing your options is essential. From taking a defensive driving course to exploring deferred disposition, there are ways to mitigate the effects. However, if you’ve been in an accident with someone who was speeding, the legal complexities can grow significantly. In such cases, having the right legal team by your side can make all the difference. At Mokaram Injury Lawyers, our car accident lawyers specialize in providing expert legal assistance to help you navigate these situations and secure the best possible outcome for your case.