Will a Speeding Ticket Raise My Auto Insurance Rates in Texas?

The Short Answer

Yes — a speeding ticket usually raises your auto insurance rates in Texas. But how much, and for how long, depends on a few things.

How Much Will My Rates Go Up?

On average, a single speeding ticket in Texas raises rates by about 20–30%. But the exact number depends on:

• How fast you were going — 10 mph over is very different from 25 mph over.
• Where you were ticketed — school zones and construction zones carry bigger penalties.
• Your driving history — a first ticket is treated more gently than a third.
• Your insurance company — every insurer calculates risk differently.

How Long Does a Ticket Stay on My Record?

In Texas, a speeding ticket stays on your driving record for 3 years for most insurance purposes. That's also how long the rate increase typically lasts.

The good news: the impact fades over time. Year one is the hardest. By year three, if you keep a clean record, you're often back to normal.

Can I Keep a Ticket Off My Record?

Sometimes, yes. Here are your options in Texas:

Defensive Driving Course

If you haven't taken one in the past 12 months, you can often take a state-approved defensive driving course to dismiss the ticket. It keeps the ticket off your record and your rates from going up.

Deferred Adjudication

Some courts offer "deferred disposition" — if you stay ticket-free for a set period (usually 90–180 days), the ticket is dismissed.

Fight It in Court

If you think the ticket was wrong, you can contest it. This takes time, but if you win, it won't appear on your record at all.

Not sure which option applies to you? The court listed on your ticket will have the details — or call us and we'll help you understand your options.

What If I Just Pay the Fine?

Paying the fine is the same as pleading guilty. The ticket goes on your record, and your insurance will likely find out at your next renewal.

Will My Insurance Find Out Automatically?

Yes, in most cases. Insurance companies check driving records at renewal time. Some also check mid-term. So even if you don't tell them, they'll usually know.

How to Keep Your Rates Down After a Ticket

• Take a defensive driving course to dismiss the ticket if you can.
• Shop your coverage — different insurers price tickets differently. We can compare quotes for you.
• Ask about discounts — many companies offer telematics (safe-driving apps) that can lower your rate even with a ticket.
• Keep your record clean going forward — the longer you go without another ticket, the less this one matters.

The Bottom Line

One ticket isn't the end of the world, but it will likely cost you for a few years. The smart move is to act fast — dismiss it if you can, and make sure you're on the best-priced coverage for your situation.

Got a ticket? Want to see if you're overpaying? We're a local, family-owned agency in Tyler, TX. Call (903) 595-5428 — hablamos español.