How Much Is a Speeding Ticket for 20 Over in Texas

Speeding ticket 20 over Texas is one of the most common traffic violations in the state. Every year, thousands of Texas drivers get caught going 20 mph above the posted speed limit. The total cost typically ranges from $300 to $385 in fines and court fees. However, the real financial hit often comes from insurance rate increases that last for years.

Under Texas Transportation Code Section 545.352, exceeding the posted limit is a Class C misdemeanor. That means it carries criminal penalties, even though most people think of it as just a fine. If you recently received a speeding ticket 20 over Texas roadways, understanding the full cost and your options can save you hundreds of dollars.

How Much Does a Speeding Ticket 20 Over Texas Actually Cost?

The base fine for a speeding ticket 20 over Texas highways is approximately $265. On top of that, courts add fees ranging from $50 to $150. As a result, most drivers pay between $300 and $385 total. The exact amount depends on the municipality where you were cited. For example, Houston-area courts charge around $309 for speeds 20 to 29 mph over the limit. Dallas-area courts set fees closer to $251.

Special zones carry much steeper penalties. In a school zone, fines are doubled. That pushes the total to $400 to $600 or more. Construction zones with workers present also trigger double fines. In those areas, the maximum penalty can reach $1,000. These enhanced penalties require proper signage to apply.

One piece of good news: Texas repealed the Driver Responsibility Program in September 2019. Previously, drivers with multiple violations faced annual surcharges of $100 or more for three years. In most cases today, the fine and court costs are your only direct expenses from the court.

Points, Insurance, and Long-Term Consequences

Texas no longer assigns points to your license under the old surcharge system. However, the violation still goes on your driving record. That record matters because insurance companies use it to set your rates. Typically, a speeding ticket 20 over Texas roads leads to a 13% to 21% increase in your premiums. Some insurers raise rates even higher, up to 25%.

The insurance increase lasts about three years. For a driver paying $2,000 per year, a 20% increase adds $400 annually. Over three years, that totals $1,200 in extra insurance costs alone. Combined with the original fine, a single speeding ticket 20 over Texas highways can cost you $1,500 or more.

There are also license suspension risks to consider. If you accumulate four or more moving violations within 12 months, the Texas Department of Public Safety can suspend your license. Seven violations within 24 months triggers the same consequence. For most drivers, a single ticket will not cause a suspension. But if you already have violations on your record, this ticket could push you over the threshold.

How to Fight or Dismiss a Speeding Ticket 20 Over in Texas

The best option for most drivers is a defensive driving course. A speeding ticket 20 over Texas speed limits qualifies for dismissal through this program. The course takes six hours and costs as little as $25. You must complete it within 90 days of your plea. Upon completion, the ticket is dismissed and does not appear on your driving record.

There are eligibility requirements to keep in mind. You need a valid non-commercial driver’s license. You cannot have taken a defensive driving course in the past 12 months. You must plead guilty or no contest to the violation first. Importantly, this option disappears at 25 mph over the limit. A speeding ticket 20 over Texas roads sits right at the edge of eligibility.

If you choose to contest the ticket instead, you can request a court hearing. At the hearing, the officer must prove you were actually speeding. Radar and lidar calibration records can sometimes be challenged. For example, if the device was not recently calibrated, the speed reading may be unreliable. Many drivers also negotiate with prosecutors for a reduced charge, which can lower fines and keep the violation off their record. Consulting a traffic attorney is worth considering, especially if your driving record already has violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a speeding ticket 20 over Texas dismissed completely?

Yes. In most cases, you can take a six-hour defensive driving course to dismiss the ticket entirely. However, you can only use this option once every 12 months. As a result, it is smart to save it for your most serious violation if you have multiple tickets.

Will a speeding ticket 20 over Texas go on my criminal record?

Speeding is classified as a Class C misdemeanor in Texas. However, it typically does not result in jail time or a criminal record for most purposes. If you dismiss the ticket through defensive driving, it will not appear on your driving record at all. For example, most background checks will not flag a dismissed traffic ticket.

How long does a speeding ticket 20 over Texas stay on my driving record?

A convicted speeding violation stays on your Texas driving record for three years. During that time, it can affect your insurance rates and count toward license suspension thresholds. Typically, the biggest insurance impact occurs in the first year after the conviction.

Check Your Ticket Impact

Find out exactly what your speeding ticket will cost you — including the hidden insurance increase most drivers miss. Use our free tools to get the full picture.

Official Sources & Resources

For verified traffic law and speeding ticket information:

• NHTSA (Speed Data): nhtsa.gov
• NCSL (State Traffic Laws): ncsl.org
• AAA Foundation: aaafoundation.org
• IIHS (Insurance Data): iihs.org
• State DMV Websites: Check your state DMV for official point values and fine schedules

Content last reviewed June 2026. If you notice any outdated information, please contact us.

Related Guides

• Speeding Ticket Costs by State
• Driving Points by State
• Traffic School by State
• Speeding Ticket Cost Calculator
• Insurance Impact Estimator

Disclaimer. The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Fine amounts, point values, and traffic laws vary by jurisdiction and may change without notice. The creators assume no liability for accuracy or completeness. Always verify with your local court, DMV, or a qualified traffic attorney for advice specific to your situation.