Texas Traffic Violation Point System

If you’ve ever been pulled over in Texas, you know the sinking feeling of seeing flashing lights in your rear-view mirror. Maybe you were speeding. Maybe you rolled through a stop sign. Maybe you made an “aggressive” lane change because the guy next to you wouldn’t let you merge.

Whatever the reason, that one ticket could be the start of a chain reaction that leads to higher insurance rates, costly surcharges, and even the loss of your driver’s license.

That’s because Texas, like most states, has a point system that keeps track of your driving record — and if you rack up too many points, the State will come after your license.

Today, I’m going to break down exactly how the Texas point system works, the hidden consequences you might not know about. Recent reports have found that traffic violations can have additional impacts on your record and finances beyond what most drivers expect. And why fighting your ticket might save you way more than just the fine.

First Things First: The Point System Is Real (and It’s Watching You)

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) keeps a record of every driver’s traffic violations. When you commit certain infractions, the State assigns points to your record.

These points stick around for three years from the date of your conviction. They aren’t like “good behavior” points you get in school — these are bad points, and the more you get, the more trouble you’re in.

Moving Violations vs. Non-Moving Violations

The first thing to understand is the difference between moving violations and non-moving violations.

• Moving violations happen when your vehicle is in motion. Speeding, running a red light, unsafe lane changes, failing to yield — those are moving violations.
• Non-moving violations happen when your vehicle is parked or otherwise not moving. Parking in a handicap spot without a permit? That’s a non-moving violation.

How Points Are Assigned

• 2 Points – Any moving violation (whether in Texas or another state).
• 3 Points – Any moving violation that results in a crash.

That means if you get into a fender bender while making an illegal turn, you’re looking at three points, not two.

Common Moving Violations That Add Points to Your Record

You might be surprised how quickly these can stack up:

• Speeding (even just a few miles over the limit)
• Running a red light or stop sign
• Unsafe lane changes
• Illegal U-turns
• Driving without insurance
• Driving without a valid license
• Failing to yield the right-of-way
• Following too closely

And yes — driving while intoxicated (DWI) is considered a moving violation, but here’s where it gets tricky…

Not Every Offense Uses Points — Some Use Automatic Surcharges

Texas actually has two systems for punishing drivers financially:

1. The Point System – Get enough points, and you’ll start paying surcharges every year until you drop below the threshold.
2. Conviction-Based Surcharges – For certain serious offenses like DWI, the State doesn’t even bother with points. Instead, you get hit with automatic surcharges that can cost $1,000–$2,000 per year for three years.

For example:

• DWI (first offense) – $1,000/year for three years.
• DWI (second or more offense) – $1,500/year for three years.
• Driving without insurance – $250/year for three years.

These costs are on top of fines, court costs, and any penalties imposed by the judge.

What Happens When Officials Say You Rack Up Too Many Points?

Here’s where drivers start getting into real trouble.

If you get six points or more on your record within a three-year period, the State will send you a bill — literally. You’ll have to pay a yearly surcharge just for the privilege of keeping your license.

If you keep collecting violations, the consequences escalate:

• License Suspension – If you’re convicted of seven or more moving violations within a two-year period, Texas can suspend your license.
• Insurance Rate Increases – Your insurance company will see the points on your record and raise your premiums — sometimes drastically.
• Commercial License Problems – If you drive for a living, even a small number of points can make it difficult or impossible to keep your CDL.

The Points Are Only Half the Problem

The biggest mistake I see drivers make is thinking:

“It’s just a ticket. I’ll pay it and move on.”

Here’s the thing — when you pay a ticket in Texas, you’re not “just paying the fine.” You’re pleading guilty. That conviction goes on your driving record, adds points, and can stick around for three years.

And once those points are there, you can’t just “pay them off.” You have to wait for them to expire.

Understanding Your Driving Record: What’s Really on File (and Why It Matters)

In Galveston County, Texas, keeping your driving record clean isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about contributing to a safer community for everyone. As the city of Galveston continues to grow and evolve, local officials are hard at work each week, reviewing documents and updating city policies to improve road safety and traffic flow. For example, every August, the city’s Traffic Department begins testing all school zone flashing lights, making sure students have a safe head start when they return to school in September. This annual effort is part of the city’s mission to protect children and students, and it highlights the important role that education and awareness play in keeping our roads safe.

Staying informed about your driving record file is more important than ever. The city regularly issues updates and information on its official page, so drivers can find the latest results of council meetings, infrastructure projects, and safety initiatives. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting Galveston County, taking the time to check your record and understand what’s on file can help you avoid unexpected penalties and keep your insurance rates in check.

It’s also crucial to pay attention to vehicle recalls—like the widely publicized Takata air bag recall. If your vehicle has been recalled, you are required to take action to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides up-to-date information and documents on their page, so you can quickly find out if your car is affected and what steps to take next.

Education remains a top priority for the city, with officials offering workshops and resources throughout the year to help drivers of all ages and interests stay informed. Whether you’re a student just starting out or a seasoned driver, taking advantage of these educational opportunities can make a real difference. And if you ever find yourself involved in a traffic incident, be sure to file the necessary documents and gather all required information—city officials are committed to providing support and guidance every step of the way.

As Galveston County continues to update its infrastructure and policies, the results will benefit everyone who lives, works, or visits here. By staying engaged, following updates, and making safety a priority, we can all contribute to the city’s mission of making Galveston a great—and safe—place to drive. Gee, with so many positive changes on the horizon, it’s an exciting time for drivers in Galveston County!

Can You Get Points Removed?

Yes, in some cases. Texas allows drivers to take a defensive driving course to dismiss certain traffic tickets. This can keep points off your record — but it’s not available for every violation, and you can only use it once every 12 months.

For more serious charges, the only way to keep points off your record is to fight the ticket in court and avoid a conviction.

Why Fighting a Ticket Is Often Cheaper Than Just Paying It

Here’s a simple example:

Let’s say you get a speeding ticket for going 15 mph over the limit. The fine might be $200. If you just pay it:

• You get 2 points on your record for three years.
• Your insurance rates go up $30/month — that’s $1,080 over three years.
• If you get other tickets, you risk surcharges or license suspension.

Suddenly, that $200 ticket actually costs you more than $1,200.

The Texas DPS Point System Is Designed to Make You Pay — Over and Over Again

And here’s the kicker — Texas collects millions of dollars every year in surcharges from drivers who don’t understand the system. Once you’re in the point cycle, it’s hard to get out without help.

What We Do in Galveston County — And Where We Do It

At The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates, we fight traffic violation cases only in Galveston County, which is located along the Gulf Coast adjacent to Galveston Bay.

That means if you got a ticket in:

• Galveston
• League City (the most populous municipality in Galveston County)
• Friendswood (Galveston County side)
• Texas City
• La Marque
• Dickinson
• Santa Fe
• Galveston
• League City
• Friendswood (Galveston County side)
• Texas City
• La Marque
• Dickinson
• Santa Fe

For example, many court hearings and important legal updates, such as arraignments or verdicts, are scheduled on a Wednesday, which can be a critical day for your case.

…then we can help.

We know the local courts, the judges, the prosecutors, and the best strategies to keep your record clean. We’ve helped countless Galveston County drivers avoid points, surcharges, and suspensions. Official notices or warnings about traffic violations are often issued by local authorities, so it’s important to respond promptly. As of the 2020 census, Galveston County had a population of 350,682.

If your ticket is outside Galveston County, we’re happy to recommend other trusted attorneys — but our focus is fighting for local drivers.

Bottom Line

The Texas point system isn’t just about punishing bad drivers — it’s a revenue machine. Every ticket you don’t fight is another dollar for the State and another hit to your insurance bill.

If you’ve been ticketed in Galveston County, call us before you pay anything. You might save your license, your wallet, and your driving record.