How Much Is a No-Insurance Ticket in Texas?

Finding out how much a ticket is for no insurance in Texas can be a wake-up call for any driver. A single stop by law enforcement can quickly become more than just a fine—it’s a chain reaction that may affect your license, bank account, and even your ability to get affordable coverage in the future. In Texas, this violation is officially known as Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility, carrying both immediate and long-term consequences. At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, we believe drivers should have clear, accurate information about these penalties to make wise decisions and protect their driving privileges.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage

Texas law requires all drivers to carry a minimum auto liability insurance to prove they can cover damages or injuries caused in a car accident. This is sometimes referred to as the state’s “financial responsibility” requirement. Under the Texas Transportation Code, the minimum coverage amounts are:

• $30,000 for bodily injury or death per person.
• $60,000 for bodily injury or death per accident.
• $25,000 for property damage per accident.

This is known as 30/60/25 coverage. Without this coverage in place, you risk receiving a no-insurance ticket if stopped by law enforcement or involved in a crash. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, failure to meet these requirements can trigger both immediate fines and long-term consequences.

Fine Chart

According to the Texas Municipal Courts Education Center (TMCEC), municipal courts have the authority to impose these fines and surcharges and take administrative actions, such as suspending licenses for repeat offenders.

• For a first offense, the fine typically ranges from $175 to $350, and you may also be responsible for additional court costs.
• For a second or subsequent offense, the fine increases to $350 to $1,000, and the court may impose further consequences such as driver’s license suspension.

In both scenarios, the court can also order an annual surcharge of $250 for three consecutive years, which adds $750 to your total cost.

Beyond the fines, you may also face vehicle impoundment, towing and storage fees, and the requirement to file an SR-22 certificate with the Texas Department of Public Safety before your license can be reinstated.

Financial Consequences

The impact of a no-insurance ticket extends well beyond the fine itself. You may also face:

• Higher Insurance Premiums: Insurance companies often raise rates after a no-insurance violation. In many cases, you’ll be required to file an SR-22 certificate, proof of future financial responsibility, making premiums even more expensive.
• Vehicle Impoundment: If stopped by law enforcement, your car could be towed and impounded. Before reclaiming your vehicle, you would be responsible for towing, storage, and administrative fees.
• Court Costs and Fees: Texas municipal and justice courts can add processing fees to your total due.
• Loss of Discounts: Safe driver or multi-policy discounts can be revoked after a violation.

Even one citation can have a lasting financial impact, especially when compounded by surcharges and insurance hikes.

License Suspension & Reinstatement

A judge may suspend your driver’s license after repeated no-insurance convictions. In such cases, you cannot legally drive until you meet all reinstatement requirements, which may include:

• Paying all outstanding fines, fees, and surcharges imposed by the court.
• Filing and maintaining an SR-22 certificate with the Texas Department of Public Safety for the duration required.
• Paying a reinstatement fee directly to the Texas DPS.
• Completing a defensive driving course is required if ordered by the court.
• Attending a compliance hearing to prove you meet all reinstatement criteria.

Driving before completing these steps can lead to further criminal penalties, extended suspension periods, and vehicle forfeiture.

Accident Liability Without Insurance

If you cause an accident while uninsured, Texas law holds you personally liable for damages. This means you must pay for:

• Medical expenses for injured drivers, passengers, or pedestrians.
• Property damage repairs or replacements for vehicles, buildings, or other damaged property.
• Lost wages if injured parties miss work due to accident-related injuries.
• Court-ordered judgments if the damages exceed your ability to pay, potentially leading to wage garnishment or liens.
• Additional penalties include license suspension until all damages are paid in full.

In severe cases, these financial obligations can follow you for years, making it essential to understand your legal options immediately after receiving a citation or being involved in a crash.

Defending Your No-Insurance Citation

There are situations where you may be able to challenge a no-insurance ticket. Possible defenses include:

• Proof of Coverage at the Time: If you had valid insurance but couldn’t present proof when stopped, providing documentation to the court may result in dismissal.
• Errors in the Citation: Inaccurate information on the ticket could lead to a reduction or dismissal.
• Clerical or Database Errors: Sometimes, law enforcement databases fail to reflect current insurance policies.
• Recent Policy Activation: If you obtained insurance shortly before the stop, but it wasn’t yet in the system, you may be able to show coverage was in effect.

Working with an experienced legal team can help you gather and present the proper evidence to the court.

How Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn Can Help

We know that when you’re facing the question of how much is a ticket for no insurance in Texas, it’s not just about the dollar amount—it’s about the disruption that can ripple through every part of your life.

Between potential fines, surcharges, and the stress of keeping your license, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Our team has decades of combined experience representing drivers across Texas, and we take a hands-on approach to every case.

Here’s how we can help:

• Thorough Case Review and Defense Strategy: We take the time to review every detail, from the traffic stop itself to the accuracy of the citation, to determine whether errors, proof-of-coverage issues, or procedural violations could lead to a dismissal or reduction.
• Negotiating for Reduced Penalties: Our familiarity with local courts and prosecutors allows us to seek outcomes that minimize fines, avoid license suspension, and reduce long-term costs, including surcharges.
• Guidance with SR-22 and Reinstatement: If an SR-22 filing is required, we walk you through the process, coordinate with your insurance provider, and ensure you meet all Texas Department of Public Safety requirements for reinstatement.
• Preventing Repeat Violations: We offer practical, tailored advice to help you maintain compliance with Texas insurance laws, so you can avoid future tickets and protect your driving record.
• Support Beyond the Ticket: If your no-insurance citation is connected to an accident or another traffic-related charge, we can represent your interests in related legal matters to safeguard your financial and legal standing.

At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, our goal is simple: protect your driving privileges, limit the financial fallout, and give you the confidence to move forward without unnecessary setbacks.

FAQs

Will I Go To Jail For No-Insurance?

In most cases, a no-insurance ticket in Texas is a fine-only misdemeanor. However, if combined with other serious traffic offenses, such as driving while intoxicated, jail time may be possible.

Can I Get Insurance Before Sr-22?

Yes. In fact, you must have an active auto insurance policy before your insurance company can file an SR-22 on your behalf.

How Long Do I Need Sr-22 In Texas?

Most drivers must maintain an SR-22 for two years after a no-insurance conviction, but the court may set a different period depending on your record.

Can The Citation Affect My Job Or Rental Applications?

While a no-insurance ticket is not typically part of a criminal background check, it can appear on your driving record, which some employers and landlords may review.

Need Help Fighting a No-Insurance Ticket? Contact Us Today

Facing a citation and wondering how much is a ticket for no insurance in Texas can be overwhelming. The true cost often extends beyond the fine, affecting your license and finances. Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn can guide you through the process. Reach out to us at 817-920-9000 for a free, no-obligation consultation.