Texas Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
A nonresident can apply for a concealed handgun license, if licensed in his/her home state, home state's licensing requirements are as rigorous as Texas, and home state allows a person with a Texas license to apply for a license.
Texas repealed its motorcycle helmet law in 1997 for cyclists 21 years of age or older. However, in order for residents or nonresidents to go helmetless, they must have proof of $10,000 in medical insurance or proof that they have taken a motorcycle safety course which meets the standards of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
On many rural highways in Texas, there is a full width paved shoulder, mainly as a breakdown lane. However, it is legal to travel on that shoulder for specific purposes. Mainly, it is used by a slow car to allow faster cars behind it to pass safely without changing into the oncoming lane. This allows cars to pass slow traffic in no-pass zones or with heavy oncoming traffic. Care must be taken not to use this lane when cresting hills because over the crest may be a parked disabled car on the shoulder.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Prima Facie
 |
|
| Urban | 30 mph |
| Rural |
(D) 60 mph
|
| FM Roads | *(D) 70 mph
(N) 65 mph |
| State highways | (D) 70 mph
(N) 65 mph |
| Four-lane highways | (D) 70 mph
(N) 65 mph |
| Interstates | **(D) 70 mph
(N) 65 mph |
** (D) 80 mph (N) 65 mph for cars where posted
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | No |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | No |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | Yes |
| Parking | Yes |
| Equipment | Yes |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500 must be reported immediately to the local authorities and other accidents require a written report within 10 days to Statistical Services, Texas Department of Public Safety, P.O. Box 4087, Austin, TX 78773.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law and financial responsibility law with security-type law.
Future proof-type law applicable in the event of an accident causing death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500.
Minimum limits: $20,000/40,000/15,000.
Uninsured motorists insurance is required.
Regulations
- The BAC level is .08%.
- Texas has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 90-day driver's license suspension.
- Studded tires (only those that will not damage the highway and made of rubber) are permitted.
- Tire chains are not required.
- Texas has a seat belt law with primary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
- Texas has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 5 years of age. Children under age 2 must use approved car safety seats.
General Information
Telephone: 512/424-2000
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 911 or 800/525-5555