If You Get a Ticket in Texas

Please note that your state and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly update these CDL requirements. Please visit the Texas Department of Safety website and the FMCSA website for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding CDL requirements and processes.

Fines for traffic violations in Texas vary by county. In some cases, you may be charged additional surcharges, depending on the type of conviction and the number of points on your record. The county court for the county in which you were ticketed will be able to provide you with specific information on the fines and penalties.

You have 20 days to decide if you want to pay the ticket or request a hearing. Additionally, commercial drivers who are convicted of a violation must notify their employer within 30 days, whether the ticket was issued in their personal or commercial vehicle.

Serious offenses may result in the suspension of your CDL. The length of time your license will be suspended depends on the offense. The following is a general guideline:

• Alcohol-related offenses: Includes operating a commercial vehicle with a BAC of 0.04% or higher, driving under the influence (DUI), or refusing to take a required alcohol or drug test.
• Leaving the scene of an accident: Failing to remain at or report an accident involving a commercial vehicle can result in immediate disqualification.
• Being involved in a felony: Using a commercial vehicle in the commission of any felony, even if not related to driving, results in a mandatory suspension of at least one year.

Drivers whose vehicles contain hazardous materials will be subjected to suspension of at least 3 years (for a first offense) for the above offenses. All drivers who have alcohol-related charges may also face criminal charges.

• Two serious traffic offenses within three years: Results in a 60-day suspension of your CDL.
• Three serious traffic offenses within three years: Results in a 120-day suspension of your CDL.
• Using a commercial vehicle in the commission of a felony leads to a lifetime suspension of your CDL.

All drivers should be aware that their license can be suspended for traffic offenses committed in either personal or non-commercial vehicles.

Remember, the most important thing to remember when you receive a ticket is that you should never just pay the ticket or the court fees without first talking to a legal representative who understands trucking laws. While you want to maintain a clean driving record, unforeseen violations can happen. When they do, you need expert legal protection. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation's Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, is ready to defend your rights and your career.