Your complete guide to Texas driving laws, traffic violations, and penalties — from speed limits to DWI consequences.
Trusted by +35,000 Texas drivers
Texas has some of the highest speed limits in the country, with select highways allowing up to 85 mph.
30 mph in residential zones unless otherwise posted.
Most highways: 70 mph daytime. SH 130 toll road: 85 mph — highest in the US.
65 mph nighttime limit on most highways. Some rural roads drop to 60 mph.
20 mph in school zones when flashing lights are active.
Texas uses the term DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and enforces severe penalties including mandatory jail time for repeat offenses.
0.08% for adults, 0.04% for commercial drivers. Any detectable amount for under 21.
3–180 days in jail, up to $2,000 fine, 90-day to 1-year license suspension.
Open alcohol containers are illegal in the passenger area of any vehicle. Violation: up to $500 fine.
Administrative License Revocation: refuse a breathalyzer and face automatic 180-day suspension.
Unlock Full Guide
Purchase to access all chapters
Texas bans texting while driving statewide. Some cities have stricter local ordinances banning all handheld use.
Texting while driving is illegal. First offense: $25–$99. Subsequent: up to $200.
Drivers under 18 cannot use any wireless device, including hands-free, for first 12 months.
Cities like Austin, San Antonio, and El Paso ban all handheld phone use while driving.
All phone use is banned in active school zones statewide.
Best Value
Did you know?
Texas has the highest posted speed limit in the United States at 85 mph on State Highway 130, a toll road between Austin and San Antonio.
Featured — State spotlight
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you're found to be 51% or more at fault in an accident, you cannot recover any damages. Understanding Texas fault determination is essential for every driver.
What drivers are saying
Join thousands of Texas drivers who drive with confidence
"Texas highways can be intimidating with the high speed limits. This guide helped me understand the specific rules for each road type. Passed my license renewal test easily."
Robert K.
Houston, TX
"I had no idea about the Texas move-over law until I read this guide. The callout boxes highlighting important warnings are incredibly helpful."
Lisa W.
Dallas, TX
"Moving from Mexico, I needed to understand Texas driving laws quickly. This guide was clear, organized, and covered everything from licensing to insurance requirements."
Carlos R.
San Antonio, TX
Support
Everything you need to know about our Texas driving laws guide
Yes! Our Texas Driving Laws Guide reflects all 2026 changes, including updated speed regulations on Texas highways, new distracted driving penalties, and revised commercial vehicle rules.
The guide is delivered as a professionally designed PDF that you can read on any device — phone, tablet, or computer. You can also print it for offline reference.
Absolutely. We offer a full refund within 30 days of purchase, no questions asked. We're confident you'll find the guide valuable.
Texas has some of the highest speed limits in the nation (up to 85 mph), unique right-of-way rules at unmarked intersections, and specific regulations for large vehicles. Our guide covers all of these Texas-specific nuances.
Yes. When we publish updates to reflect new Texas driving laws, you'll receive the updated guide at no extra charge via email.
For a limited time, get all 5 state guides at a reduced price.
