Master Texas' Road Rules
Your complete guide to Texas driving laws, traffic violations, and penalties - from speed limits to DWI consequences.
Updated for 2026 · Instant PDF download
Speed Limits in Texas
Texas has some of the highest speed limits in the country, with select highways allowing up to 85 mph.
Residential Areas
30 mph in residential zones unless otherwise posted.
Highways
Most highways: 70 mph daytime. SH 130 toll road: 85 mph - highest in the US.
Nighttime Limits
65 mph nighttime limit on most highways. Some rural roads drop to 60 mph.
School Zones
20 mph in school zones when flashing lights are active.
DWI Laws & Penalties
Texas uses the term DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and enforces severe penalties including mandatory jail time for repeat offenses.
BAC Limits
0.08% for adults, 0.04% for commercial drivers. Any detectable amount for under 21.
First Offense
3–180 days in jail, up to $2,000 fine, 90-day to 1-year license suspension.
Open Container Law
Open alcohol containers are illegal in the passenger area of any vehicle. Violation: up to $500 fine.
ALR Suspension
Administrative License Revocation: refuse a breathalyzer and face automatic 180-day suspension.
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Insurance & Accident Reporting
Texas requires specific minimum insurance coverage and has strict accident reporting rules - failing to comply can result in license suspension, fines, and criminal charges.
Minimum Coverage
Texas requires 30/60/25 liability coverage: $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
Proof of Insurance
You must carry proof of insurance at all times. Driving without insurance is a Class C misdemeanor: $175-$350 fine for first offense.
Crash Report Required
You must file a CR-2 crash report with TxDOT within 10 days if the accident caused injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
51% Fault Bar
Texas follows modified comparative negligence - if you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages from the other party.
Hit and Run
Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury is a felony in Texas, carrying up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
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Driving Laws Guide Bundle
Texas Driving Laws: The 2026 Guide
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- 2026 laws & penalties
- DWI penalty breakdown
- Point system explained
- Insurance minimums guide
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Did you know?
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 uses a 51% fault threshold.
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.
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"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."
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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
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Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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