Texas Traffic Laws: Understand The Basics (2026)

Speed Limits and Safe Driving in Texas

Looking at Texas driving laws, the state has higher speed limits than many others in the country. It’s not unusual for highways to have a posted speed limit of 70 mph, and Texas State Highway 130 has a speed limit of 85 mph.

However, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reminds drivers that the maximum posted speed limit only applies in normal conditions, and drivers should slow down in rain, snow, fog, heavy traffic, and other potentially dangerous situations.

Texas Right-of-Way and Signaling Rules

In general, Texas adheres to these basic right-of-way laws:

• At uncontrolled intersections, you must yield to the driver on the right.
• You must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
• You must yield to emergency vehicles.

Even when you have the right-of-way, the top priority should be preventing car accidents. For instance, if a car runs a red light at an intersection, you shouldn’t hit it just because you have the right-of-way.

Distracted and Impaired Driving Laws

Laws for DWI in Texas are similar to those in other states, and the legal BAC limit is 0.08. Texas also bans texting and the use of handheld devices while driving.

Lane Usage and Passing Regulations

Like most other states, Texas reserves the left lane for passing on major roads.

Rules for Motorcycles, Bicycles, and Pedestrians

In Texas, motorcyclists under 21 must wear helmets. Cyclists must obey traffic laws, and pedestrians must use sidewalks or walk on the left side of the road (against traffic) where there isn’t one.

Safety Measures and School Zone Requirements

Most Texas school zones have a speed limit of 20 mph. When a school bus is flashing red lights and children are getting on or off the bus, drivers may not pass from either direction.

Texas Car Insurance Requirements

Texas is an at-fault insurance state that requires 30/60/25 coverage. That means $30,000 in bodily injury/person, $60,000 in bodily injury/accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage.

Unusual or Little-Known Texas Driving Laws

These are some of the more unique Texas traffic laws to know:

• It’s illegal to open the doors while operating a vehicle.
• You must set the parking brake when leaving your car unattended.
• It’s illegal to leave the keys in the ignition of an unattended vehicle.
• Window tint rules require at least 25% light on front side windows.
• You must display both front and rear license plates on your vehicle.

Here’s one of the strangest Texas traffic laws of all: it’s illegal to drive with an uncaged bear in the back of your car!

Looking for a Traffic Lawyer?

Have you been pulled over in Texas and gotten a traffic ticket? You might be able to contest it, but it’s a good idea to seek legal help. ConsumerShield matches people like you with qualified attorneys. Fill out our contact form to get started with a free case review!