Anderson Injury Lawyers | September 1, 2025 | Texas Law
Getting pulled over without valid auto insurance in Texas can lead to steep fines and serious consequences. Many drivers ask the same question: how much is a no-insurance ticket in Texas? The answer varies depending on how many times you’ve been caught and whether you’ve caused an accident, but even a first offense can hit your wallet hard.
Texas traffic law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance. If you’re caught driving without it, the penalties can include fines, fees, vehicle impoundment, and even license suspension. Understanding what’s at stake can help you avoid long-term financial and legal trouble.
Texas Insurance Requirements for Drivers
Under Texas Transportation Code Chapter 601, all drivers must show proof of financial responsibility. The most common way to meet this requirement is by carrying liability insurance that meets the state’s minimum limits:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
This is often referred to as 30/60/25 coverage. If you don’t carry at least this amount, you’re considered uninsured under Texas law.
First Offense Penalties
If you’re pulled over and cannot provide proof of insurance, you’ll likely be issued a citation for driving without coverage. A first-time offense can lead to:
- A fine between $175 and $350
- Court costs and administrative fees
- A possible surcharge of $250 per year for three years (under the now-repealed Driver Responsibility Program, some fees may still be assessed under local rules)
- Possible impoundment of your vehicle
- Difficulty renewing your vehicle registration or driver’s license
You’ll also have to show proof of insurance to resolve the ticket. In some cases, you may be able to get the fine reduced if you obtain coverage and bring proof to court.
Repeat Offense Penalties
Repeat offenses result in higher fines and additional penalties. For a second or third offense, you could face:
- Fines between $350 and $1,000
- Higher court costs and administrative fees
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- Mandatory SR-22 insurance filing
- Vehicle impoundment (with additional towing and storage fees)
SR-22 insurance is a certificate of financial responsibility required for high-risk drivers. It typically results in higher insurance premiums and must be maintained for two years.
Penalties if You Cause an Accident Without Insurance
If you’re involved in an accident while driving uninsured, the consequences are even more serious. You could be held personally responsible for all damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Additional consequences include:
- License and registration suspension
- Requirement to pay out of pocket for damages
- Lawsuits filed against you for injury or property claims
- Potential criminal charges in cases involving serious injury or death
You may also be barred from registering another vehicle or renewing your license until restitution is paid and insurance is obtained.
How To Get Back on the Road
If you’ve received a no-insurance ticket in Texas, there are steps you can take to minimize the damage:
- Obtain valid auto insurance that meets the 30/60/25 requirement
- Bring proof of coverage to court as soon as possible
- Consider contacting a traffic attorney if your license is at risk
- Comply with any SR-22 requirements if ordered
- Pay all fines, fees, and surcharges to avoid license suspension
You can verify minimum coverage options and consumer rights through the Texas Department of Insurance.
Dealing With a No-Insurance Ticket in Texas
A no-insurance ticket in Texas can cost anywhere from $175 to $1,000, plus court fees and potential license penalties. Repeat offenses, accidents, or failure to meet legal requirements can add thousands more in surcharges and long-term costs.
If you’re facing a no-insurance citation, getting insured immediately and understanding your legal options can help protect your driving record and finances. To learn more, contact Anderson Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Texas personal injury lawyer.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth or Dallas and need legal help, contact our personal injury lawyers at Anderson Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve Tarrant County, Dallas County, and throughout Texas.
Anderson Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office
1310 W El Paso St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 294-1900
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6618 Fossil Bluff Dr # 108, Fort Worth, TX 76137
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Anderson Injury Lawyers – Dallas Office
408 W Eighth St Suite 202, Dallas, TX 75208
(214) 327-8000
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811 Nueces Street, Austin TX, 78701
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