Texas Driving Laws
Updated: August, 2024
Summary of common traffic laws in Texas – Speed limits, License Renewals, Learners Permits, Drunk Driving Laws, and more. For more information, visit the Texas Traffic Safety Section website.
Speed Limits
In Texas, the maximum speed limit for cars is 85 mph. The maximum highway speed for trucks is also 85 mph. Speed limits vary by state and, in some cases, county-by-county. Always observe posted traffic laws and drive safely for the weather and road conditions.
Learners Permits
Texas allows new drivers to get their learners permit at the age of 15. You must have your provisional license for a minimum of 6 months. Drivers can then get their intermediate license at 16. An Intermediate License allows you to drive yourself without a qualified co-pilot in the car. However, driving restrictions still apply including the time-of-day you can drive and the maximum number of passengers allowed.
In Texas, drivers can obtain their full drivers license at the age of 18.
License Renewal
Texas requires you to renew your license every 6 years. There are additional provisions for older drivers:
View all Drivers License Renewal Info
Work Zones
The state of Texas enforces increased penalties for all moving vehicle violations violations within work zones. These increased penalties are known as Work Zone Enhancements. Workers must be present and there must be signs idicating road work is in progress in order for Work Zone Enhancements to be enforced. In Texas, Work Zone Enhacements are:
Drunk Driving Laws
The legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is 0.08%. Most states impose increased mandatory penalties for driving above a specific BAC. In Texas, driving with a BAC above 0.15% will trigger automatic enhanced minimum penalties.
Texting while Driving
Texting while driving is illegal in most but not all states. In Texas, hand-held devices such as phones and mp3 player are banned to novice drivers only. Handheld devices bans prohibit talking on the phone without a hands-free system.
Texting while driving is not banned in Texas. In Texas, distracted driving is listed as a category on police crash report forms.
Seat Belt Laws
Texas requires seabelt use. Seatbelt enforcement is concidered primary, meaning you can be pulled over for not wearing a seatbelt. The fine for a seatbelt law violation in Texas is $200.00. Seatbelt laws very by state. Many states require passengers to wear seatbelts as well.
Data Source
Texas Traffic Safety Section
Data Source
United States Department of Transportation
