Learn About Texas' New Rules of The Road

Written by Mary Salatino

Staying on top of Texas driving laws is key to keeping yourself — and others — safe while avoiding fines. Whether you're just starting out or have been driving for years, it's always a good idea to refresh your knowledge.

In this article, we'll cover driving laws you need to know, with clear explanations to help you navigate Texas roads and stay on the right side of the law.

Basic Traffic Laws

Below are some of the key traffic rules to follow in the Lone Star State:

Speed Limits

Texas has specific speed limits depending on the type of road and area:

• Urban areas: The maximum speed limit is typically 30 mph in residential and business districts.
• Rural roads: Speed limits can range from 55 mph to 75 mph on rural highways.
• Highways: Major highways, like interstates, often have speed limits from 70 mph up to 85 mph on select toll roads.

Remember to double-check posted signs and adjust your speed according to weather and road conditions for the safest driving experience.

To reinforce these safety measures, House Bill 1885, enacted in 2023, allows motorists to temporarily adjust speed limits during hazardous conditions, such as inclement weather or road construction. This law allows motorists to immediately respond to changing driving conditions.

Seat Belt Usage

Texas law requires all passengers in a vehicle, regardless of their seating position, to wear seat belts. Drivers can be fined if any passenger is not buckled up, and passengers over 15 years old can also be fined for not wearing a seat belt.

Handheld Devices and Texting While Driving

The use of handheld devices for texting, emailing or any electronic communication while driving is prohibited in Texas. Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using any wireless communication device while driving. Exceptions are made for hands-free devices, though drivers are encouraged to minimize distractions as much as possible.

The penalty for distracted driving is a fine up to $500 for first-time offenders. This number increases for repeat violations.

Right-of-Way Rules

Understanding right-of-way rules is essential to avoid accidents:

• Intersections: At intersections with no signals, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
• Pedestrians: A pedestrian always has the right-of-way at crosswalks. Drivers must stop and allow them to cross safely.
• Emergency vehicles: Yield to emergency vehicles with flashing lights and sirens, pulling over to the right and stopping until they pass.

School Zones and Buses

School zones require extra caution to keep children safe. Here's a quick breakdown of the state's school zone speed limits and bus stop rules:

Speed Limits in School Zones

School zones have reduced speed limits to ensure the safety of children and other pedestrians. These limits typically range from 15 to 30 mph and are strictly enforced during school hours or when kids are present.

Flashing lights or posted signs usually indicate when the school zone is active, and failure to slow down can result in fines up to $200, especially in areas with crossing guards or near school entrances.

Rules for Stopping for School Buses

Drivers must stop for school buses that are loading or unloading children when the bus's red flashing lights are on and the stop sign arm is extended. Yellow flashing lights signal that the bus is about to make a full stop.

This stopping rule applies to drivers in both directions unless the road is divided by a median or other physical barrier. In that case, only drivers traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop. Failing to stop for a school bus can result in fines of up to $1,250 for a first offense, with more severe penalties, such as jail time, for repeat violations.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Laws

Driving under the influence (DUI) is not only dangerous but also illegal. Knowing the regulations — like Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limits and the penalties for violations — can help you avoid life-threatening accidents and legal trouble.

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Limits

It is illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08% or higher for drivers 21 and over. For drivers under 21, there is a zero-tolerance policy, meaning any detectable amount of alcohol in their system can result in penalties. Commercial drivers have a stricter limit of 0.04%.

Penalties for DUI

The penalties for DUI in Texas are severe and increase with each offense:

• First offense: Up to a $2,000 fine, three to 180 days in jail and up to a one-year loss of driving privileges.
• Second offense: Up to a $4,000 fine, 30 days to one year in jail and a license suspension for up to two years.
• Third offense: A $10,000 fine, two to 10 years in prison and up to a two-year license suspension.

During sentencing, the judge will add a state fine of $3,000, $4,500 or $6,000 to the fine associated with the offense.

As of 2023, under House Bill 393 (Bentley's Law), individuals convicted of intoxication manslaughter must make restitution payments to support the children of victims who lost a parent or guardian due to drunk driving.

Implied Consent Law

Texas's implied consent law means that by operating a motor vehicle on a Texas roadway, you automatically consent to submitting a chemical test (such as a breathalyzer) if law enforcement suspects you of driving under the influence.

Refusing a test results in an automatic license suspension for 180 days, and refusal can be used as evidence in court.

We Can Help

Want to stay safe and informed about driving laws? Our Texas Defensive Driving Course can help you avoid violations, dismiss tickets and even lower your insurance rates. Complete this state-approved online course at your own pace, from any device with internet access.

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This article was written by SafeMotorist.com defensive driving staff writers and reviewed for accuracy by defensive driving instructors. All articles are based on current traffic laws and defensive driving practices. This article is intended for educational purposes only, and should not be taken as legal advice or literal interpretation of any specific traffic law.