Getting pulled over for speeding is stressful enough, but receiving a speeding ticket in another state can feel even more complicated. You may wonder if you need to pay the fine immediately and if it will affect your driving record or insurance rates. While the rules surrounding out-of-state speeding tickets vary depending on where the ticket was issued and the state you reside in, there are standard legal processes and consequences you should be aware of.
Most drivers assume that a speeding ticket in another state is a one-off issue. However, the reality is that these violations can follow you across state lines. In this article, we’ll address what happens if you get an out-of-state speeding ticket, including how it may affect your driving privileges and auto insurance rates and whether you need to take specific actions to address it.
What are traffic ticket reciprocity states?
Traffic ticket reciprocity states have agreements to share traffic violation information across state lines. These agreements, often called the Driver’s License Compact (DLC) or the Non-Resident Violator Compact (NRVC), ensure that traffic tickets, including speeding violations, are reported back to your home state. Receiving a traffic ticket in a reciprocity state could impact your driving record and result in penalties at home.
The DLC is an agreement between 45 states and the District of Columbia. It reports traffic violations from one state to your home state. As a result, your home state adds points to your license, and the violations can impact your insurance rates, even if the issuer is out of state. The NRVC, which includes 15 states, ensures out-of-state drivers pay fines for non-moving violations, such as parking tickets or failing to appear in court. If you fail to address the ticket, your home state may suspend your license until you resolve the matter.
How to Pay an Out-of-State Speeding Ticket
Paying an out-of-state speeding ticket is generally straightforward, but you must follow specific steps to handle the situation correctly:
Review the Ticket: Carefully examine the ticket to ensure accurate information. Check the officer's notes, your vehicle details, and the violation. If you believe you received the ticket in error, you may contest it, though this often requires attending court or submitting a written statement.
Choose Your Payment Method: Most tickets can be paid online via the court or ticket issuer’s website. Alternatively, you may pay by mail using a check or money order. Some jurisdictions also offer payment by phone.
Meet the Deadline: Pay the ticket by the specified due date to avoid additional penalties, such as late fees or an arrest warrant. Failing to pay on time could result in a suspended license.
Keep Proof of Payment: Keep a receipt or confirmation number for your records. This proof can be invaluable if there are issues with the payment's processing.
Can you challenge an out-of-state speeding ticket?
You can challenge an out-of-state speeding ticket, but the process may be more complicated than contesting one in your home state. If you believe the officer issued the ticket in error or that you weren’t speeding, you have the right to dispute it. Here’s how:
Understand the Laws in the Issuing State: Research the procedures for contesting a speeding ticket in the state where it was issued. Some states allow disputes by mail or online, while others may require you to appear in court.
Decide Whether to Travel: If you must appear in court, you may need to travel to the issuing state. Sometimes, you can appoint an attorney if you cannot attend in person.
Present Evidence: Gather evidence to support your case, such as GPS records, dashcam footage, or witness testimony. Ensure the evidence complies with the issuing state’s rules and that you present it appropriately.
Ensure Your Vehicle Is Covered With SelectQuote
Dealing with an out-of-state speeding ticket can be stressful, but addressing it quickly and correctly is crucial to prevent extra penalties. While the ticket can’t be erased, understanding how to pay or contest it can help protect your driving record and avoid future complications.
It’s also essential to have the right auto insurance, especially if you frequently drive across state lines. At SelectQuote, our licensed agents offer unbiased, side-by-side comparisons of rates from several of the nation’s most highly trusted carriers. We’ll help you find the coverage that’s right for you, ensuring you’re protected from future issues, including out-of-state tickets.
