Does Getting a Speeding Ticket Raise Your Car Insurance Premium?


If you have a speeding ticket on your driving record, you'll pay $430 — or 49% — more annually for full coverage car insurance than a driver with a clean record.

After a speeding ticket, you can reduce auto insurance rates by taking defensive driving courses, shopping for quotes and bundling policies. A ticket typically stays on your record for 3–5 years, impacting your insurance rates during that time. Over time, the effect of a ticket diminishes, especially if you maintain a clean driving record.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
  • State Farm offers the best and most affordable insurance for drivers with speeding tickets, closely followed by Travelers.
  • Despite getting a ticket, drivers can lower rates through defensive driving courses, shopping around and leveraging discounts like State Farm's Drive Safe & Save program.
  • A speeding ticket typically affects rates for three to five years, but defensive driving courses in some states can dismiss the ticket, lowering its impact on insurance.

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How Much a Speeding Ticket Raises Insurance

At your policy renewal, your insurer might increase your full coverage rate by up to 49% annually if you've received a speeding ticket. However, insurers vary in how they rate traffic violations. After receiving a speeding ticket, you may notice a hike in your insurance premiums. Insurers often reassess your driving record at policy renewal time, and a new ticket could lead to higher rates. However, some companies are more forgiving than others:

  • Allstate charges 18% more on average.
  • State Farm might increase your rate by 19%.
  • Progressive can charge up to 29% more for a speeding ticket.
  • Travelers often raises premiums by 30% after a first-time speeding violation.

Speeding tickets can bump up your insurance rates, but the increase varies by provider. It's worth shopping around to find the best rates and checking if a defensive driving course can clear the ticket from your record. The table below shows the difference in rates for various providers after a ticket by age and coverage level.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
Coverage:
Coverage:Full Coverage
State Farm$883$1,00814%
Nationwide$930$1,16625%
GEICO$936$1,22631%
Allstate$1,124$1,31817%
Travelers$1,037$1,41236%
Progressive$1,120$1,45830%
Farmers$1,192$1,50026%
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DO SPEEDING TICKETS AFFECT INSURANCE?

Yes, a first-time speeding violation can affect insurance rates. While the impact varies based on the insurance company, the severity of the speeding violation and state regulations, many insurers view any speeding ticket as an indication of riskier driving behavior. Even if it's your first offense, you might see an increase in your insurance premiums.

However, some insurers offer forgiveness programs for first-time offenses, so you should always check with your provider about potential rate changes.

How Speeding Tickets Affect Car Insurance by State

The state you live in plays a big role in determining how much more you'll pay for car insurance after a speeding violation:

  • In Idaho, expect to pay about 16% more on average.
  • In Louisiana, a speeding ticket can lead to a 35% increase in rates.

Use the table below to find the average increase in rates following a ticket in your state.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:Full Coverage
Alabama$852$1,07421%
Alaska$849$1,04419%
Arizona$1,078$1,43125%
Arkansas$932$1,23224%
California$1,343$1,94431%
Colorado$985$1,31325%
Connecticut$1,305$1,61319%
Delaware$1,640$2,01219%
District of Columbia$1,188$1,37914%
Florida$1,628$2,08322%
Georgia$915$1,18423%
Hawaii$797$97919%
Idaho$651$77916%
Illinois$922$1,13319%
Indiana$722$97026%
Iowa$791$98620%
Kansas$1,035$1,31521%
Kentucky$1,005$1,20817%
Louisiana$1,493$2,31235%
Maine$714$88219%
Maryland$1,128$1,40620%
Massachusetts$1,039$1,32722%
Michigan$1,773$2,47528%
Minnesota$1,056$1,30619%
Mississippi$917$1,18322%
Missouri$1,297$1,64521%
Montana$934$1,11416%
Nebraska$972$1,25022%
Nevada$1,534$2,01124%
New Hampshire$950$1,33029%
New Jersey$1,492$1,6479%
New Mexico$949$1,16819%
New York$2,043$2,37314%
North Carolina$873$1,32634%
North Dakota$773$89914%
Ohio$742$96923%
Oklahoma$928$1,15720%
Oregon$1,107$1,40421%
Pennsylvania$1,014$1,25919%
Rhode Island$1,091$1,49727%
South Carolina$1,303$1,90732%
South Dakota$950$1,12916%
Tennessee$846$1,03919%
Texas$1,183$1,43718%
Utah$951$1,19821%
Vermont$664$82820%
Virginia$942$1,30828%
Washington$1,049$1,35823%
West Virginia$1,024$1,23217%
Wisconsin$907$1,20325%
Wyoming$854$1,19529%

Drivers in certain states or areas often pay more for auto insurance due to factors like heavy traffic or higher crime rates. So, even without a speeding ticket, where you live can significantly impact what you pay.

For example, in New Jersey, on average, drivers with clean records pay 71% more for insurance than drivers in North Carolina. However, after getting a speeding ticket, the rate increase in New Jersey might be just 9%. In contrast, North Carolina drivers could see their rates jump by 34% after a ticket. This means a North Carolina driver with a ticket might pay only a hundred dollars less than a clean-record driver in New Jersey.

When Insurance Increases After a Speeding Ticket

If you've received a speeding ticket, it's important to be prepared for a potential increase in your auto insurance premiums. Insurance companies routinely evaluate your driving record, especially when it's time to renew your policy. A new speeding ticket is a red flag that could lead to higher rates, as it indicates a higher risk from the insurer's perspective.

While the impact on your premiums can vary depending on your provider and driving history, it's a good opportunity to explore other insurance options. Comparing quotes from different providers could help you find a more budget-friendly policy that still meets your coverage needs.

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DO OUT-OF-STATE TICKETS AFFECT INSURANCE?

Out-of-state tickets do affect insurance rates. States share ticket information, so when you receive a ticket elsewhere, your home state is notified and adds it to your driving record. Insurance companies review these records, and any new violation can lead to higher rates, regardless of where they occur.

Best Car Insurance Companies After Speeding Ticket

MoneyGeek found that the best car insurance companies for drivers with a speeding ticket are:

  • State Farm with a MoneyGeek Score of 89 out of 100 and an Annual Premium of $1,088
  • Travelers with a MoneyGeek Score of 88 out of 100 and an Annual Premium of $1,412

After a speeding ticket, obtaining the best car insurance is crucial to manage increased rates and ensure adequate coverage. A quality provider will offer fair pricing, good customer support, and potentially forgive the first offense, protecting your driving record and wallet.

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MoneyGeek Top Pick
State Farm
  • MG Best Score: 89 out of 100

State Farm is a top pick for drivers, even those with tickets. Despite a mark on your record, you can still join the Drive Safe & Save program, potentially earning up to a 30% discount based on your driving habits and mileage. Plus, State Farm makes switching easy: get an online quote and start your coverage the same day.

It stands out for drivers with speeding tickets due to its forgiving policies. Unlike many insurers, State Farm doesn't drastically hike premiums after a single violation, ensuring more affordable coverage. Its commitment to reasonable rates helps maintain budget-friendly insurance, even with a less-than-perfect driving record.

mglogo
MoneyGeek Top Pick
Travelers
  • MG Best Score: 88 out of 100

Travelers excels for drivers with speeding tickets through its Intellidrive program, which tracks driving behavior for 90 days, potentially reducing rates for safe driving. This feature, coupled with the company's accident forgiveness option, ensures that one speeding ticket won't significantly impact your premiums, offering a blend of flexibility and security.

Even with a speeding ticket, Travelers offers competitive rates. Drivers can access various discounts like multi-policy and safe driving. Travelers lets you customize coverage to balance protection and cost. Its standout customer service helps drivers navigate insurance changes post-ticket.

The table offers a detailed look at auto insurance options for drivers with a speeding ticket from national providers. It includes annual and monthly premiums, along with our unique MG Total Best 100 score. To find the most relevant information for you, use the drop-down menus above the table to select your age range and coverage options.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Age Range:
Age Range:30-59
Coverage:
Coverage:100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.
State Farm89$1,008$84
Travelers88$1,412$118
GEICO88$1,226$102
Nationwide87$1,166$97
Progressive86$1,458$122
Allstate86$1,318$110
Farmers86$1,500$125

Cheapest Car Insurance Companies After Speeding Ticket

The cheapest car insurance companies for drivers with speeding tickets are:

  • State Farm: $1,008 per year, $84 per month
  • Nationwide: $1,166 per year, $97 per month

The above rates are for full coverage.

mglogo
MoneyGeek Top Pick
State Farm

Average Annual Rate After a Speeding Ticket: $1,008

State Farm offers not only the best coverage but also some of the most affordable rates in the industry. If you're considering a switch, State Farm makes the transition smooth. You can secure same-day insurance and have your policy activated right away, ensuring continuous coverage without any gaps.

Find the cheapest providers based on your age and desired coverage level in the table below:

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
Coverage:
Coverage:100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.
State Farm$1,008$84
Nationwide$1,166$97
GEICO$1,226$102
Allstate$1,318$110
Travelers$1,412$118
Progressive$1,458$122
Farmers$1,500$125

How Long a Speeding Ticket Affects Insurance

A speeding ticket will typically affect your insurance rates for 3 to 5 years. However, the exact duration varies based on:

  • The insurance company's policies
  • The severity of the speeding violation
  • The state you reside in

In places like California, a speeding ticket might linger on your record for up to seven years.

Defensive driving courses can refresh your skills and offer benefits like car insurance discounts. Such a course can even dismiss your speeding ticket in states like Texas. Once the ticket is off your record, it won't affect your insurance rates.

Impact of Zero-Point Ticket on Car Insurance

A zero-point ticket goes on your driving record, even if it doesn't add points. Insurance companies see tickets as signs of risk.

While a zero-point ticket is generally considered less severe than a ticket with points, some insurance companies might still increase your rates based on the violation. The impact on your premium largely depends on the insurance company's policies and the nature of the violation. Some insurers might ignore small violations if drivers have a previously clean record.

Some states have regulations that limit when and how insurance companies can raise rates based on traffic violations. In many states, the severity of the speeding violation — meaning how much over the speed limit you were driving — can determine the number of points added to your driving record. Minor speeding infractions might result in zero points in some jurisdictions, while more severe violations could result in multiple points.

How to Lower Insurance After a Speeding Ticket

After getting a speeding ticket, you may be able to immediately lower your insurance rates by taking a defensive driving course, comparing quotes from different insurers and bundling your home and auto policies. Additionally, considering a higher deductible and asking about various discounts can lead to further savings.

    car2 icon

    Take a defensive driving course

    Enrolling in a state-approved course can lead to discounts. Some states might even dismiss your ticket after completion.

    carInsurance icon

    Shop around

    Different insurance companies evaluate speeding tickets in their own way. Before your policy is up for renewal, compare quotes to find the most favorable rate.

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    Increase your deductible

    Choosing a higher deductible can reduce your premium, but ensure you can afford it in case of a claim.

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    Drive safely

    Over time, the impact of a ticket on your rates decreases. Maintaining a clean record helps reduce rates further.

    money icon

    Ask about discounts

    While a speeding ticket might make you ineligible for certain discounts like safe driver or defensive driving, you can still explore others like multi-car, loyalty or bundling discounts.

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    Reassess your coverage

    If you have an older car, think about whether you need comprehensive and collision coverage. Switching to a liability-only policy can save money.

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    Boost your credit score

    Many insurers consider credit scores when setting rates in states where it's permitted. A better score can lead to savings.

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    Drive less

    If you drive fewer miles, you might qualify for low-mileage discounts.

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    Stay updated

    Insurance regulations and discounts evolve. Regularly review your policy and stay informed about industry changes to ensure you're getting the best deal.

Frequently Asked Questions

MoneyGeek addresses the most common concerns about car insurance after a speeding ticket.

How long does a speeding ticket affect my insurance rates?

Are there ways to avoid a rate increase after getting a speeding ticket?

Does the severity of the speeding violation matter for my insurance rates?

If I switch insurance companies after getting a ticket, will the new insurer know about it?

About Mark Fitzpatrick


Mark Fitzpatrick headshot

Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.