Red Light and Stop Sign Tickets in Texas

Texas drivers who get a ticket for running a stop sign or stop light have a number of options for dealing with the ticket. This article gives an overview of how Texas's stop sign and red light laws work and some of the consequences of a stop sign or red light citation.

Properly Stopping at a Red Light or Stop Sign in Texas

Motorists approaching a stop sign or a signal exhibiting a red light (solid or flashing) must come to a complete stop prior to the nearest of entering the crosswalk, reaching a clearly marked stop line, or entering the intersection itself. (Tex. Transp. Code Ann. § 544.007 (2024); Tex. Transp. Code Ann. § 544.010 (2024).)

Texas's Right-On-Red Rule

As long as there's no sign specifically restricting it, Texas law permits drivers to make a right turn after stopping at a red light. However, drivers need to use caution and follow the normal right-of-way rules when making the turn.

Texas's Left-on-Red Rule

Some states don't allow left turns on red, regardless of the circumstances. However, Texas drivers are permitted to turn left after stopping at a red light at the intersection of two one-way streets. In other words, a motorist can make a left on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street.

Can You Get a Ticket for Running a Yellow Light in Texas?

In some states, it's illegal to enter an intersection if the light is yellow. In Texas, however, a solid yellow light is just a warning that the signal is about to turn red. In other words, you can enter an intersection while the light is still yellow, just not after it has turned red.

Texas Law on Red Light Cameras

Fines for Stop Sign and Red Light Violations in Texas

Stop sign and red light violation fines vary depending on the circumstances, including where you received the ticket. But generally, fines range from about $150 to $275.

Depending on the circumstances, a red light or stop sign violation could also lead to a reckless driving conviction. And a driver who runs a red signal or stop sign and causes a fatality may face vehicular homicide or manslaughter charges.