DMVZoneBlogTexas ended the Driver Responsibility Program in 2019, so points no longer bring surcharge bills. But four moving violations in 12 months, or seven in 24, can still cost you your license.
Texas no longer bills drivers for points; the Driver Responsibility Program ended September 1, 2019. What still matters is the count of convictions: 4 moving violations from separate incidents in 12 months, or 7 in 24 months, makes you a habitual violator, and DPS can suspend your license.
Older articles still tell Texas drivers to watch their points. That advice is out of date. Since 2019 the state has counted convictions, not points, when deciding whether to suspend a license for repeated tickets.
| Situation | What happens |
|---|---|
| 4 moving violations in 12 months, or 7 in 24 | Suspension: 90 days if you do not request a hearing, up to 1 year after a hearing |
| Provisional license holder with 2 moving violations in 12 months | Suspension, same 90-day or up-to-1-year rule |
| Violating a license restriction twice | Suspension |
| DWI conviction | Suspension plus the fines below |
Getting a ticket dismissed through a driving safety course keeps it off your conviction count. That is the main reason Texas drivers take the course.
How many moving violations within 12 months make a Texas driver a habitual violator?
Answer: C. Four convictions from separate incidents in 12 months, or seven in 24 months.
When did Texas end the Driver Responsibility Program surcharges?
Answer: C. HB 2048 repealed the program effective September 1, 2019.
What is the fine for a first Texas DWI conviction under the post-2019 law?
Answer: C. A first conviction within three years carries a $3,000 fine, or $6,000 at 0.15 or higher.
Your driving record still lists convictions, and insurers use it. The state no longer charges surcharges based on points.
You can request an administrative hearing. Without one, the suspension is 90 days.
Out-of-state actions can be placed on your Texas record, but DPS says they do not affect your Texas driving eligibility.
Checked against these pages on November 12, 2026. Laws change, so open the source before you rely on a number.
Rules and fees change. Always confirm the details with the official Texas DMV or motor vehicle agency before you act. DMVZone practice questions are written to teach the rules and are not copies of the real test.
Pay it, ask for deferred disposition, take a driving safety course, or plead not guilty. How each choice affects your fine, your record and your insurance in Texas.
Texas lets most drivers dismiss one ticket a year with a state-approved driving safety course. Who qualifies, which tickets are excluded, the court fee, and the 90-day deadline.
Texas bans reading, writing or sending messages while driving. Fines start at $25 to $99, double for repeats, and a crash that hurts someone can mean jail. School zones and teens have stricter rules.