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Is a seatbelt ticket a moving violation in Texas?
I took my kids to the Houston Space Center a few days ago, and I guess I had a sugar buzz from the freeze-dried ice cream because I forgot to buckle my seatbelt when we left. Of course, I drove right past an officer, and she pulled me over. She ended up just giving me a warning—it turns out she’s an astronomy buff, too—but I’ve been thinking about it ever since. If I’d gotten a ticket for not wearing my seatbelt, would that have been considered a moving violation?
Amy Bobinger · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
That sounds like a great day with your family, and we’re so glad you didn’t get a ticket to spoil the fun!
Luckily, even if you did receive a citation, a seat belt ticket is not a
moving violation
in Texas
. Still, wearing one is important—hopefully, the freeze-dried ice cream distraction was a one-time thing.Seat belt violations are considered primary offenses in Texas. That means an officer can pull you over for not wearing one, even if you aren’t doing anything wrong.
Fines and fees: Even if a seatbelt ticket isn’t considered a moving violation in Texas, the citation could still come with some pretty serious fines—$150 for each adult who’s not wearing one. As the driver, you could also be fined $125 for any children under 17 not properly restrained in a seat belt or
car seat
—and that’s just for the first offense. That fee goes up to $225 if you’re cited for the same thing a second time.Next time, remember to buckle up and drive safely!
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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