Getting a speeding ticket in another state can be confusing, especially if you’re unsure how it affects your driving record. When you obtain a driver’s license in the U.S., you can drive anywhere in the country, but you must follow local traffic laws. If you’re caught speeding in another state, you are responsible for resolving the ticket, even if your vehicle is registered elsewhere.
This guide explains what happens when you receive an out-of-state speeding ticket, how different states handle violations, and what steps you should take to resolve the issue.
Will Your Home State Find Out About Your Out-of-State Ticket?
Most likely, yes. Thanks to the Driver’s License Compact (DLC), nearly every U.S. state shares traffic violation information with the driver’s home state. This means if you get a ticket in one state, your home state will usually be notified and may add the violation to your driving record.
States That Do Not Participate in the DLC:
According to Ballotpedia, the following five states do not participate in the DLC:
- Georgia
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Tennessee
- Wisconsin
If you receive a ticket in one of these states, your home state may not automatically receive the violation report. However, this does not mean you can ignore the ticket—you are still required to pay it.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay an Out-of-State Ticket?
Failing to pay an out-of-state speeding ticket can lead to serious consequences, including license suspension. Most states follow the Nonresident Violator Compact (NVC), which ensures that if you don’t pay a ticket, your home state will be notified and may suspend your license.
States That Do Not Participate in the NVC:
The following states do not participate in the NVC:
- Alaska
- California
- Michigan
- Montana
- Oregon
- Wisconsin
- Virginia
Even if a state isn’t a member of the DLC or NVC, it may still communicate with other states about traffic violations. This means ignoring a ticket is not a good idea—it can still affect your license status.
Can You Fight an Out-of-State Speeding Ticket?
Yes, but contesting a ticket from another state can be more difficult than fighting one in your home state. Here are some options if you want to dispute your ticket:
1. Travel to the State
You can go to the state where the violation occurred and fight the ticket in person. This may be inconvenient, especially if the state is far from your home.
2. Submit a Written Appeal
Some states allow you to contest a ticket in writing. If this option is available, you can send a written defense explaining your case.
3. Hire an Attorney
In some states, you can hire a lawyer to represent you in court. This allows you to challenge the ticket without traveling. However, legal fees may outweigh the cost of the fine.
How to Pay an Out-of-State Ticket
If you decide to pay the ticket, the process is simple. The citation will include:
The fine amount
The due date
Accepted payment methods
Where to send the payment
Important: If you miss the deadline, you may face additional fines, license suspension, or even a warrant in some cases.
Will an Out-of-State Ticket Add Points to Your License?
It depends on where you live. Some states add points for out-of-state traffic violations, while others do not.
- If your home state assesses points for speeding, the violation may appear on your record.
- If your home state does not track out-of-state violations, it may not affect your record.
Check Your State’s Laws:
Each state handles out-of-state violations differently, so check with your local DMV to find out how your state processes these tickets.
Getting an out-of-state speeding ticket doesn’t mean you can ignore it. Most states share violation information, and failing to pay the fine can result in license suspension. If you receive a ticket, you have three options:
Pay the fine before the due date.
Contest the ticket in court, in writing, or through an attorney.
Check with your state’s DMV to see if the ticket affects your record.
Regardless of where you receive a ticket, the best approach is to resolve it quickly to avoid further penalties.
FAQ’s
Do I have to pay an out-of-state speeding ticket?
Yes, you are responsible for resolving an out-of-state speeding ticket. Ignoring it could lead to additional penalties, including license suspension.
Will my home state find out about my out-of-state ticket?
Most likely, yes. Most states participate in the Driver’s License Compact (DLC), which shares traffic violation information across state lines.
What happens if I don’t pay an out-of-state ticket?
If you don’t pay the ticket, your home state may suspend your license under the Nonresident Violator Compact (NVC). You could also face late fees or additional fines.
Can I fight an out-of-state speeding ticket?
Yes. You can either travel to the state, submit a written appeal (if allowed), or hire an attorney to represent you in court.
Will an out-of-state speeding ticket add points to my license?
It depends. Some states add points for out-of-state violations, while others do not. Check with your local DMV to see how your state handles them.