If you get stopped for a traffic violation in Connecticut, you’ll generally have several options for dealing with the ticket. You can fight the ticket in traffic court or just pay the ticket and move on. But assuming you admit fault or are ultimately convicted, a traffic violation normally results in fines and demerit points being assessed by the DMV. More serious traffic violation convictions can also lead to license suspension and jail time.
Here are the fines, points, and other consequences for some common traffic offenses in Connecticut. However, the penalties for a traffic ticket can vary depending on the specifics of the case.
What Are the Fines & Points for Speeding Tickets in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, the penalties for speeding violations differ depending on the type of speed limit and the driver's speed.
Connecticut's Two Types of Speed Limits
In Connecticut, you can get a speeding ticket for exceeding the maximum speed limit or driving “unreasonably fast.” Maximum speed limits are usually posted and are just what they sound like—the top speed a motorist can drive on the roadway. However, a motorist can be cited for driving unreasonably fast without exceeding the maximum speed limit. The unreasonably fast law prohibits driving faster than is reasonable based on current circumstances like road and weather conditions. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 14-218a (2025); Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 14-219 (2025).)
Penalties for Speeding Violations in Connecticut
| Type of Violation | Fines and Fees (less than 56 miles per hour | Fines and Fees (more than 56 miles per hour | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 to 9 miles per hour over limit |
$142 |
$162 |
1 |
|
10 to 21 miles per hour over limit |
$147 to $200 |
$167 to 220 |
1 |
|
22 or more miles per hour over limit |
$206 |
$226 |
1 |
For speeding violations that occur in construction or school zones, the fines are higher. The fines are also higher if the driver's speed was at least 70 miles per hour. (Conn. Agencies Regs. 14-137a-5 (2025).)
What Are the Fines & Points for Stop Sign and Stop Light Tickets in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, stop sign and red light violations carry the same penalties.
Connecticut's Stop Sign and Traffic Signal Rules
At a stop sign or stop light, motorists must come to a complete stop before the nearest of a marked limit line, entering the crosswalk, or entering the intersection itself. Connecticut motorists can make a right turn at a red light provided there’s no sign at the intersection specifically prohibiting it. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 14-299 (2025); Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 14-301 (2025).)
Penalties for Stop Sign and Red Light Violations in Connecticut
| Type of Violation | Fines and Fees | Points |
|---|---|---|
|
Stop sign |
$139 |
2 |
|
Stop light |
$139 |
2 |
(Conn. Agencies Regs. 14-137a-5 (2025).)
What Are the Fines & Points for Distracted Driving Tickets in Connecticut?
Connecticut's distracted driving penalties vary depending on the driver's record.
Connecticut's Texting and Cell Phone Rules for Drivers
Connecticut’s distracted driving law generally prohibits all motorists from text messaging or using a handheld cell phone while operating a vehicle. (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 14-296aa (2025).)
Connecticut's Distracted Driving Ticket Penalties
| Type of Violation | Fines (no fees) | Points |
|---|---|---|
|
First violation |
$200 |
1 |
|
Second violation |
$375 |
1 |
|
Third or subsequent violation |
$625 |
1 |
(Conn. Agencies Regs. 14-137a-5 (2025).)