If you get a traffic ticket in Missouri, you’ll have several options for dealing with it. You can pay the ticket or go to traffic court and fight the ticket. A traffic violation—assuming the motorist is convicted—typically results in a fine and demerit points being assessed to the motorist’s driving record. And for some more serious violations, jail time is possible.
Here are the fines, points, and other consequences for common traffic offenses in Missouri. However, the specific penalties for a traffic ticket can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. The amounts listed below are the fines and court costs associated with a violation.
What Are the Fines & Points for Missouri Speeding Tickets?
The fines amounts for speeding tickets in Missouri vary depending on the amount by which the driver exceeded the speed limit.
Missouri's Absolute Speed Limits and Basic Speeding Law
Missouri has absolute speed limits and a basic speeding law. Absolute limits are just the maximum speeds a person is allowed to drive on a roadway. Ordinarily, absolute limits are posted. (Mo. Ann. Stat. § 304.010 (2025).)
The state’s basic speeding law doesn’t set a maximum speed. Instead, the basic speeding law says it’s illegal to drive at a speed that is “greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions then existing.” So, if road conditions are hazardous, a motorist can be in violation of the basic speed law even if driving slower than the posted maximum. (Mo. Ann. Stat. § 304.012 (2025).)
Penalties for Speeding Violations in Missouri
|
Type of Violation |
Fine |
Points |
|
1 to 5 miles per hour over the limit |
$50.50 |
3 |
|
6 to 10 miles per hour over the limit |
$60.50 |
3 |
|
11 to 15 miles per hour over the limit |
$70.50 |
3 |
|
16 to 19 miles per hour over the limit |
$100.50 |
3 |
|
20 to 25 miles per hour over the limit |
$155.50 |
3 |
|
25 miles per hour or more over the limit |
Up to $750 |
3 |
The fines may be substantially more expensive for speeding violations that occur in construction and work zones. Also, fees can increase the amount you have to pay. (Mo. Ann. Stat. § 302.302 (2025).)
What Are the Fines & Points for Stop Sign and Stop Light Tickets in Missouri?
In Missouri, stop sign and red light violations generally carry the same penalties.
Missouri'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 stop line, entering the crosswalk, or entering the intersection itself. In Missouri, making a right turn at a red light is permitted provided there’s no sign at the intersection specifically prohibiting it. (Mo. Ann. Stat. § 304.351, 304.281 (2025).)
Penalties for Running a Stop Sign or Red Light in Missouri
|
Type of Violation |
Fine |
Points |
|
Stop light |
$60.50 |
2 |
|
Stop sign |
$60.50 |
1 or 2 |
Missouri law does permit the use of automated cameras at intersections to catch red-light violators. (Mo. Ann. Stat. § 302.302 (2025).)
What Are the Fines & Points for Distracted Driving Tickets in Missouri?
Missouri’s distracted driving law prohibits all motorists from using cell phones and other handheld electronic devices while operating a vehicle. (Mo. Ann. Stat. § 304.822 (2025).)
|
Type of Violation |
Fine |
Points |
|
First offense |
Up to $150 |
2 |
|
Second offense in 24 months |
Up to $250 |
|
|
Third offense in 24 months |
Up to $500 |
(Mo. Ann. Stat. § 302.302 (2025).)