If you get a traffic ticket in Oregon, you’ll typically have several options for dealing with it. You can try fighting the ticket in traffic court. If you win your case, you won’t have to pay anything or worry about blemishes on your driving record. But if you’re convicted (either after a trial or by admitting fault), you’ll likely have to pay a fine and may face insurance rate increases. Traffic school is another alternative available to some drivers.
Below you’ll find the fines and other consequences for some of Oregon's most common traffic violations. Fees added to the total can increase the amount you’ll have to pay for a traffic ticket. Also, the specific penalties for a traffic ticket can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. The “presumptive fine” generally works as the starting point for judges.
What are the Fines and Possible Suspension Periods for Oregon Speeding Tickets?
The penalties for a speeding ticket in Oregon depend on how fast you were going in relation to the speed limit and where the violation occurred.
Oregon's Basic and Absolute Speed Limits
Oregon has two types of speed limits: basic and absolute. The basic speeding law prohibits driving faster than is reasonable and prudent given the current road, traffic, and weather conditions. An absolute limit is just the maximum speed you’re allowed to driving on the particular roadway. Absolute limits are normally posted. (Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 811.100 (2024); Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 811.111 (2024).)
Penalties for Speeding Tickets in Oregon
1 to 10 miles per hour over the limit:
- Presumptive Fine - $115
- Presumptive Fine (Construction or School Zone) - $225
- License Suspension - None
11 to 20 miles per hour over the limit:
- Presumptive Fine - $165
- Presumptive Fine (Construction or School Zone) - $325
- License Suspension - None
21 to 30 miles per hour over the limit:
- Presumptive Fine - $265
- Presumptive Fine (Construction or School Zone) - $525
- License Suspension - None
Over 30 miles per hour in excess of the limit:
- Presumptive Fine - $440
- Presumptive Fine (Construction or School Zone) - $875
- License Suspension - Up to 30 days if 1 prior within the past year
100 miles per hour or more over the limit:
- Presumptive Fine - $1,150
- Presumptive Fine (Construction or School Zone) - $1,150
- License Suspension - 30 to 90 days
(Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 153.019 (2024); Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 811.109 (2024).)
What Are the Fines for Stop Sign and Stop Light Tickets in Oregon?
Fines are the same for stop sign and red light tickets and, unlike with speeding tickets, license suspension isn't a possible penalties.
Oregon's Stop Sign and Red Light Laws
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. In Oregon, making a right turn at a red light is permitted provided there’s no sign at the intersection explicitly prohibiting it. (Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 811.260 (2024); Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 811.265 (2024).)
Fines for Stop Sign and Red Light Violations in Oregon
|
Type of Violation |
Presumptive Fine |
|
Stop light |
$265 |
|
Stop sign |
$265 |
(Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 153.019 (2024).)
What Are the Penalties for Distracted Driving (Texting and Phones) in Oregon?
Distracted driving violations generally carry only a fine. However, a third conviction can also lead to jail time.
Oregon's Distracted Driving Law
Oregon’s distracted driving law prohibits using a mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle. (Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 811.507 (2024).)
Penalties for Distracted Driving Tickets in Oregon
First Distracted Driving Offense in OR:
- Presumptive Fine - $265
- Jail - None
First Distracted Driving Offense Involving an Accident in OR:
- Presumptive Fine - $440
- Jail - None
Second Offense within 10 Years:
- Presumptive Fine - $440
- Jail - None
Third Offense within 10 Years (Misdemeanor):
- Presumptive Fine - $2,000 to $2,500
- Jail - Up to six months
For a first distracted driving violation, the court can suspend the fine for 120 days and allow the driver to complete a distracted driving avoidance course. (Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 153.019 (2024).)
What Are the Fines and Jail Time for Driving Without a License in Oregon?
The penalties for unlicensed driving vary greatly depending on the circumstances. Generally, the penalties are most severe if the driver was unlicensed because of a suspension or revocation.
Oregon's Driver's License Requirement
Generally, all Oregon motorists must have a valid license in their possession while operating a vehicle. A driver is considered unlicensed if they never had a license, let their license expire, didn't have a license in their possession while driving, or had their license suspended or revoked. (Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 807.010 (2024); Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 807.570 (2024).)
Penalties for Unlicensed Driving in Oregon
License Not in Possession in OR:
- Fine - Up to $1,250 (driver can avoid the penalties by presenting proof of having a then-valid license)
- Jail - Up to 30 days (unlikely unless aggravating circumstances)
Unlicensed Driving in OR:
- Presumptive Fine - $265
- Jail - None
Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in OR:
- Presumptive Fine - $440
- Jail - None
Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License That Was Related to a Misdemeanor DUII, Reckless Driving, or a BAC Test Refusal (Class A Misdemeanor):
- Fine - Up to $6,250
- Jail - Up to 364 days
Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License That Was Related to a Felony DUII, Murder, or Manslaughter (Class B Felony):
- Presumptive Fine - Up to $250,000
- Jail - Up to 10 years
(Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 153.019 (2024); Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 163.196 (2024); Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 809.409 (2024); Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 811.175 (2024); Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 811.182 (2024).)