A traffic ticket in Rhode Island will typically lead to having to pay a fine. (That is, unless you’re able to beat the ticket in traffic court). Here are the penalties for speeding, stop sign, red light, and distracted driving violations in Rhode Island. However, penalties can vary depending on the circumstances.
What Are the Fines for Speeding Tickets in Rhode Island?
Fine amounts for speeding tickets in Rhode Island depend primarily on the driver's speed in relation to the speed limit.
Rhode Has Two Types of Speed Limits
Rhode Island using “prima facie” or “presumed” speed limits and has a “basic speed rule.” The basic speed rule prohibits driving at a speed that’s faster than is “reasonable and prudent” given the current conditions and roadway attributes. Prima facie limits are typically posted and set the presumptive reasonable maximum speed. Drivers who are caught driving faster than a prima facie limit are presumed to have been driving an unsafe speed. However, a driver can still beat the ticket by proving in court that the speed—though over the prima facie limit—was reasonable and prudent. (31 R.I. Gen. Laws Ann. §§ 31-14-1, 31-14-2 (2025).)
Penalties for Rhode Island Speeding Tickets
|
Type of Violation |
Fine |
|
Basic speed law violation |
$95 |
|
1 to 10 miles per hour over the limit (first offense in 12 months) |
$95 |
|
1 to 10 miles per hour over the limit (second offense in 12 months) |
$95 plus $10 per mile per hour over the speed limit. |
|
1 to 10 miles per hour over the limit (third offense in 12 months) |
$95 plus $15 per mile per hour over the speed limit |
|
11 or more miles per hour over the limit (first offense in 12 months) |
$205 plus $10 per mile per hour over the speed limit. |
|
11 or more miles per hour over the limit (first offense in 12 months) |
$205 plus $15 per mile per hour over the speed limit |
|
11 or more miles per hour over the limit (first offense in 12 months) |
$205 plus $20 per mile per hour over the speed limit |
A speeding violation can also result in license suspension, depending on the circumstances of the case. (31 R.I. Gen. Laws Ann. § 31-41.1-4 (2025).)
What Are the Fines for Stop Sign and Stop Light Tickets in Rhode Island?
The fines are the same for stop sign and red light tickets in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island's Stop Sign and Traffic Signal Laws
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. Unless there’s a sign prohibiting it, a right turn on red (after first stopping) is allowed in Rhode Island. (31 R.I. Gen. Laws Ann. §§ 31-13-6, 31-17-4 (2025).)
Penalties for Running a Red Light or Stop Sign in Rhode Island
Generally, the fine for stop sign or red light violation is $85. (31 R.I. Gen. Laws Ann. § 31-41.1-4 (2025).)
What are the Fines & Suspension Periods for Distracted Driving in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island's distracted driving penalties depend on the type of violation (phone or texting) and how many past violations the driver has.
Rhode Island's Cell Phone and Texting Rules for Drivers
Rhode Island’s distracted driving laws generally prohibit texting and using a handheld phone while driving. (31 R.I. Gen. Laws Ann. § 31-22-30 (2025).)
Penalties for Distracted Driving Tickets in Rhode Island
|
Type of Violation |
Fine |
License Suspension |
|
First texting violation |
Up to $100 |
Up to 30 days |
|
Second texting violation |
Up to $150 |
Up to 3 months |
|
Third texting violation |
Up to $250 |
Up to 6 months |
|
Cell Phone violation |
Up to $100 |
None |