If you’re cited for a traffic violation in Vermont you’ll likely be facing a fine and demerit points going on your driving record. (This, of course, assumes you don’t successfully beat the citation in traffic court.) Here are the penalties—including fines and points—for speeding, stop sign, red light, and distracted driving violations in Vermont. However, penalties can vary depending on the circumstances.
What are the Fines, Points, & Jail Time for Vermont Speeding Tickets?
The penalties for speeding violations in Vermont depend mainly on the driver's speed in relation to the speed limit.
Vermont's Two Types of Speed Limits
Vermont has a basic speeding law and maximum speed limits. The basic speeding law requires motorists to always drive at a “reasonable and prudent speeding” given the current conditions and road attributes. Maximum speed limits (sometimes called “absolute limits”) are more straightforward and just set the top lawful speed on the particular stretch of roadway. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 1081 (2025).)
Speeding Violation Penalties in Vermont
1 to 10 miles per hour over the limit:
- Fine - $5 times the number of miles per hour over the limit plus 15% and $47
- Jail - None
- Points - 2
11 to 20 miles per hour over the limit:
- Fine - $6 times the number of miles per hour over the limit plus 15% and $47
- Jail - None
- Points - 3
21 to 30 miles per hour over the limit:
- Fine - $8 times the number of miles per hour over the limit plus 15% and $47
- Jail - None
- Points - 5
31 or more miles per hour over the limit:
- Fine - $12 times the number of miles per hour over the limit plus 15% and $47
- Jail - None
- Points - 10
At least 60 miles per hour and at least 30 miles per hour over the limit:
- Fine - Up to $300 (first offense); Up to $500 (second offense)
- Jail - Up to 3 months (first offense); Up to 6 months (second offense)
For work zone violations, the fine multiplier is doubled. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 1097 (2025).)
What Are the Fines & Points for Stop Sign and Stop Light Tickets in Vermont?
Stop sign and stop light tickets in Vermont will lead to a fine and several driver's license points.
Vermont'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. Unless there’s a sign prohibiting it, a right turn on red (after first stopping) is allowed in Vermont. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 1022 (2025); Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 1048 (2025).)
Red Light and Stop Sign Ticket Penalties in Vermont
Red Light Ticket in VT:
- Fine - $220
- Points - 2
Stop Sign Ticket in VT:
- Fine - $162
- Points - 2
What Are the Fines & Points for Distracted Driving in Vermont?
The penalties for texting and cell phone violations in Vermont depend on the driver's record.
Vermont's Texting and Cell Phone Rules for Drivers
Vermont’s distracted driving laws prohibit handheld device use (including text messaging and cell phone use) for all drivers while operating a vehicle. Drivers who are under the age of 18 are also prohibited from hands-free device use. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 1095a (2025); Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 1095b (2025); Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 1099 (2025).)
Vermont's Distracted Driving Penalties
First Distracted Driving Offense in VT:
- Fine - $100 to $200
- Points - 2
Second or Subsequent Distracted Driving Offense within 2 Years:
- Fine - $250 to $500
- Points - 2
For distracted driving violations that occur in a construction zone, the points are at least doubled.