Traffic Ticket True Cost Calculator
A traffic ticket costs far more than the fine. Calculate your real 3-year cost including insurance increases, and see how much traffic school can save you.
Enter Your Ticket Details
Traffic school dismisses your ticket, prevents points, and keeps your insurance rates down. Most online courses take 4-8 hours and cost under $50.
Find an Approved Traffic School CourseInsurance Impact Breakdown
Estimates are based on average fine ranges and a national average insurance increase of 24% for moving violations. Actual costs vary by county, judge, insurance provider, driving history, and other factors. This calculator provides general estimates for informational purposes only.
How This Calculator Works
This calculator estimates the true 3-year cost of a traffic ticket by accounting for three cost categories most people overlook:
1. The Fine Is Just the Beginning
The base fine on your ticket is typically the smallest part of the total cost. Court fees, surcharges, and penalty assessments can double or triple the amount you actually owe.
2. Insurance Increases Are the Real Cost
A single moving violation raises your insurance premium by 20-30% for 3 years on average. On a $1,800/year policy, that is $1,296 to $1,944 in extra premiums – far more than the fine itself.
Insurance increases are higher for:
- Speeding violations (especially 20+ mph over)
- Multiple violations within 3 years
- Younger drivers (under 25)
- Drivers with prior claims
3. Traffic School Prevents the Insurance Hit
When you complete traffic school, your ticket is dismissed (or adjudication is withheld). Your insurance company never sees the violation, so your rates stay the same. The course typically costs $15-50 and takes 4-8 hours.
Data sources: Fine amounts are based on published state fee schedules and court records. Insurance increase percentages are based on national averages from insurance industry studies. Actual costs vary by county, court, and insurance provider.
This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual fines, fees, and insurance impacts vary by jurisdiction and individual circumstances. Consult your court and insurance provider for exact amounts.