First-Time Traffic Ticket Costs in Memphis, TN: Fines, Fees, and Consequences
A first-time traffic ticket in Memphis (Shelby County) costs more than the base fine. Here's the breakdown:
Typical Cost Structure
| Component | Amount | Notes |
|---|
| Base Fine | $10–$50+ | Varies by violation (speeding, red light, no seatbelt, etc.) |
| Court Costs | $100–$150 | Fixed by Shelby County General Sessions Court |
| State Fees / Surcharges | $50–$100 | Tennessee Criminal Injuries Fund, TBI, etc. |
| Total (Typical) | $160–$300+ | Most common range for moving violations |
Violation-Specific Examples (Memphis / Shelby Co.)
- Speeding 1–5 mph over: ~$175 total
- Speeding 10–15 mph over: ~$200–$250
- Red light / Stop sign: ~$200–$250
- No seat belt: ~$150 (no court costs if paid pre-court)
- Reckless driving: $500+ (mandatory court)
- Texting while driving: ~$200+
Additional Consequences
- Points on license: TN uses point system (1–8 pts/violation); 12 pts in 12 mos = suspension
- Insurance increase: 20–50%+ for 3–5 years; average $400–$800/yr extra
- Defensive driving school: 4-hr course (~$50) may dismiss points (once per 5 yrs)
- License suspension: For serious/repeat offenses; reinstatement fees
- Court appearance: Required for some violations; missed court = warrant + fees
Options After a Ticket
- Pay: Plead guilty; points assessed; insurance impact
- Contest: Plead not guilty; court date; officer must appear
- Defensive Driving / Traffic School: If eligible, dismisses points (not all violations)
- Plea bargain: Reduce to non-moving violation (no points); attorney helps
Key Resources
- Shelby County General Sessions Court: shelbycountytn.gov
- TN Dept of Safety: tn.gov/safety (driver record, points)
- Legal aid: Memphis Area Legal Services, UMemphis Law Clinic
Don't ignore it. Unpaid tickets → license hold, warrant, arrest on next stop.
Wanderlust World