Illinois Speeding Ticket: Costs & Penalties

Speeding tickets in Illinois might seem like a minor inconvenience, but they may add up quickly. From base fines to increased insurance rates and additional court fees, the potential cost of a speeding violation in the state may get expensive. Understanding what costs, penalties, and Illinois auto insurance hikes may occur when you get an Illinois speeding ticket may help drivers make better decisions while on the road.  

Illinois speeding ticket fines 

So, how much is a speeding ticket in Illinois? Your ticket cost typically depends on how much you exceeded the speed limit. As of March 2025, these fines are as follows: 

• 1-20 mph over: $120  
• 21-25 mph over: $140  
• 26-34 mph over: Maximum of $1,500 
• 35 mph over: Maximum of $2,500   

Though these fines are just the base line, they may come with other penalties. Additional fees may significantly increase the total cost, especially for repeat offenses. Driving 26 mph over the speed limit may end up in a Class B misdemeanor, which could lead to up to six months in jail. Illinois also imposes higher fines if you’re caught speeding in a school or construction zone.  

Additional fees and assessments 

Beyond the base fine, speeding in Illinois may lead to additional costs depending on where the violation occurs. Here are some factors to consider:  

• City penalties: Cities in Illinois, like Chicago, may have different or additional fees for driving over the speeding limit.  
• Court costs: Court fees may range from $50 to $250, depending on the severity of your offense. 
• Assessment fees: Local municipalities and counties may have assessment fees that may raise the total cost your speeding ticket.  

If you receive a Chicago speeding ticket, you may have experienced extra enforcement through speed cameras and automated ticketing. In certain areas, automated cameras may issue tickets when drivers exceed the speed limit by six mph or more. Understanding the additional enforcement in Chicago may help you remember to drive more cautiously in these urban areas.    

Impact on insurance rates 

Getting a speeding ticket in Illinois can be costly, but could it also raise the cost of your auto insurance? Here are some things to consider about speeding and auto insurance prices: 

• Illinois drivers may experience an escalation in their insurance premiums after receiving a single speeding ticket. The increased cost may also depend on your insurance company, age, and overall driving history.  
• If you get a speeding ticket from an automated camera, it may not directly affect your insurance rate. Depending on your insurance company and where you live, you may be able to avoid an auto insurance spike from camera tickets. On the other hand, not paying your speeding tickets in a timely manner could lead to insurance increases, regardless of how they’re administered.  

By avoiding speeding, you may be able to keep your auto insurance rates from escalating.  

Traffic school  

If you’re worried about speeding or having your insurance rates, go up, you may want to attend a traffic school. In some cases, you may be required by an Illinois court to take these courses depending on your offense. Also known as defensive driving courses, traffic school may help you get your speeding ticket dismissed or help limit the increase of your insurance rates. Though you’ll likely have to pay the cost of the driving courses, it may decrease your expenses in the long run.  

Other potential consequences 

Aside from fines and insurance increases, speeding tickets can lead to more serious consequences: 

• Points on driving record: If you get a speeding or traffic violation, you could get points added to your record. Accumulating 15 points or more from certain violations may lead to a driver’s license suspension. If you drive over the speed limit by 1-10 mph, you may receive 5 points, while driving more than 25 mph over may lead to 50 points. Accumulating points may lead to license suspension or revocation.  
• Misdemeanor charges: Driving 26 mph over the speed limit or more may result in a misdemeanor charge, which may also lead to potential jail time. 
• License suspension: Accumulating 3 or more moving violations within 12 months may lead to your license being suspended. 

Tips to help avoid speeding tickets 

If you want to avoid getting a speeding ticket, there are a couple things you can do that may help lessen the probability. Here are some tips that may guide you:  

• Follow speed limits: An excellent way to help you avoid speeding tickets is by adhering to posted speed limits. 
• Pay attention to speed limit changes: Staying alert for speed changes, especially in construction and school zones, can help you avoid traffic violations.  
• Leave early: Giving yourself extra time to get to your destination may help you limit your speeding. 

Get a quote with Illinois Vehicle Insurance Agency, LLC 

Speeding might seem like a small mistake, but the financial impact may be significant. At Illinois Vehicle Insurance Agency, LLC (Illinois Vehicle), we understand that traffic violations may lead to high costs and auto insurance increases. Our friendly agents are familiar with Illinois traffic laws and can help guide you through your insurance coverage questions.  

If you’re looking for an auto insurance policy in the Chicagoland area, Illinois Vehicle can help. Visit one of our 43 locations in Chicagoland or call us today at 630-581-4805 for a free, personalized quote! 

Disclaimer:    

This material is for general informational purposes only. Products, services, and discounts referenced herein are not available in all states or in all companies. All statements are subject to the terms, exclusions, and conditions of the applicable policy. In all instances, current policy contract language prevails. Coverage is subject to individual policyholders meeting the insurer's underwriting qualifications and state availability. Other terms, conditions and exclusions may apply.