A texting while driving ticket can increase auto insurance premiums, but the exact amount varies by insurer, location, and your driving record. On average, many sources report increases ranging from about 20% to 30% per incident, with typical annual dollar increases often in the hundreds of dollars. The precise impact depends on factors such as prior violations, the severity of the ticket, whether the state imposes demerit points, and how your insurer classifies distracted driving risk. Key points to consider

• Typical range: Expect premium increases in the ballpark of 20%–30% after a texting-while-driving ticket, though some cases show higher spikes depending on the insurer and state rules. This aligns with commonly cited figures that show double-digit percentage increases and, in some situations, several hundred dollars more per year.

• Duration of effect: Many insurers apply the surcharge or rating change for multiple years, often 2–3 years, but this can vary by company and jurisdiction.

• Variability by state and insurer: Some states have stricter penalties and higher risk signals, while insurers differ in how aggressively they adjust rates for distracted driving. Always check your own policy’s endorsements and your state’s laws.

• Other costs: Fines, court costs, and potential increases in liability coverage can also affect overall costs beyond premiums.

What to do next

• Obtain a personalized quote: Contact your insurer or use your online account to see how a texting-while-driving ticket would affect your specific rate and coverage.
• Shop around after a lapse: If your rate increases significantly, compare quotes from multiple providers; some insurers may offer more favorable terms for drivers with a clean record going forward.
• Drive record improvement: If possible, maintain a clean driving record for a few years to reduce the long-term impact of a single ticket on your premiums.

If you’d like, share your location (country/state) and your current insurer, and I can provide a more tailored estimate based on typical industry patterns in your area.