Speeding tickets are a type of moving violation issued by law enforcement when a driver exceeds the posted speed limit in a vehicle (speeding tickets can also apply to non-motorized vehicles, such as bicycles). Speed limits and traffic violations vary by municipalities and states.
Speeding tickets can be issued when a driver exceeds a posted speed limit by just 1 mph over. Generally, speeding tickets are punishable with a fine and points to one's driving record. However, if a speeding ticket is issued for excessive speed, generally classified as 15 mph over the posted speed limit, a driver may be cited for reckless driving. Depending on the speed and nature of the citation, speeding tickets may be classified as a misdemeanor. Multiple citations, endangering the public, or causing bodily injury or property are all ways that speeding tickets can be forms of misdemeanors. Injuring others with a motor vehicle while speeding can also be a felony offense, depending on the nature of the incident.
Speeding tickets and traffic violations are maintained at the state level by the Department of Motor Vehicles.