The 10 Most Ticketed Cars by State in 2025 🚓


Video: The Most Ticketed Car in Every State.







Ever wonder which cars are the biggest magnets for speeding tickets across the U.S.? Spoiler alert: it’s not just the flashy supercars you’d expect. From Ohio’s relentless traffic cops to Virginia’s strict speeding laws, certain vehicles and states top the charts in surprising ways. Did you know the sporty yet affordable Subaru BRZ leads the pack with nearly 24% of its drivers having a speeding ticket? Or that Ohio drivers are the most ticketed nationwide, with over 16% holding speeding violations?

Stick around as we unveil the top 10 states with the highest ticket rates, break down which cars are most often caught in the radar’s crosshairs, and share expert tips on how to avoid becoming a statistic yourself. Plus, we’ll bust myths about car colors and reveal how driver behavior often outpaces the car itself in attracting tickets. Ready to find out if your ride is a ticket magnet? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • Subaru BRZ and Hyundai Genesis Coupe top the list as the most ticketed cars nationwide, driven by enthusiasts with a need for speed.
  • Ohio, Virginia, and Iowa lead U.S. states in speeding ticket rates, each with unique enforcement styles and tough penalties.
  • Driver behavior and demographics matter more than the car’s brand or color—young, inexperienced drivers in affordable sporty cars get cited most.
  • Traffic tickets can increase insurance premiums by an average of 24%, making safe driving a smart financial move.
  • Expert tips include defensive driving, knowing local laws, and vehicle maintenance to avoid costly tickets and keep your record clean.

👉 Shop sporty and popular ticketed cars responsibly:

Table of Contents

Here at Car Brands™, we’ve spent countless hours behind the wheel, on the track, and deep in the data. We’ve argued over horsepower, debated design philosophies, and yes, maybe even collected a “performance award” or two from local law enforcement over the years. 😉 So when the question comes up—”What’s the most ticketed car?”—our ears perk up.

But the answer isn’t as simple as pointing a finger at a flashy red sports car. It’s a fascinating cocktail of driver behavior, vehicle popularity, and even where you live. Is your trusty daily driver secretly a ticket magnet? Are you driving through a state known for its eagle-eyed highway patrol? Let’s pop the hood on this topic and find out what’s really going on.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: What You Need to Know First

Pressed for time? Here’s the high-octane summary of what our research and experience have uncovered about the most ticketed cars and states.

  • The Unsuspecting Offender: The most ticketed car model isn’t a Ferrari or a Lamborghini. According to a massive Insurify study, it’s the sporty and affordable Subaru BRZ, with nearly 24% of its drivers reporting a prior speeding ticket!
  • State of Speed: The state with the highest percentage of drivers with speeding tickets is Ohio. A whopping 16.1% of Buckeye State drivers have a lead-foot legacy on their record, according to RateGenius.
  • It’s Not Just Speed: While speeding is the main event, remember that tickets can also come from expired registrations, broken taillights, or “aggressive” driving. Don’t give them an easy reason to pull you over!
  • The Color Myth: Think red cars get the most tickets? Think again. We did a deep dive into What Color Car Gets the Most Speeding Tickets? Top 7 Revealed (2025) 🚨, and the results will surprise you. (Hint: It has more to do with popularity than paint).
  • The Cost of a Ticket: It’s more than just the fine. A single speeding ticket can jack up your insurance rates by an average of 24%, costing you hundreds of dollars a year. Ouch.
  • It’s Often the Driver, Not the Drivetrain: While powerful cars are on the list, so are economical daily drivers like the Chevrolet Cruze and Toyota Yaris. This proves it’s less about the car’s capabilities and more about the person behind the wheel.

🔍 Unpacking the Myth: Are Certain Cars Truly Ticket Magnets?

We’ve all seen it: a sleek, low-slung sports car on the shoulder, red and blue lights flashing in its rearview mirror. It’s a classic image that has cemented the idea that if you drive a fast-looking car, you’re destined to get tickets. But is that the whole story? Or is it just a convenient narrative?

The “Most Ticketed Car” Conundrum: Perception vs. Reality

Let’s be honest, a Porsche 911 just looks like it’s breaking the speed limit, even when it’s parked. This is the power of perception. Law enforcement officers are human, and they might be subconsciously more attentive to a car that fits the “speeder” profile.

However, the data tells a more nuanced story. The Insurify report highlights that many of the most-ticketed models are not high-end supercars but affordable, sporty vehicles. Think Subaru WRX, Volkswagen GTI, and the discontinued Scion FR-S. This suggests a different culprit: the intersection of an enthusiastic driver and an accessible performance car. You don’t need a six-figure budget to get a car that begs to be driven hard.

Beyond the Badge: Understanding the Factors Behind Traffic Stops

A traffic stop is rarely about a single factor. It’s a complex equation where the car is just one variable. Here are the other elements at play:

  • Driver Behavior: This is the big one. Weaving through traffic, tailgating, and aggressive acceleration are like waving a giant “pull me over” flag.
  • Driver Demographics: Statistics consistently show that younger, less experienced drivers are involved in more accidents and receive more citations. They also tend to drive the affordable, sporty cars that top the ticketed lists. Coincidence? We think not.
  • Location, Location, Location: Driving 10 mph over the limit on a deserted rural highway is different from doing it in a busy suburban school zone. Enforcement priorities change drastically by area.
  • Vehicle Condition: A busted taillight, expired tags, or illegally dark window tint is what officers call “probable cause.” It gives them a perfectly legal reason to initiate a stop, and if you happen to be speeding too, you’re getting two for the price of one.

This isn’t just about one car versus another; it’s a holistic picture. Our extensive Car Brand Comparisons show that while some brands have a sportier reputation, driver habits are the ultimate deciding factor.

📊 The Data Decoded: What the Numbers Really Say About Ticketed Vehicles

Alright, let’s get down to the brass tacks. Numbers don’t lie, but they can be misinterpreted. We’re going to break down the data from the most comprehensive studies to separate fact from fiction.

Performance vs. Perception: High-Horsepower Suspects and Their Owners

It’s no shocker that cars built for speed are driven by people who enjoy speed. The Insurify list is a hall of fame for accessible performance. These aren’t just cars; they’re invitations to find a winding road.

Model % of Drivers with a Ticket Horsepower (approx.) Car Brands™ Take 🎙️

Subaru BRZ		 23.9% 228 The king of the list! A perfectly balanced, rear-wheel-drive, lightweight coupe that’s more about handling than raw power. It’s so fun, drivers can’t help themselves.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe		 21.9% 348 A muscle car in a tuxedo. With a potent V6 and aggressive styling, this one was bound to attract attention from enthusiasts and law enforcement alike.

Volkswagen GTI		 18.8% 200-241 The original “hot hatch.” It’s practical, refined, and an absolute riot to drive. It’s the car that whispers, “Go on, that highway on-ramp is empty…”

Nissan 350Z		 17.6% 306 A modern classic. Its iconic design and the glorious sound of its VQ-series V6 engine are a recipe for a heavy right foot.

Subaru WRX		 16.9% 271 The rally-bred legend. With its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive grip, the WRX gives drivers a level of confidence that can easily exceed the speed limit.

As Insurify notes, “Drivers of the Subaru BRZ are the worst offenders when it comes to speeding.” It’s a testament to the car’s engaging nature. People buy these cars to feel something, and part of that feeling is acceleration.

👉 Shop these ticket magnets (responsibly, of course):

The Daily Driver Dilemma: Common Cars, Common Tickets?

Here’s where the data gets really interesting. It’s not all sports cars. Some of the most ticketed vehicles are humble, everyday sedans. What gives?

Wait, a Yaris? With its 106-horsepower engine? ✅ Yes!

This is a classic case of correlation not equaling causation. These are incredibly popular and affordable cars, often purchased as first cars for younger drivers or as economical commuters. There are simply more of them on the road, driven by a demographic that, statistically, gets more tickets. The car itself isn’t the problem; it’s a reflection of its driver base. It’s a key insight we often explore in our Car Brand Lists.

Color Me Busted? Debunking the Red Car Myth and Other Visual Cues

We’ve all heard the old wives’ tale: “Don’t buy a red car; it’s a cop magnet!” For years, this has been accepted as gospel. But we’re here to tell you it’s mostly fiction.

While a vibrant color like Lamborghini’s Verde Mantis green or Porsche’s Lava Orange will certainly get you noticed, studies have repeatedly shown that the most-ticketed car colors are the most popular ones: white, black, gray, and silver. Why? Because they represent the largest volume of cars on the road. It’s a simple numbers game. If 25% of cars are white, it stands to reason that they’ll be involved in roughly 25% of traffic stops. We break this down completely in our guide to the most ticketed car colors.

Where you drive is just as important as what you drive. Enforcement philosophies, traffic density, and road types vary wildly from state to state. Based on data from RateGenius, here are the top 10 states where drivers are most likely to have a speeding violation on their record.

#1. Ohio: The Buckeye State’s Busiest Roads and Enforcement Hotspots

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 16.1% 😱

Ohio takes the checkered flag, and not in a good way. As a major crossroads of America, with I-80, I-90, and I-75 crisscrossing the state, it sees a massive volume of commercial and passenger traffic. The Ohio State Patrol is known for being particularly vigilant. As RateGenius points out, during the pandemic, “state troopers wrote more tickets to drivers doing at least 100 mph than in 2019.” Empty roads were an open invitation for many, and the patrol responded in kind.

#2. Virginia: Speed Traps, Driver Habits, and Strict Regulations

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 15.8% ⚖️

Virginia is legendary among East Coast drivers for its strict traffic enforcement. The state has some of the most severe penalties in the country. Driving just 20 mph over the limit, or over 85 mph anywhere, can be charged as reckless driving—a criminal misdemeanor, not just a simple ticket. That charge stays on your record for a staggering 11 years. They are not messing around.

#3. Iowa: Understanding Local Enforcement and Rural Road Rules

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 15.6% 🌽

Don’t let the rolling fields fool you; Iowa law enforcement is serious about speed. The state saw a massive 108% increase in tickets for speeds over 100 mph in 2020. With long, straight stretches of highway, the temptation to open it up is high, but patrols are well aware of this. The low 55 mph speed limit on many urban interstates also catches many out-of-state drivers by surprise.

#4. South Carolina: Coastal Cruising vs. Consequences on Southern Highways

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 15.5% 🌴

South Carolina’s scenic beauty attracts a lot of tourists, and with them, a lot of traffic. The state uses a points system, where accumulating too many points from violations like speeding can lead to a license suspension. According to the state’s own data cited by RateGenius, “driving too fast for conditions” is a leading cause of collisions, making it a key point of emphasis for law enforcement.

#5. Wisconsin: Winding Roads, Winter Woes, and What Drivers Need to Know

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 14.8% 🧀

America’s Dairyland is also a land of hefty speeding fines. Speeding is the most common traffic violation in the state, and the costs can be eye-watering, ranging from $200 to over $800. Factor in challenging winter driving conditions, and you have a recipe for tickets related to driving too fast for the weather.

#6. Colorado: High-Altitude Enforcement and Mountain Driving Challenges

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 14.0% 🏔️

Driving in Colorado presents unique challenges, from steep mountain passes to unpredictable weather. Speeding 25 mph over the limit is a misdemeanor offense with potential jail time. The Colorado State Patrol has also focused on younger drivers, issuing more speeding tickets to the 16-21 age group than any other violation.

#7. Nebraska: Plains Driving, Interstate Insights, and Penalties

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 13.8% 🛣️

Like Iowa, Nebraska’s wide-open spaces on I-80 can feel like an invitation to speed. But patrols are active, and the state saw a 37% increase in tickets for speeds over 100 mph in 2021. The fines escalate quickly, from just $10 for 1-5 mph over to $300 for going 35+ mph over the limit.

#8. Wyoming: Big Sky, Big Fines? Navigating the Cowboy State’s Rules

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 13.7% 🤠

Wyoming has some of the highest speed limits in the country, with stretches of 80 mph. However, it also has a robust system of variable speed limits that change based on weather conditions. Getting caught doing 80 in a zone that’s been temporarily lowered to 55 due to high winds or ice is a common and costly mistake.

#9. Idaho: Navigating the Gem State’s Rules and Scenic Routes

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 13.3% 🥔

Idaho combines beautiful scenery with straightforward enforcement. The fines are clearly laid out: $90 for 1-15 mph over and $155 for anything 16 mph or more over the limit. While not as severe as Virginia, the state’s patrols are diligent, especially on popular tourist routes.

#10. Delaware: Small State, Specific Laws, and Surprising Enforcement

  • Drivers with a speeding ticket: 13.2% 💎

The first state is the tenth on our list! Delaware’s low 55 mph speed limit on its urban interstates, particularly the heavily trafficked I-95 corridor, contributes to its high rate of tickets. The state has also embraced technology, implementing an electronic speed safety program in construction zones to automatically ticket offenders.

👤 Beyond the Car: Driver Behavior, Demographics, and the Human Element

We’ve established that the car and the state are huge factors. But at the end of the day, the most critical component sits between the steering wheel and the driver’s seat: you. Let’s break down the human element that truly drives ticketing statistics.

The Lead Foot Factor: Driver Habits That Attract Law Enforcement Attention

It’s not always about raw speed. A whole suite of behaviors can paint a target on your back. Here are the habits that make officers take a second look:

  • Aggressive Lane Changes: Weaving in and out of traffic like you’re in a video game is a surefire way to get noticed.
  • Tailgating: Following too closely is not only dangerous, but it’s also a clear sign of an impatient and aggressive driver.
  • Rapid Acceleration/Braking: Jack-rabbit starts and slamming on the brakes suggest erratic and unpredictable driving.
  • Ignoring the Flow of Traffic: Driving significantly faster (or slower) than the surrounding cars disrupts the natural rhythm of the road and creates a hazard.

One of our reviewers, Dave, learned this the hard way. He was test-driving a perfectly tame Honda Odyssey and got pulled over. The reason? Not speeding. He was cited for an “unsafe lane change” while trying to navigate a confusing interchange. It proves that how you drive is often more important than what you drive.

Age, Experience, and Enforcement: Who’s Really Getting Pulled Over?

The data is clear: youth and inexperience are strongly correlated with higher ticket rates. As the RateGenius data from Colorado shows, drivers aged 16-21 are a focus for law enforcement. This isn’t just prejudice; it’s backed by crash statistics from the CDC.

This creates a perfect storm:

  1. Younger drivers have less disposable income.
  2. They often buy more affordable, used, sporty cars (like the Genesis Coupe or Scion tC from the Insurify list).
  3. Their lack of experience can lead to more risk-taking behaviors.
  4. This combination makes them a high-risk group for both tickets and accidents, which in turn affects the Car Brand Market Shares for these models among that demographic.

Insurance Implications: How Traffic Tickets Hit Your Wallet Hard

A speeding ticket is the gift that keeps on taking. The initial fine is just the beginning. The real pain comes from the hit to your insurance premium.

  • The 24% Surcharge: As RateGenius found, a speeding ticket can increase your rate by an average of 24%. On a typical policy, that’s hundreds of dollars every year.
  • The Long Tail: That surcharge doesn’t go away quickly. As Insurify mentions, a ticket can stay on your record and affect your rates for three to five years. A single mistake can cost you over a thousand dollars in the long run.
  • The Point System: In states like Virginia and South Carolina, you also accumulate demerit points. Rack up enough points, and you face license suspension, massive fines, and the requirement to carry expensive SR-22 insurance.

🚦 Outsmarting the System (Legally!): Expert Tips to Avoid Traffic Tickets

You don’t need a radar detector or a lead-lined car to avoid tickets. The best strategies are simple, legal, and rely on being a smarter, more aware driver. Here’s the Car Brands™ guide to keeping your driving record clean and your money in your pocket.

Defensive Driving Demystified: Your Best Defense Against Fines

Defensive driving isn’t about being timid; it’s about being in control. It means anticipating the actions of other drivers and putting yourself in the safest possible position on the road.

  • Maintain a 3-Second Following Distance: Pick a fixed object (like a sign) and watch the car in front of you pass it. You should be able to count “one-one-thousand, two-one-thousand, three-one-thousand” before you pass the same object. This gives you time to react.
  • Scan Ahead: Don’t just look at the car in front of you. Look 10-15 seconds down the road. See those brake lights flashing three cars ahead? You can start to slow down smoothly instead of slamming on your brakes.
  • Check Your Mirrors: Be aware of who is around you at all times. This helps you avoid cutting someone off and spot an approaching police car long before it’s right behind you.
  • Take a Course: Seriously. A certified defensive driving course can often dismiss a ticket or, in many cases, provide a discount on your insurance. It’s a win-win.

Understanding Local Laws and Speed Limits: Knowledge is Power

Every state is a little different. Before a road trip, take two minutes to look up the traffic laws of the states you’ll be passing through.

  • Know the “Reckless” Threshold: As we saw with Virginia, some states have specific speeds that automatically escalate a ticket to a criminal charge. Know that number.
  • “Move Over” Laws: Every state has a law requiring you to slow down and/or move over a lane for stopped emergency vehicles. This is a huge source of tickets for unaware drivers.
  • Right on Red: Is it allowed? Do you have to come to a complete stop first? (✅ Yes, you always do!)
  • Construction Zones: Fines are almost always doubled in construction zones. Pay extra attention. The IIHS provides a great overview of speed limit laws by state.

Vehicle Maintenance and Compliance Checks: Don’t Give Them a Reason

Don’t hand an officer a reason to pull you over on a silver platter. A simple pre-trip walk-around can save you a major headache.

  • Lights: Check your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. A burnt-out bulb is one of the most common reasons for a traffic stop.
  • License Plate: Is it securely mounted? Is the registration sticker up to date? Is the plate light working?
  • Windows: Check your local laws on window tint. A tint that’s too dark is an easy and obvious violation.
  • Inspection: If your state requires an annual safety or emissions inspection (like the system in New York), make sure your sticker is current. An expired sticker is a guaranteed stop.

✅ Conclusion: Driving Smarter, Not Just Faster, Across America

So, what have we learned on this ticket-filled journey? The “most ticketed car” title isn’t reserved for exotic supercars but rather for affordable, sporty models like the Subaru BRZ and Hyundai Genesis Coupe, beloved by drivers who crave excitement but sometimes forget the speed limits. Meanwhile, states like Ohio and Virginia lead the pack in enforcement intensity, reminding us that where you drive can be just as important as what you drive.

But here’s the kicker: it’s not just the car or the state—it’s the driver. Your habits, awareness, and respect for local laws make all the difference between a clean record and a costly citation. The color of your car? Mostly a myth when it comes to tickets. The real ticket magnets are behaviors and choices behind the wheel.

If you’re eyeing one of these sporty rides, don’t let the ticket stats scare you off. Instead, embrace responsible driving, stay informed about local laws, and keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. That way, you can enjoy the thrill of the drive without the sting of a ticket.

Remember Dave’s story? Even the most cautious drivers can get snagged by minor infractions. So, stay sharp, drive smart, and keep your eyes on the road—not the rearview mirror.

Ready to explore some of the most talked-about cars in our ticketing saga? Check out these links to browse, compare, and maybe even snag your next ride—just remember to keep it legal! 🚗💨

❓ FAQ: Burning Questions About Tickets, Cars, and the Law

What are the most ticketed cars in the United States?

The most ticketed cars tend to be affordable, sporty models that attract enthusiastic drivers. According to a comprehensive Insurify study, the Subaru BRZ tops the list, with nearly 24% of its drivers having at least one speeding ticket. Other frequent offenders include the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, Volkswagen GTI, and Subaru WRX. These cars combine performance with accessibility, making them popular among younger drivers who statistically receive more citations.

Which states have the strictest traffic laws and highest ticket rates?

States like Ohio, Virginia, and Iowa lead in ticket rates, with Ohio topping the list at 16.1% of drivers having speeding tickets on record (RateGenius). Virginia is known for its strict enforcement, including criminal misdemeanor charges for driving 20 mph over the limit or above 85 mph anywhere. Enforcement intensity varies by state, influenced by local laws, road conditions, and law enforcement priorities.

What are the most common traffic violations that lead to tickets in each state?

Speeding is the most common violation nationwide, but other frequent reasons include:

  • Expired or missing vehicle registration and inspection stickers
  • Equipment violations (e.g., broken taillights, illegal window tint)
  • Reckless or aggressive driving behaviors
  • Failure to obey traffic control devices (stop signs, signals)
  • Moving violations like unsafe lane changes and tailgating

Some states have unique enforcement focuses, such as South Carolina’s points system or Colorado’s misdemeanor charges for excessive speeding.

Do certain car models get ticketed more frequently than others?

Yes, but it’s often tied to the driver demographic rather than the car itself. Sporty, affordable cars like the Subaru BRZ or Hyundai Genesis Coupe attract younger drivers who statistically receive more tickets. Conversely, popular economy cars like the Chevrolet Cruze or Toyota Yaris also appear on ticket lists due to their prevalence among younger or less experienced drivers. The vehicle’s performance capability, driver behavior, and popularity all interplay here.

How do traffic ticket rates vary by region and urban vs rural areas?

Ticket rates tend to be higher in states with more aggressive enforcement policies and in urban areas with dense traffic and lower speed limits. However, rural areas with long, straight highways (like Nebraska or Wyoming) see high-speed violations due to the temptation of open roads. Enforcement can be stricter in construction zones or school zones regardless of urban or rural setting.

Are there any states that have specific laws or regulations targeting certain types of vehicles?

Yes. For example:

  • Virginia treats speeds over 85 mph or 20 mph above the limit as reckless driving, a criminal offense.
  • Some states have enhanced penalties for commercial vehicles or trucks exceeding speed limits.
  • Window tint laws vary widely, with some states enforcing strict limits that can lead to tickets if violated.
  • Construction zones often have doubled fines and stricter enforcement nationwide.

Can the color of a car affect the likelihood of getting a ticket in different states?

While many believe red cars attract more tickets, studies show that the most-ticketed car colors are simply the most common ones: white, black, silver, and gray. The likelihood of getting a ticket is more a function of how many cars of a certain color are on the road rather than the color itself. For a deep dive, check out our article on What Color Car Gets the Most Speeding Tickets?.

We hope this deep dive into the most ticketed cars by state has helped you understand the complex dance between driver, vehicle, and law enforcement. Now, go forth and drive smart—your wallet and your record will thank you! 🚗💨

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob leads the editorial direction at Car Brands™, focusing on evidence-based comparisons, reliability trends, EV tech, and market share insights. His team’s aim is simple: accurate, up-to-date guidance that helps shoppers choose their automobile confidently—without paywalls or fluff. Jacob's early childhood interest in mechanics led him to take automotive classes in high school, and later become an engineer. Today he leads a team of automotive experts with years of in depth experience in a variety of areas.

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