Texas Truck Lane Restrictions

Which lanes a truck can use in Texas

Texas has no blanket left-lane truck ban. TxDOT or a city can restrict trucks by class to the right two or more lanes on a controlled-access highway with three or more lanes each way (Tex. Transp. Code 545.0651). It only counts where the signs are up. You can still use any lane to pass or to get on and off the highway. Watch for lane-restriction signs on the freeways around Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin. A ticket runs $1 to $200.

Roads, exceptions, and signs

• Where it applies: Controlled-access (limited-access) highways in the designated state highway system with 3+ lanes each way. Posted segments only, not a statewide ban. Most common on urban freeways around Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Austin.
• Signed. The statute says a restriction may not be enforced until the traffic control devices are in place. Look for lane-designation and 'trucks use right lanes' signs.
• General rule: Slower-than-normal traffic must keep right except to pass or turn left (Tex. Transp. Code 545.051).
• Section 545.0651 is enabling authority. The restriction exists only on posted segments, set by TxDOT or city ordinance after a traffic study. Texas assesses no license points.

What a lane violation costs

$1 to $200 (general traffic penalty, Tex. Transp. Code 542.401). Texas has no license points system.

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