How to Fight a Speeding Ticket in Kansas
If you got a speeding ticket in Kansas, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Kansas uses a statewide uniform fine schedule (KSA 8-2118) for speeding infractions: 1–10 mph over = $45; 11–20 mph over = $45 plus $6 per mph over 10 (e.g., 15 mph over = $45 + (5 × $6) = $75); 21–30 mph over = $105 plus $9 per mph over 20 (e.g., 25 mph over = $105 + (5 × $9) = $150); 31 or more mph over = $195 plus $15 per mph over 30 (e.g., 35 mph over = $195 + (5 × $15) = $270).
How to fight a speeding ticket in Kansas, step by step
Decide how to plead
Potentially — through a traffic diversion program offered by some Kansas courts. Kansas courts have discretion to offer diversion for eligible first-time offenders.
Check Kansas's dismissal & mitigation options
Potentially — through a traffic diversion program offered by some Kansas courts. Kansas courts have discretion to offer diversion for eligible first-time offenders.
Request the evidence in your case
Ask the court for the officer's notes and any photos, device records, or calibration logs relied on to issue your speeding citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
Kansas uses a statewide uniform fine schedule (KSA 8-2118) for speeding infractions: 1–10 mph over = $45; 11–20 mph over = $45 plus $6 per mph over 10 (e.g., 15 mph over = $45 + (5 × $6) = $75); 21–30 mph over = $105 plus $9 per mph over 20 (e.g., 25 mph over = $105 + (5 × $9) = $150); 31 or more mph over = $195 plus $15 per mph over 30 (e.g., 35 mph over = $195 + (5 × $15) = $270).
Show up prepared
Kansas uses a statewide uniform fine schedule (KSA 8-2118) for speeding infractions: 1–10 mph over = $45; 11–20 mph over = $45 plus $6 per mph over 10 (e.g., 15 mph over = $45 + (5 × $6) = $75); 21–30 mph over = $105 plus $9 per mph over 20 (e.g., 25 mph over = $105 + (5 × $9) = $150); 31 or more mph over = $195 plus $15 per mph over 30 (e.g., 35 mph over = $195 + (5 × $15) = $270). Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Kansas court date — free
Get a guided prep chat for your exact violation, then a court-ready mock script you can rehearse.
Start my free court prep →Kansas Speeding ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the statute for speeding in Kansas?
KSA 8-1557 through 8-1560 govern speed limits in Kansas. Standard limits: 75 mph on interstate highways (some segments 70); 65 mph on two-lane highways; 30 mph in urban/business districts; 20 mph in school zones when children are present. Exceeding the posted speed limit is a traffic infraction for most speeds. Speeding is governed under the uniform fine schedule at KSA 8-2118.
What are the fines for a speeding ticket in Kansas?
Kansas uses a statewide uniform fine schedule (KSA 8-2118) for speeding infractions: 1–10 mph over = $45; 11–20 mph over = $45 plus $6 per mph over 10 (e.g., 15 mph over = $45 + (5 × $6) = $75); 21–30 mph over = $105 plus $9 per mph over 20 (e.g., 25 mph over = $105 + (5 × $9) = $150); 31 or more mph over = $195 plus $15 per mph over 30 (e.g., 35 mph over = $195 + (5 × $15) = $270). All speeding fines are DOUBLED in school zones and road construction zones. These are base fines — court costs and surcharges may increase the total amount owed.
Does Kansas have a points system for speeding tickets?
No. Kansas does NOT maintain a traditional demerit point system for traffic infractions. A speeding ticket appears on your Kansas driving record, but there is no accumulated point total. License consequences arise from: (1) accumulating three or more traffic violations in a 12-month period, (2) conviction of certain specific serious offenses (reckless driving, DUI, etc.), or (3) a court-ordered suspension for specific offenses. The Kansas Division of Vehicles (KDOR) tracks violations on your driving record even without a point system.
Can a speeding ticket be dismissed in Kansas?
Potentially — through a traffic diversion program offered by some Kansas courts. Kansas courts have discretion to offer diversion for eligible first-time offenders. Under a typical diversion: you plead guilty, complete a defensive driving school course (typically 6–8 hours, approved by the court), pay any required diversion fees, and avoid new violations during the diversion period; upon completion, the court dismisses the charge with prejudice. Diversion is NOT a statewide program — each county court decides independently. Eligibility factors: clean driving record, minor violation (not DUI or major offense), not a CDL holder. Check with the court on your citation before your court date.
How do I request diversion for a speeding ticket in Kansas?
Step 1: Do NOT pay the fine — paying is a guilty plea and records the conviction. Step 2: Appear in court or contact the court clerk before your appearance date to inquire about diversion availability. Step 3: If diversion is offered, you will typically be required to plead guilty to the offense as a condition of entering diversion. Step 4: Complete the defensive driving school (court-approved) and any other conditions (fees, no new violations). Step 5: Upon completion, the court dismisses the charge with prejudice. Note: CDL holders are generally NOT eligible for diversion for disqualifying offenses — federal law governs CDL records.
Can a speeding ticket affect my license in Kansas?
Kansas has no point system, but three or more traffic violations within a 12-month period can result in license suspension under KSA 8-254 and related statutes. Additionally, excessive speed (30+ mph over the limit) escalates to misdemeanor territory (similar to reckless driving factually, though the specific statute matters). Three or more speeding convictions in 12 months may trigger a habitual violator suspension. Verify current thresholds with the Kansas Division of Vehicles (kdor.ks.gov).
Zigpon is an educational self-help guide, not a law firm — this is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different; verify details with your court or a licensed attorney before acting.