How to Fight a Reckless Driving Ticket in Nevada
If you got a reckless driving ticket in Nevada, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. First offense: fine of $250–$1,000 AND 50–99 hours of community service; possible license suspension; 8 demerit points.
How to fight a reckless driving ticket in Nevada, step by step
Decide how to plead
Do NOT pay the fine or plead guilty without consulting a licensed Nevada criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor with serious long-term consequences.
Check Nevada's dismissal & mitigation options
Generally no. The court traffic school reduction (to a non-moving violation) is intended for civil infractions and minor moving violations — not criminal misdemeanor charges like reckless driving.
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 reckless driving citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
First offense: fine of $250–$1,000 AND 50–99 hours of community service; possible license suspension; 8 demerit points.
Show up prepared
Generally no. Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Nevada 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 →Nevada Reckless Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the statute for reckless driving in Nevada?
NRS 484B.653 — Reckless Driving. A person is guilty of reckless driving who drives any vehicle in willful or wanton disregard of the safety of persons or property. This is a criminal misdemeanor. Additional per se triggers: driving 30+ mph over the posted speed limit qualifies as reckless driving under NRS 484B.600.
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Nevada?
Yes. Reckless driving under NRS 484B.653 is a criminal misdemeanor. A conviction creates a criminal record (not just a traffic record), appears on background checks, carries 8 demerit points on your driving record, and can trigger license suspension. This is significantly more serious than a civil traffic infraction.
What are the penalties for reckless driving in Nevada?
First offense: fine of $250–$1,000 AND 50–99 hours of community service; possible license suspension; 8 demerit points. Second offense: fine of $1,000–$1,500 AND 100–199 hours of community service; mandatory license suspension. Third or subsequent offense: fine of $1,500–$2,000 AND at least 200 hours of community service; mandatory license suspension; possible jail. Aggravated reckless driving (50+ mph over the limit, or in a work zone/pedestrian safety zone): elevated to a felony carrying 1–10 years in prison and a $2,000–$5,000 fine.
What should I do if cited for reckless driving in Nevada?
Do NOT pay the fine or plead guilty without consulting a licensed Nevada criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor with serious long-term consequences. An attorney may be able to: (1) negotiate reduction to a civil infraction (such as careless driving or a speeding citation), which eliminates the criminal charge; (2) seek dismissal based on insufficient evidence of willful or wanton disregard; (3) challenge speed measurement if the charge is based on 30+ mph over. Without an attorney, you risk a permanent criminal record, community service, possible jail, and license suspension.
Is the traffic school reduction available for reckless driving in Nevada?
Generally no. The court traffic school reduction (to a non-moving violation) is intended for civil infractions and minor moving violations — not criminal misdemeanor charges like reckless driving. For reckless driving, the path is attorney-negotiated reduction to a lesser offense or a deferred sentencing arrangement. Consult a licensed Nevada attorney for your specific circumstances.
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.