Hire A Lawyer To Help With NTTA Tickets

Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by Beltz Law Group

NTTA Ticket Defense Attorney

Facing an NTTA Toll Violation? Understanding Your Options and How an Attorney Can Help

The North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) has various methods to collect unpaid tolls, and these collection efforts can quickly escalate from simple invoices to serious consequences like vehicle registration blocks and even criminal citations. Navigating the complexities of these rules can be challenging, but understanding your rights and options is key.

This article will discuss the primary collection methods used by the NTTA and how The Beltz Law Group’s experienced NTTA ticket attorneys can defend against them. If you would like to discuss your specific NTTA case with us, call our office today at 214-321-4105.

Understanding NTTA Collection Methods

The NTTA primarily uses two significant methods to enforce toll collection:

1. Vehicle Registration Blocks (Holds): This is one of the most common and effective collection tools for the NTTA. If you have outstanding tolls and administrative fees, the NTTA can place a “hold” on your vehicle’s registration. This means you will be unable to renew your vehicle’s registration with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) until the outstanding tolls and fees are paid or resolved. This method is often preferred by the NTTA because it directly impacts your ability to legally drive and maintain your vehicle.

2. Citations for Failure to Pay Toll (Criminal Offense): While less common than registration blocks, the NTTA can still issue a Class C Misdemeanor citation for “Failure or Refusal to Pay Toll” under Texas Transportation Code § 366.178. This is a criminal offense, punishable by a fine of up to $250, plus administrative fees and court costs. It’s crucial to understand that receiving such a citation means you are facing a criminal charge in a municipal court, such as Garland Municipal Court, not just a bill.

NTTA Ticket Lawyer

The Process Leading to a Citation (Texas Transportation Code § 366.178)

Texas Transportation Code § 366.178 outlines a specific process the NTTA must follow before it can issue a citation for failure to pay toll. This statute is complex, but the essence is that the NTTA must attempt to collect the debt through a series of notices. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the required steps:

1. Initial Invoice (Invoice by Mail): When a vehicle passes through a toll assessment facility without paying the proper toll (e.g., no TollTag, insufficient funds), the NTTA must send an invoice by first-class mail to the registered owner of the vehicle. This invoice may include multiple tolls and must specify a payment due date (typically 25 days from mailing).

2. First Notice of Nonpayment: If the initial invoice is not paid by the due date, the NTTA sends a “first notice of nonpayment” by first-class mail. This notice requires payment of the unpaid tolls and an administrative fee (not more than $25 for this first notice). This notice must typically be sent within 30-60 days after the invoice due date.

3. Second Notice of Nonpayment: If the first notice of nonpayment is not paid, the NTTA sends a “second notice of nonpayment.” This notice includes the previously unpaid tolls and fees, plus an additional administrative fee of not more than $25 for each unpaid toll included in the notice (not to exceed a total of $200 for this notice).

4. Third Notice of Nonpayment: If the amount in the second notice is not paid, a “third notice of nonpayment” is sent. This notice includes all prior amounts due, plus any third-party collection service fees incurred by the NTTA.

5. Issuance of Citation: Only if the amount in the third notice of nonpayment is not paid by its specified due date can the registered owner be cited for “failure or refusal to pay toll,” subject to a fine of up to $250 for each nonpayment of a toll, in addition to administrative fees and court costs.

Defense to Nonpayment: It’s a defense if the vehicle was stolen before the failure to pay occurred and was reported to law enforcement within a specific timeframe. Lessors (like rental car companies) are generally not liable if they provide the lessee’s information to the NTTA within 30 days of the invoice mailing.

North Texas Tollway Tickets

Why Hire an NTTA Ticket Attorney?

Facing NTTA collection efforts or a criminal citation can be confusing and costly. Our experienced NTTA ticket attorneys are well-versed in Texas Transportation Code § 366.178 and the collection practices of the NTTA. Here’s how we can help:

1. Addressing Registration Blocks: We can work directly with the NTTA to resolve the underlying toll debt and administrative fees, which is the necessary step to lift the registration block on your vehicle. We often negotiate to reduce the administrative fees, which can significantly lower your total bill.

2. Defending Criminal Citations: If you’ve received a citation for “Failure to Pay Toll,” this is a criminal matter in municipal court (e.g., Garland Municipal Court). Our attorneys can:

   • Evaluate Your Case: We will review whether the NTTA followed the precise notice requirements of § 366.178. If they did not, this could be a defense leading to dismissal.
   • Negotiate with the Prosecutor: We will work to achieve the best possible outcome, aiming for dismissals or deferred adjudication to keep the conviction off your permanent criminal record.
   • Represent You in Court: In many cases, we can handle your court appearances on your behalf, saving you time and stress.

3. Reducing Overall Costs: The administrative fees added by the NTTA can quickly multiply, making a seemingly small toll debt incredibly expensive. Our attorneys are often successful in negotiating a reduction of these fees, potentially saving you a significant amount of money beyond the original tolls.

4. Preventing Further Escalation: Ignoring NTTA notices or citations only leads to higher fees, registration blocks, and the persistent threat of a criminal conviction. Hiring an attorney helps proactively manage the situation and prevent further legal and financial complications.

Don’t let NTTA tollway obligations or citations become an overwhelming burden. Take the time to call an experienced NTTA ticket attorney. Let The Beltz Law Group evaluate your case to determine exactly what can be done about the outstanding balance, any registration blocks, and the citation itself.

If you would like to discuss your case with our NTTA ticket lawyers, call us today at 214-321-4105.

Beltz Law Group Ticket, Criminal Defense & Personal Injury Attorneys

See Full Bio

Dallas Garland Farmers Branch Flower Mound Frisco Plano Richardson