New law: Speed cameras coming to school zones across North Carolina

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Starting this fall, some North Carolina drivers will need to hit the brakes in school zones, or risk getting a ticket in the mail.

As of October 1, 2025, cities and counties across the state will be allowed to install speed cameras in school zones to catch speeding drivers.

The move is part of a new transportation law, Senate Bill 391, signed by Governor Stein on July 1, 2025, aimed at improving road safety.

Here’s what you need to know:

• If you’re speeding in a school zone, a camera may snap a picture of your car. The ticket will include the date, time, your recorded speed, and must be signed by an officer
• A flat $250 fine will be issued, but it won’t add points to your driver’s license
• All camera zones must have clear warning signs posted within 1,000 feet
• You’ll have 30 days to pay or appeal the ticket. If you ignore it, you could be hit with a $50 late fee and may not be able to renew your car registration until it’s paid

Also tucked into SB 391 is a change for drivers dealing with long DMV wait times. If your license expires on or after July 1, 2025, it will now be valid through December 31, 2027, giving you extra time to renew. This doesn’t apply if your license is currently revoked, canceled, or suspended.

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