Who is authorized to issue a citation for traffic violations in Texas?

In Texas, the authority to issue citations for traffic violations is granted specifically to peace officers, which includes local police and state troopers. These law enforcement officials are trained and empowered to enforce traffic laws, investigate traffic incidents, and ensure public safety on the roads.

When peace officers observe a traffic violation, they are legally allowed to issue citations to violators as part of their duties. Their training equips them to handle various situations that may arise during traffic stops, ensuring that the enforcement of laws is conducted appropriately and fairly.

In contrast, private citizens are not authorized to issue citations, as the responsibility of law enforcement falls to trained professionals. Traffic school instructors and county clerks also do not have the authority to issue citations; their roles are focused on education and administrative functions, respectively. Therefore, only peace officers possess the necessary authority and training to enforce traffic laws through citation issuance in Texas.