DPS Boosts Enforcement for Spring Break and St. Patrick's Day

Texas Highway Patrol to target speeding, impaired driving, and other violations during high-traffic periods

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is increasing patrols and enforcement on roads across the state from March 9-17 to ensure safe driving during the busy spring break and St. Patrick's Day travel periods. The Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will be on the lookout for speeding, impaired driving, lack of seatbelt use, and other dangerous behaviors that put lives at risk.

Why it matters

Spring break and St. Patrick's Day are traditionally times when more people are out on the roads, increasing the risk of crashes and other traffic incidents. By boosting enforcement, DPS aims to deter dangerous driving and promote safety during these high-traffic periods.

The details

As part of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), THP will have a heightened presence on interstates and highways across Texas. Last year, DPS' spring break and St. Patrick's Day enforcement efforts resulted in over 93,000 citations and warnings, including for speeding, seatbelt violations, driving without insurance, and felony arrests.

  • The enforcement campaign will run from March 9-17, 2026.
  • Operation CARE is a nationwide traffic enforcement effort that also takes place from March 9-17 each year.

The players

Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)

The state law enforcement agency responsible for highway patrol, driver's license issuance, and other public safety functions in Texas.

Texas Highway Patrol (THP)

A division of the DPS that focuses on traffic enforcement and accident response on Texas roads and highways.

Bryan Rippee

Chief of the Texas Highway Patrol.

International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)

A nonprofit organization that represents law enforcement leaders and promotes best practices in policing.

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What they’re saying

“These are heavy traffic times as people get out to celebrate, but safety must always come first. Our Troopers will be highly visible across the state, focused on preventing impaired driving, speeding and other dangerous behaviors that put lives at risk. We want everyone to enjoy their time with family and friends — and make it home safely.”

— Bryan Rippee, Texas Highway Patrol Chief (kilgorenewsherald.com)

What’s next

DPS will continue the enhanced enforcement efforts statewide throughout the campaign period, with Troopers working to reduce crashes and save lives on Texas roads.

The takeaway

By proactively increasing patrols and enforcement during high-traffic holiday periods, DPS aims to deter dangerous driving behaviors and promote safety on Texas roads, helping ensure all drivers and passengers reach their destinations safely.