California Speeding Ticket Fine
How much is your California speeding ticket? The fine depends on how fast you were going—but the real cost is much higher than the ticket price alone.
2025 Fine Schedule
Complete California Speeding Fine Schedule
| Speed Over Limit | Base Fine | Total Fine* |
|---|---|---|
| 1-15 mph over | $35 | $238 |
| 16-25 mph over | $70 | $367 |
| 26-99 mph over | $100 | $490 |
| 100+ mph | $500 | $900+ |
*Total includes penalties, assessments, and court fees. Actual amount varies slightly by county.
Why Are California Speeding Tickets So Expensive?
California's base fines are actually quite low—but they're multiplied by mandatory fees:
- State penalty assessment: $10 per $10 of base fine
- County penalty assessment: $7 per $10 of base fine
- Court construction fee: $5 per $10 of base fine
- DNA identification fee: $4 per $10 of base fine
- Emergency services fee: $2 per $10 of base fine
- Additional court fees: Various fixed amounts
This is why a $35 base fine becomes $238—the penalties and assessments multiply it nearly 7x.
The TRUE Cost of a Speeding Ticket
The ticket fine is just the beginning. Here's what a speeding ticket really costs:
| Cost Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ticket fine | $238-$490 |
| Insurance increase (Year 1) | $300-$800 |
| Insurance increase (Year 2) | $300-$800 |
| Insurance increase (Year 3) | $300-$800 |
| Traffic school (optional) | $70-$120 |
| TOTAL TRUE COST | $1,500-$4,000+ |
Avoid the Fine Entirely: Fight for $49
The only way to avoid the fine AND insurance increase is to get your ticket dismissed. TicketFight AI generates a professional defense for $49—a fraction of even the minimum fine.
- If dismissed: $0 fine, 0 points, no insurance increase
- 100% money-back guarantee if not dismissed
- No court appearance required
Special Fine Situations
School Zones
Speeding in school zones during school hours typically doubles the base fine. A $35 base becomes $70, resulting in approximately $367 total.
Construction Zones
California doubles fines in construction zones when workers are present. A $238 ticket becomes approximately $476.
100+ MPH (CVC 22348b)
This is the most expensive speeding ticket: $900+ fine, 2 points (stays 7 years), possible license suspension, and no traffic school eligibility.
Ways to Reduce Your Fine
Fight and Win (Best Option)
If dismissed, you pay zero fine and get your bail refunded. This is the only option that also avoids points and insurance increases.
Ability-to-Pay Request
If you can't afford the fine, you can request a reduction through the court. You'll need to show financial hardship. Note: You still receive points and insurance impacts.
Payment Plan
Courts offer payment plans if you can't pay all at once. This doesn't reduce the total—you still pay the full amount over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I pay more if I was going much faster?
Yes, but in brackets. Going 80 in a 65 (15 over) is the same fine as going 66 in a 65 (1 over)—both are "1-15 mph over." The jump comes at 16+ over, 26+ over, and 100+ mph.
Does traffic school reduce the fine?
No. With traffic school you pay the full fine PLUS traffic school fees and court administrative fee. Traffic school only masks the point from your public record.
Why does my county have different fines?
Counties can add local fees and assessments, so total fines vary slightly. The amounts listed here are statewide averages.
What happens if I don't pay on time?
Missing your deadline adds a "civil assessment" of $300 or more, plus potential license suspension and warrant. Always respond by your deadline—even if just to request an extension.