Speeding Over 100 MPH in California (CVC 22348b)
Getting caught going over 100 mph is one of the most serious speeding violations in California. The stakes are high, but so are the reasons to fight it.
CVC 22348(b) Quick Facts
Understanding CVC 22348(b)
California Vehicle Code 22348(b) specifically addresses driving over 100 mph on a highway. It carries enhanced penalties compared to regular speeding because of the increased danger at extreme speeds.
Penalties for First Offense
- Base fine: $500
- Total with fees: Approximately $900-$1,000
- DMV points: 2 points (stays on record 7 years)
- License suspension: Court may suspend for up to 30 days
- Any premium change is set by your insurer, not by the court
Penalties for Second Offense (Within 3 Years)
- Fine: $1,000+ with fees
- License suspension: Court may suspend for up to 6 months
- Points: 2 additional points
Penalties for Third Offense (Within 5 Years)
- License suspension: Court may suspend for up to 1 year
- Possible "negligent operator" status
Important: Traffic school is NOT available for CVC 22348(b). The 2 points cannot be masked. This makes fighting the ticket even more important.
Why You Should Fight This Ticket
With no traffic school option, a conviction means:
- 2 points on your record for 7 years (not 3)
- Any premium change is set by your insurer, not by the court
- Possible license suspension
- $900+ in immediate costs
Even reducing the charge to regular speeding (1 point, 3 years) can save thousands.
Defense Strategies
1. Challenge the Speed Measurement
At 100+ mph, even small measurement errors matter:
- Radar/LIDAR calibration must be current and documented
- Officer must be properly certified
- Distance and angle affect accuracy
- If you were clocked at 101-102 mph, margin of error may put you under 100
2. Request Reduction to Standard Speeding
Sometimes prosecutors will agree to reduce the charge to CVC 22349 (regular speeding over 65), which means:
- 1 point instead of 2
- 3 years on record instead of 7
- Traffic school eligibility
- Lower fine
3. Challenge the "Highway" Designation
CVC 22348(b) applies specifically to highways. If the road doesn't meet the legal definition of a highway, the enhanced penalties may not apply.
4. Speed Survey Defense
If radar was used on a road requiring a speed survey, and the survey is expired, the radar evidence may be inadmissible, even for 100+ mph.
5. Trial by Written Declaration
Even for serious violations, TBWD can work. The officer must still submit written testimony, and many don't, especially for tickets that seem "open and shut."
Fight Your 100+ MPH Ticket for $49
With this much at stake, fight it. TicketFight AI generates a professional defense targeting the specific weaknesses in your case.
- Challenges speed measurement accuracy
- No court appearance required
- 100% money-back guarantee if not dismissed
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Will I definitely lose my license?
No. License suspension is discretionary, not automatic. Judges consider factors like your driving history, the circumstances, and whether you show remorse. A clean record and good presentation can help avoid suspension.
Should I hire a lawyer for this?
Consider it if you're facing license suspension or have prior violations. For a first offense with a clean record, Trial by Written Declaration may be sufficient. Start with TicketFight and escalate to an attorney if needed for Trial de Novo.
What if I was going way over 100 (like 120+)?
The penalty is the same whether you were going 101 or 150 mph. Either way it is CVC 22348(b). However, judges may be less lenient with extreme speeds. Still worth fighting, as reducing to standard speeding saves significant money.
Can this become a reckless driving charge?
Speed alone isn't reckless driving. However, if combined with weaving, racing, or other dangerous behavior, you could face additional charges. A standalone 100+ mph ticket is still an infraction.
What happens if you get caught going over 100 mph in California?
The 2026 schedule lists CVC 22348(b) at a $200 base and $896 total with 2 DMV points. A first offence can carry a license suspension, and many courts require a personal appearance. Check the DMV for how long a 2-point conviction stays on your record. There is no single premium increase that applies to every driver: insurers file their own rating plans and price a conviction differently. Ask your insurer or broker what this violation would do to your policy.
Will I lose my license for going over 100 mph?
Possibly. The court MAY suspend your license for up to 30 days for a first offense, or up to 6 months for a second offense within 3 years. Suspension isn't automatic but is at the judge's discretion.
Can I go to traffic school for a 100+ mph ticket?
No. CVC 22348(b) violations are not eligible for traffic school in California. The 2 points will appear on your record for 7 years, making it essential to fight the ticket if possible.
Is going over 100 mph a misdemeanor in California?
No, it's an infraction. However, it's treated more seriously than regular speeding with enhanced penalties. It can be elevated to reckless driving (misdemeanor) if combined with dangerous behavior.