Free Tool · All 58 California Counties
California Speeding Ticket Calculator
How much will your speeding ticket actually cost? Enter your speed, the posted limit, and your county to see the total fine with surcharges and the long-term insurance impact.
Enter Your Speeding Details
We calculate your fine based on how far over the limit you were cited.
This calculator provides estimates based on publicly available California penalty assessment schedules and county surcharge data. Actual fines may vary depending on your specific citation, court, and circumstances. Insurance impact estimates are based on statewide averages and may differ by insurer. This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
How California Speeding Ticket Fines Work
California uses a tiered system for speeding fines. The base fine increases based on how many miles per hour you were traveling over the posted speed limit, and mandatory county surcharges multiply that base fine significantly.
Speeding Fine Brackets
| MPH Over Limit | Base Fine | Typical Total | DMV Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–15 mph | ~$35 | ~$238 | 1 point |
| 16–25 mph | ~$70 | ~$367 | 1 point |
| 26+ mph | ~$100 | ~$490 | 1 point |
| Over 100 mph | $900+ | $2,500+ | 2 points |
CVC §22350 — Basic Speed Law
Most speeding tickets in California are issued under CVC §22350, the Basic Speed Law, which requires drivers to travel at a speed that is reasonable and prudent for current conditions. This is distinct from absolute speed limit violations under CVC §22349, which applies to exceeding the maximum 65 mph or 70 mph freeway limits.
Over 100 mph — CVC §22348(b)
Exceeding 100 mph is treated as a separate, more serious violation under CVC §22348(b). The minimum fine is $900, a mandatory court appearance is required (Trial by Written Declaration is not available), and the court may suspend your license for 30 days on a first offense or up to six months for a repeat offense.
Contesting a Speeding Ticket
For most speeding violations (under 100 mph), California law provides the right to contest by mail through a Trial by Written Declaration under CVC §40902. This process is risk-free — if the judge rules against you, your bail deposit is applied to the fine, the same as paying the ticket. Common defenses include radar calibration issues, officer positioning, speed survey requirements, and traffic flow arguments.