Free Tool · All 58 California Counties
California Traffic Ticket Cost Calculator
Your base fine is only part of the story. California adds mandatory county surcharges that multiply the fine by 3.5× to 4.5×. See what your ticket will actually cost — including the insurance impact.
Enter Your Ticket Details
Select your violation and county for an accurate estimate.
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 Traffic Ticket Fines Are Calculated
When you receive a traffic ticket in California, the amount printed on the citation is the base fine — not the total you owe. California law requires courts to add a series of mandatory penalty assessments and surcharges on top of every base fine.
State and County Penalty Assessments
Under Penal Code §1464, Government Code §76000, and related statutes, every traffic fine in California is subject to state penalty assessments, county penalty assessments, court construction surcharges, DNA identification fund assessments, and other mandatory fees. These surcharges typically multiply the base fine by 3.5× to 4.5× depending on your county.
County Variations
Each of California's 58 counties applies a slightly different combination of surcharges. Los Angeles County has the highest effective multiplier at approximately 4.5×, while rural counties like Sierra and Modoc have lower multipliers around 3.5×. The statewide average is approximately 3.8×.
Insurance Impact
Beyond the fine itself, a traffic conviction that adds DMV points to your record can increase your auto insurance premiums for three years. One point typically increases premiums by 20% to 25%, while two points can increase premiums by 40% to 50%. For the average California driver, this can add $1,400 to $3,000 in additional insurance costs over three years.
Trial by Written Declaration
California Vehicle Code §40902 gives every driver the right to contest a traffic ticket by mail through a process called Trial by Written Declaration. This process is risk-free: if the judge rules against you, your bail deposit is applied to your fine — the same outcome as simply paying the ticket. If the judge dismisses the citation, you owe nothing.