Free Tool · 2026 Bail Schedule
California Traffic Ticket Cost Calculator
Your base fine is only part of what you owe. California adds penalty assessments, a 20% surcharge and court fees. Pick your violation to see the total from the Judicial Council's 2026 bail schedule.
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This calculator shows statewide schedule totals for general information only. It is not legal advice, and TicketClear is not a law firm.
How California Traffic Ticket Fines Are Calculated
The amount on your citation is the base fine, not the total you owe. California law adds state and county penalty assessments, a 20% state surcharge and flat court fees to every base fine. The Judicial Council publishes a statewide schedule each year with the total for each violation.
How a $35 base fine becomes $234
Under the 2026 schedule: base fine $35 + state penalty $40 + county penalty $28 + court construction $20 + DNA fund $20 + 20% surcharge $7 + emergency medical services $8 + court operations $40 + conviction assessment $35 + night court $1 = $234.
Penalty assessments are charged per $10 of base fine (or part of $10), but the flat fees add $76 to every ticket. That is why a small fine grows by a bigger share than a large one: there is no single multiplier.
Common totals (2026 schedule, first offense)
| Violation | Base fine | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding, 1–15 mph overVC 22350 | $35 | $234 |
| Speeding, 16–25 mph overVC 22350 | $70 | $363 |
| Speeding, 26+ mph overVC 22350 | $100 | $486 |
| Red lightVC 21453(a) | $100 | $486 |
| Right turn on redVC 21453(b) | $35 | $234 |
| Stop signVC 22450(a) | $35 | $234 |
| Handheld phone (first offense)VC 23123.5(a) | $20 | $158 |
County differences
The schedule totals assume the maximum county penalties. Each court may adjust its schedule to its own county’s assessments, courts without night or weekend sessions leave out the $1 night court fee, and some courts add their own assessments. Penal Code 1463.28 lets 30 counties exceed the totals. Your notice shows the exact amount.
DMV points and insurance
A conviction that adds a DMV point can raise your insurance rates. How much depends on your insurer and your driving record.
Trial by Written Declaration
Vehicle Code §40902 lets you contest a traffic infraction by mail with a Trial by Written Declaration. Courts usually ask you to pay the bail when you file; if you paid bail and the judge rules against you, it is generally applied to the fine, and if the citation is dismissed, it is refunded. If you file online through MyCitations, the court cannot require bail up front unless it makes express findings in your case (Gov. Code 68645.4).
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Most California citations have a 60-day deadline. Write what happened in your own words, then review, edit and sign your declaration.
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