DMVZoneBlogCalifornia's base speeding fines are only $35, $70 and $100, but state and county penalty assessments add several times that. Going over 100 mph can bring a $500 base fine and a license suspension.
The base fine for speeding in California is $35 for 1 to 15 mph over, $70 for 16 to 25, and $100 for 26 or more. Penalty assessments and fees are added on top, so the total is usually five to seven times the base fine. Driving over 100 mph has a base fine up to $500 and a possible 30-day suspension.
California's base fines have barely moved in years. What grew is everything stacked on top: state penalty assessments, county assessments, court construction fees, DNA and emergency medical funds. Your courtesy notice lists the full amount.
| Speed | Base fine | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 15 mph over | $35 | 1 |
| 16 to 25 mph over | $70 | 1 |
| 26+ mph over | $100 | 1 |
| Over 100 mph, first time | Up to $500 | Up to 30-day suspension |
| Over 100 mph, second in 3 years | Up to $750 | 6-month suspension |
| Over 100 mph, third in 5 years | Up to $1,000 | 1-year suspension |
If you also choose traffic school, the court adds its administrative fee and the school charges for the course. Many drivers still find it cheaper than three years of higher insurance.
Cannot afford it? California courts can lower fines based on ability to pay, and many offer payment plans. Ask before the due date, not after.
What is the California base fine for 20 mph over the limit?
Answer: B. 16 to 25 mph over is a $70 base fine.
About how much bigger is the total than the base fine?
Answer: C. Assessments and fees usually bring the total to five to seven times the base fine.
What can a first over-100-mph ticket bring besides the fine?
Answer: B. The court can suspend your license for up to 30 days.
Yes, a speeding conviction is 1 point, unless you complete traffic school for an eligible ticket.
In the pilot cities, $50 to $500 depending on speed, with no points.
On the courtesy notice the court mails you, or on your county court's traffic website.
Checked against these pages on November 12, 2026. Laws change, so open the source before you rely on a number.
Rules and fees change. Always confirm the details with the official California DMV or motor vehicle agency before you act. DMVZone practice questions are written to teach the rules and are not copies of the real test.
Most California tickets are 1 point, and DUI or hit-and-run is 2. Reach 4 points in 12 months, 6 in 24 or 8 in 36 and the DMV puts you on a year of probation with a six-month suspension.
A state pilot law, AB 645, lets six California cities use speed cameras. San Francisco started ticketing in August 2025. Fines run $50 to $500, mailed to the car's owner, with no points.
California courts let eligible drivers take traffic school for one 1-point ticket every 18 months. You pay the fine plus a court fee, finish an approved course, and the conviction stays confidential.