In California, a moving violation typically results in a fine and points being assessed against your driving record. Eligible drivers, however, can at least avoid the points by completing traffic school. Of course, if you opt to contest a ticket and win, you won’t have to pay a fine or worry about points going on your record.
The fine amounts (called “base fines”) for traffic violations in California are sort of misleading: The amount you actually pay once various fees and assessments are added in is significantly more than the base fine amount. The base fines are generally the same everywhere in the state. But the fees and assessments vary by county. However, the total amount you can expect to pay for a traffic violation is generally about four to eight times the amount of the base fine.
Below are the base fines and other penalties for common traffic violations. However, judges have the power to deviate from these fine amounts, and base fines are often increased if the offender has recent prior convictions. Violations in construction zones also carry enhanced fines.
What Are the Fines & Points for California Speeding Tickets?
Penalties for speeding tickets in California depend primarily on the driver's speed in relation to the speed limit.
California's Three Types of Speed Limits
California has three types of speed limits: absolute, presumed, and basic. However, the penalties for speeding citations—regardless of the type of speed limit the driver violated—correspond to the driver’s speed. (Cal. Veh. Code §§ 22349, 22350, 22352 (2025).)
Penalties for Speed Tickets in California
| Speed | Base Fine | License Suspension | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 to 15 miles per hour over the limit |
$35 |
None |
1 |
|
16 to 25 miles per hour over the limit |
$70 |
None |
1 |
|
At least 16 miles per hour over the limit |
$100 |
None |
1 |
|
Over 100 miles per hour (first offense) |
$200 to $500 |
Up to 30 days |
2 |
|
Over 100 miles per hour (second offense within 3 years) |
$200 to $750 |
6 months |
2 |
|
Over 100 miles per hour (third offense within 5 years) |
$200 to $1,000 |
1 year |
2 |
What Are the Fines & Points Stop Sign and Stop Light Tickets in California
The fines for running a stop sign or red light in California depend on the specifics of the violation.
California's Stop Sign and Traffic Light Rules
At a stop sign or stop light, motorists must come to a complete stop prior to the closest of a limit line, entering a crosswalk, or entering the actual intersection. Right turns on red are allowed so long as the driver makes a complete stop first. The penalties depend on the type of violation. (Cal. Veh. Code §§ 21453, 22450 (2025).)
Penalties for Running a Stop Sign or Red Light in California
| Type of Violation | Base Fine | Points |
|---|---|---|
|
Running straight through a solid or flashing red light |
$100 |
1 |
|
Making an illegal right turn at a red light |
$35 |
1 |
|
Running a stop sign |
$35 |
1 |
What Are the Fines for Distracted Driving in California?
California’s distracted driving laws restrict cell phone and electronic device use and text messaging while driving. The penalties for a distracted driving ticket are the same regardless of the type of violation. (Cal. Veh. Code § 23123.5 (2025).)
| Violation | Base Fine | Points |
|---|---|---|
|
First |
$20 |
0 |
|
Second or subsequent |
$50 |
0 |
What Are the Fines, Jail Time, & Points for Driving Without a License in California?
The penalties for unlicensed driving in California vary greatly depending on the circumstances, including the reason the driver didn't have a valid driver's license.
California's Driver's License Requirement
Generally, all California drivers must have a valid license. Unlicensed driving includes a variety of circumstances such as driving on a suspended or expired license. (Cal. Veh. Code § 12501 (2025).)
Penalties for Driving Without a Valid License in California
| Violation | Base Fine | Points | Jail |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Driving without a valid license (as an infraction) |
$100 to $250 |
0 |
None |
|
Driving without a valid license (as a misdemeanor) |
$100 to $1,000 |
0 |
Up to 6 months |
|
Driving on suspended or revoked not related to driving ability (as an infraction) |
$150 to $250 |
2 |
None |
|
Driving on suspended or revoked not related to driving ability (as a misdemeanor) |
$300 to $1,000 |
2 |
Up to 6 months |
|
Driving on suspended or revoked related to reckless driving (misdemeanor) |
$300 to $1,000 |
2 |
5 days to 6 months |
|
Driving on suspended or revoked related to DUI (misdemeanor) |
$500 to $1,000 |
2 |
10 days to 6 months |
(Cal. Veh. Code §§ 14601, 14601.1, 14601.2, 40000.10 (2025).)