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California adds numerous state and county penalty assessments on top of the base fine. These include a state penalty ($10 per $10 of base fine), court operations assessment ($40), conviction assessment ($35), DNA ID fund ($4), night court assessment ($1), and others. A $100 base fine typically results in a total of $490–$550 after all assessments.

Unpaid fines lead to a driver's licence suspension in most states. Additional late fees and civil assessment fees are typically added. In California, a $300 civil assessment is added 21 days after a missed payment. Some states refer unpaid fines to collections. Many courts offer payment plans — contact the court before the due date to request one.

Generally no. Traffic fines are penalties and are not deductible for federal income tax purposes, even if incurred while driving for business. However, if a professional driver (trucker, courier) pays a fine while on duty, some states allow a partial business expense treatment under state rules — consult a tax professional.