According to statistics from the CA DMV in their recent Press Release, the New FAST program focuses on reducing crashes through early intervention of drivers traveling more than 100 mph on California Highways, dated 22 December 2025:
“Each month, CHP officers issue citations to approximately 1,600 individuals for driving 100 mph or faster. In 2024, CHP issued more than 18,000 of these citations. In May, the CHP deployed 100 low-profile, specially marked patrol vehicles(SMPVs) to target what officers describe as ‘video game-styled’ driving on California’s highways.”
Which Five California Counties Had the Most 100+ MPH Speeding Tickets in 2025?
News reports and state agencies indicate that counties with large urban areas and major interstate highways tend to have the highest numbers of severe speeding incidents and related fatalities due to higher traffic volumes and long stretches of freeway.
Based on general trends and traffic data, the counties with the most 100+ mph speeding tickets likely include:
- Los Angeles County: Home to major freeways (I-5, I-10, I-405) and high population density, it consistently reports the highest numbers of traffic fatalities and enforcement actions in the state.
- San Bernardino County: This county contains large stretches of major interstates like I-15 and I-10, known for high speeds and a high number of speed-related deaths.
- Riverside County: Similar to San Bernardino, it has significant freeway systems (I-10, I-15, I-215) and is a key connector in Southern California, contributing to many high-speed incidents.
- San Diego County: A major border county with extensive highway systems (I-5, I-8, I-15), it experiences high traffic volumes and associated speeding issues.
- Merced County/Central Valley: Interstate 5 (I-5), also known as the West Side Freeway in this region, is a common location for 100 mph citations due to its long, flat, and straight nature, which encourages excessive speed.
While specific numbers per county are not published, these regions are consistently highlighted in news and official reports as areas of major concern for excessive speeding and 100+ mph speeding tickets.
Just over a month into the program and we already have clients fighting DMV referrals from San Bernardino, Madera, Kern, Merced, and Kings County.
Since we are already representing defendants with over 100 MPH DMV referrals here, let’s take a look at Merced County in Central Valley.
The CHP & DMV Initiate the FAST Program
Dealing with 100+ mph speeding tickets on I-5 requires immediate professional action. The CHP and DMV recently launched the Forwarded Actions for Speeding Tickets (FAST) pilot program in California.
The goal is to remove dangerous drivers from California roads quickly.
This program will impact drivers caught at 100+ mph speeding levels near Los Banos or Merced in Merced County with suspensions and revocations.
Law enforcement now automatically refers these tickets to the DMV Driver Safety Branch according to the FAST press release. This referral happens instantly, regardless of the driver’s prior driving record or if the driver has been convicted.
We understand how a sudden license suspension can disrupt your entire life. Our team is ready to help you navigate this new administrative hurdle and protect your rights.
How the FAST Program Could Impact Your Driving Privileges
The DMV can now suspend your license before you go to traffic court.
This administrative action is independent of any judicial proceedings or criminal convictions. It represents a major shift in how California handles high-speed (100+ mph) citations.
A 100+ mph speeding allegation allegedly triggers an immediate review by DMV Driver Safety officers. They may revoke your driving privileges based solely on the officer’s report. This "swift and certain" consequence aims to reduce fatal accidents on I-5.
We respect the safety mission of the CHP and the DMV. However, these auto-set hearings may bypass traditional due process protections. You must act fast to protect your right to drive in Merced.
Immediate Steps for Ticketed Drivers
If you receive a speeding ticket 100 mph or over, you must follow these three steps immediately:
1.Ensure your current mailing address is correctly filed with the DMV. To check your address on record with the CA DMV, log into My DMV account or my.dmv.ca.gov, or call 1-800-777-0133 for help with an address correction.
- Regularly check your mailbox for official hearing notifications or date assignments.
- Contact a California traffic attorney for legal advice on your situation immediately. We can advise you/represent you during the DMV hearing and at trial.
The DMV is currently auto-setting hearing dates to manage the high volume, often without the driver’s input.
Missing a hearing date could lead to an automatic license suspension. We can help you request a stay and prepare your defense.
Constitutional Concerns and Your Rights
Some legal experts view this program as a form of extra-judicial punishment.
It may have bypassed the standard legislative approval usually required for such pilot programs with significant penalties. This unilateral move may eventually reach the California Supreme Court for review.
We believe every driver deserves the benefit of a full legal trial. Your rights under the California Constitution must remain protected at all times. Our firm stands ready to challenge these administrative actions on your behalf.
Consult Bigger & Harman About a 100+ MPH Speeding Ticket in Merced County
Drivers should consult a traffic attorney about keeping their license and driving privilege. Our team understands the specific procedures of the FAST Program, and 100+ mph speeding trials at the Merced or Los Banos Courthouse.
A 100+ mph speeding conviction carries a heavy fine between $859 and $2,137 and two NOTS points that will remain on your driving record for up to seven years, which could increase your insurance premium by 100% or more.
Call Bigger & Harman, APC at (661) 349-9300 for a free consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and your future on the road. You can also reach our Spanish-speaking line at 859-1177—se habla Español.
Alternatively, you can use the secure contact form to set up a complimentary consultation, or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
Click here to download a free copy of our eBook, 4 Unknown Consequences of Driving Over 100 MPH.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: What is the Forwarded Actions for Speeding Tickets (FAST) pilot program?
A: It is a joint effort between the CHP and the DMV. It automatically refers 100+ mph speeding cases for immediate safety review, which could result in license suspension/revocation.
Q: Can the DMV take my license without a court conviction?
A: At this time, the FAST program allows administrative action independent of the judicial system. Your license may be suspended before your actual traffic court date occurs.
Q: Where do Merced County DMV safety hearings take place?
A: Hearings are handled by the DMV Driver Safety Branch in-person, via video, or Zoom meetings. We can represent you during these meetings to argue against a suspension/revocation.
References:
CA VC Section 22348, Speed Laws.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2026.
The CA DMV News Release dated 22 December 2025, New FAST program focuses on reducing crashes through early intervention of drivers traveling more than 100 mph on California Highways.