California Vehicle Code 22400 prohibits driving so slowly that you impede or block the normal flow of traffic, unless a reduced speed is necessary for safe operation, required by a grade, or compelled by law. While most traffic citations involve going too fast, VC 22400 targets the opposite problem: driving so slowly on a highway that you create a hazard for following traffic. It carries 1 DMV point.
No person shall drive upon a highway at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, unless the reduced speed is necessary for safe operation, because of a grade, or in compliance with law.
(b)
When the Department of Transportation or local authority determines on the basis of an engineering and traffic survey that slow speeds on a highway impede the normal movement of traffic, the Department of Transportation or local authority may determine and declare a minimum speed limit below which no person shall drive a vehicle, except when necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law, when appropriate signs giving notice thereof are erected upon the highway.
Amended by Stats. 1963, Ch. 2149. Effective September 20, 1963.
Fine & Penalty Amounts
Estimated totals include all mandatory state and county penalty assessments. Actual amounts vary by county court.
Violation Range
Est. Total with Assessments
Notes
Impeding traffic (standard)
~$490
Standard 1-point moving violation fine schedule.
The base fine of $238 applies to a standard VC 22400 infraction. After California's mandatory penalty assessments, the total typically reaches approximately $490. Exact amounts vary by county.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions drivers search for after receiving this citation.
California Vehicle Code 22400 prohibits driving so slowly that you impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. It is sometimes called the minimum speed law. It most commonly applies on freeways or multi-lane highways where traveling far below the flow of traffic creates a hazard for other drivers.
Yes. The statute specifically exempts driving slowly when it is necessary for safe operation, required by a grade, or required by law. Defenses include arguing that your reduced speed was necessary due to mechanical problems, adverse road conditions, traffic congestion ahead, or compliance with another traffic law. The officer must establish that your speed actually impeded the normal flow of traffic.
The base fine is $238. After California's mandatory penalty assessments, the total typically reaches approximately $490. The exact amount varies by county.
Yes. A conviction under VC 22400 adds 1 point to your California DMV driving record for 36 months from the violation date.
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