BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced a series of new laws, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2026. These laws aim to improve road safety, strengthen consumer protections, and advance DMV modernization.

Among the key measures is AB 366, which extends the Statewide Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Pilot Program for certain DUI offenders until Jan. 1, 2033. AB 1087 increases the probation term for those convicted of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated to between three and five years.

In an effort to enhance safety in school zones, AB 382 lowers the speed limit from 25 mph to 20 mph starting Jan. 1, 2031. AB 390 expands the “Slow Down, Move Over” requirement to include all stationary vehicles, such as highway maintenance vehicles displaying hazard lights.

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Local governments will be allowed to use automated camera programs to enforce red light violations under SB 720, with violations subject only to civil penalties. AB 1085 makes it an infraction, with a $1,000 fine, to manufacture products that obscure license plates, addressing toll evasion and other criminal activities.

AB 630 authorizes Alameda and Los Angeles Counties to remove abandoned recreational vehicles valued at $4,000 or less until Jan. 1, 2030. SB 480 permits autonomous vehicles to be equipped with marker lamps to indicate when their automated driving systems are activated.

SB 586 classifies off-highway electric motorcycles as off-highway motor vehicles, requiring them to display a DMV-issued ID plate or placard.

The California Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Act, effective Oct. 1, 2026, prohibits dealers from misrepresenting vehicle sales and requires a three-day cancellation right for purchases under $50,000. AB 1272 bans businesses with DMV-issued licenses from using “DMV” in their domain names to prevent consumer confusion.

SB 506 allows individuals to request a duplicate driver’s license after changing their address, while AB 1299 permits local governments to waive or reduce parking penalties for those unable to pay, offering payment plans to prevent financial hardship.

For more information, visit dmv.ca.gov.