SACRAMENTO, Calif. (VVNG.com) — The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) are alerting the public to several new laws scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.
These laws, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom following the 2024 legislative session, focus on public safety, vehicle enforcement, pedestrian protections, and consumer transparency.
The CHP and DMV encourage Californians to stay informed and comply with the updated regulations, which aim to improve safety and accountability across the state.
LAWS ANNOUNCED BY THE CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL (CHP)
AB 486 – Possession of Burglary Tools
Makes it a misdemeanor to possess a key programming device, duplicating device, or signal extender with the intent to commit burglary. Violators may face up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.
AB 544 – Electric Bicycle Rear Equipment
Requires electric bicycles to be equipped with a red reflector or a red light with a built-in reflector at all times, not just at night. Also allows minors cited for helmet violations to complete a CHP-developed online safety course to meet educational requirements.
SB 586 – Off-Highway Electric Motorcycles (eMotos)
Defines “off-highway electric motorcycles” and classifies them as off-highway motor vehicles. Operators must wear helmets and display DMV-issued ID plates. The vehicles must:
Be designed for off-road use
Use electric motors
Have no pedals
Include a straddle seat and handlebars
AB 382 – Lowered School Zone Speed Limits
Allows local authorities to reduce speed limits in school zones from 25 to 20 mph by ordinance or resolution through January 1, 2031. After that, the 20 mph limit becomes automatic if signs are posted.
AB 289 – Highway Work Zone Speed Cameras
Authorizes Caltrans to run a speed safety pilot program using fixed or mobile radar or laser systems. Violations are recorded and mailed to registered vehicle owners with procedures in place for appeals and review.
AB 390 – “Slow Down, Move Over” Law Expansion
Expands the law to include any stationary vehicle using hazard lights or warning devices such as cones or flares. Drivers must move to a non-adjacent lane or reduce speed when passing.
AB 1014 – Speed Limit Reductions on State Highways
Allows the Department of Transportation to lower speed limits by 5 mph on state highways. For the first 30 days, only warnings may be issued for violations.
AB 875 – Vehicle Impoundment for Unlicensed Operation
Authorizes officers to impound vehicles with fewer than four wheels that exceed 20 MPH when operated by unlicensed individuals or minors under 16 riding class 3 e-bikes. The impoundment must last at least 48 hours, and a safety course may be required for release.
SB 1271 – E-Bike and Battery Safety Standards
Requires all electric bicycles, powered mobility devices, and related lithium-ion batteries to meet safety standards tested by accredited labs. Compliance labeling will be mandatory. Beginning in 2028, non-compliant devices may not be sold or rented in California.
AB 1777 – Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Enforcement and Communication
Authorizes law enforcement to issue notices of “AV noncompliance” to manufacturers for traffic violations by autonomous vehicles. Starting July 1, 2026, AVs without human drivers must have a two-way communication device for use by first responders.
LAWS ANNOUNCED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES (DMV)
AB 366 – Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Program Extension
Extends California’s IID program for DUI offenders through January 1, 2033. The program requires certain DUI offenders to install a device that prevents a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath.
AB 1087 – Longer Probation for Vehicular Manslaughter
Increases probation for convictions of vehicular manslaughter or gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated from two years to a term between three and five years.
SB 720 – Red Light Camera Enforcement
Allows local jurisdictions to operate automated traffic enforcement systems to issue civil penalties for red-light violations, with strict limitations on data usage and due process procedures.
AB 1085 – License Plate Obstruction Devices
Prohibits the manufacturing of devices or materials designed to obscure or interfere with license plate visibility, including for evading tolls or law enforcement. Violations carry a $1,000 fine.
AB 630 – Abandoned RV Removal (Los Angeles and Alameda Counties)
Grants authority to remove and dispose of abandoned recreational vehicles (valued under $4,000 and confirmed inoperable) in Los Angeles and Alameda Counties through January 1, 2030.
SB 480 – AV Marker Lamps
Allows autonomous vehicles to be equipped with visual marker lamps that indicate when the vehicle’s automated driving system is engaged. This helps inform surrounding drivers and law enforcement.
SB 766 – California Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Act
Effective October 1, 2026, prohibits car dealers from misrepresenting total costs or financing terms of a vehicle sale. Requires dealers to offer buyers a three-day cancellation window for vehicles priced under $50,000.
AB 1272 – Ban on “DMV” in Business Domains
Prohibits businesses licensed by the DMV from using “Department of Motor Vehicles” or “DMV” in their internet domain names, reducing online confusion and impersonation.
SB 506 – Duplicate Driver’s License for Address Changes
Enables drivers to request a duplicate license solely to reflect an address change. Previously, duplicates were issued only for lost, damaged, or name-change-related licenses.
AB 1299 – Reduced Parking Fines for Low-Income Drivers
Allows municipalities to waive or reduce parking penalties for individuals who demonstrate financial hardship. Payment plans must be offered upon request.
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