As laws are constantly changing, it’s essential for California drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to stay up to date on important legislative changes that could impact their daily lives. From cutting-edge advancements in automotive technology to consumer protections in the car buying process, California's 2026 traffic laws reflect the state's ongoing efforts to improve road safety, support sustainable transportation, and hold negligent drivers accountable. Below are the most important new California traffic laws drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians should know in 2026.
1. AB 630 – Addressing Abandoned RVs
Los Angeles and Alameda counties now have expanded authority to remove and dispose of abandoned or inoperable recreational vehicles (RVs) valued under $4,000 (up from the prior $500 threshold).
This authority is time-limited and expires on January 1, 2030. Before removal, a public agency must verify that the RV is inoperable.
The change is designed to mitigate public health and safety hazards associated with RVs left on streets or vacant lots, and it streamlines abatement procedures for local agencies in these two counties.
2. SB 480 – Marker Lamps for Autonomous Vehicles
California now permits autonomous vehicles to be equipped with special Automated Driving System (ADS) marker lamps that emit a unique color to signal when the vehicle is operating in autonomous mode. These marker lamps are intended to improve transparency and road awareness for other drivers, pedestrians, and law enforcement, fitting within California's broader AV regulatory framework
3. SB 720 – Automated Red-Light Enforcement
Under the Safer Streets Act, cities and counties may implement new automated camera programs to enforce red-light violations. Violations remain civil infractions (not criminal offenses), consistent with existing treatment of camera-enforced violations.
Jurisdictions deploying these systems are required to provide public notice about where and when the systems will be used, and many programs include an initial warning-notice period before issuing violations. The goal is to reduce intersection collisions while maintaining due process safeguards.
4. SB 766 – CARS Act: Combating Auto Retail Scams
This landmark consumer protection law grants California used-car buyers a three-day right to return a purchased used vehicle. It also mandates upfront pricing transparency and prohibits deceptive add-ons (for example, selling oil changes for electric vehicles). These provisions target common dealership sales tactics and give buyers a short 'cooling-off' period.
5. SB 506 – Easier Duplicate Driver’s Licenses
California drivers who move can now request a duplicate driver's license from the DMV solely to update their address. Previously, duplicate licenses were allowed only if the original was lost, destroyed, or mutilated.
This change simplifies compliance with address-update requirements and reduces barriers to maintaining accurate DMV records.
6. AB 544 – New E-Bike Safety Rules
California's e-bike safety rules now require all e-bikes to be equipped at all times with a rear red reflector or a solid or flashing red light with a built-in reflector, visible from 500 feet. This expands the prior rule, which required such equipment only during darkness.
For minors cited for not wearing a helmet, the law allows them to clear their record by completing a California Highway Patrol (CHP)-approved online safety course.
In addition, several counties have implemented age restrictions for certain e-bike classes as part of 2026 safety initiatives (e.g., Marin County restricting class 2 e-bikes for riders under 16; San Diego County restricting class 1 and 2 e-bikes for riders under 12), with pilot programs running through January 1, 2029.
7. AB 366 – Expanded Ignition Interlock Requirements
The Ignition Interlock Device (IID) program has been extended and clarified. While judges may order an IID as a condition of probation for first-time DUI convictions, IIDs are required for second and subsequent offenses.
The system requires drivers to pass a breathalyzer test before the vehicle will start, reducing the likelihood of repeat impaired driving during the probationary period.
8. AB 486 – Key Programming Devices Now Regulated
Possessing key-programming devices or signal extenders with the intent to commit burglary is now a misdemeanor offense. This law targets tech-enabled car thefts by criminalizing the tools commonly used to bypass modern vehicle immobilizers and keyless entry systems.
9. AB 1299 – Parking Ticket Reforms
Local governments may now reduce or waive parking fines for individuals who demonstrate financial hardship, and payment plans must be made available upon request. This reform addresses equity concerns and helps prevent escalating penalties for low-income drivers.
10. AB 382 – Slower Speeds in School Zones
To enhance pedestrian safety, particularly for children, this law allows local authorities to reduce school zone speed limits from 25 mph to 20 mph. Lower speed limits in school zones are a proven measure to reduce severe injuries and fatalities involving child pedestrians.
11. AB 390 – Expanded “Slow Down, Move Over” Law
California drivers must now slow down or change lanes for any stationary vehicle displaying hazard lights, not just emergency responders or tow trucks. This expansion promotes broader roadside safety, including for disabled vehicles and service cars stopped on or near the roadway.
12. AB 1085 – License Plate Obstruction Ban
It is now an infraction to manufacture, sell, or use products or devices that obscure or interfere with the visual or electronic reading of a license plate in California. Manufacturers and sellers can face fines up to $1,000 per item; drivers caught using such devices can face fines of $250 per violation.
While existing law already prohibits altering plates to prevent capture, this update specifically targets illegal plate covers and reflective coatings used to evade tolls and traffic enforcement.
13. SB 586 – Classifying Off-Highway Electric Motorcycles
Off-highway electric motorcycles (eMotos) are now formally classified as off-highway vehicles (OHVs), making them subject to DMV registration and other existing OHV regulations.
This classification clarifies compliance obligations for owners and operators of eMotos used off public roadways.
14. AB 1087 – Tougher Penalties for Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated
Probation terms for vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated have been extended from a maximum of one or two years to three to five years. This change brings probation periods for these offenses into alignment with DUI probation standards and increases accountability for impaired drivers who cause fatalities.
Staying Safe and Informed on California Roads
These new laws represent a blend of consumer protections, technological advancements, and renewed commitments to road safety. Whether you're driving an e-bike, buying a used car, or sharing the road with autonomous vehicles, it's crucial to stay informed and adapt to the changes. For authoritative updates, you can also reference the California DMV's annual "New Laws" summary and the California Highway Patrol's public safety law highlights.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a traffic violation, distracted driver, or unsafe roadway condition, reach out to the skilled and experienced team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. Call (619) 864-7101 for a free case consultation.
Stay safe out there, California!