by Key Changes for Drivers and Road Users
As the new year approaches, a series of new laws aimed at drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and even autonomous vehicles are coming into effect in California. The state’s highway patrol has already warned residents that the rules will begin to take effect from January 1, 2026, so everyone behind the wheel or on the road should be attentive.
Pilot Program for Automatic Violation Recording
One of the most significant innovations will be a pilot program that will allow the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to install radar or laser speed control systems in highway work zones. These systems will be able to automatically photograph license plates and send fines to registered vehicle owners, with proper appeal procedures.
Reduction of Speed Limits
There will also be changes regarding speed limits. Caltrans will gain the authority to reduce the speed limit on highways by 5 mph, with only warnings issued during the first 30 days. In school zones, local authorities will be able to lower the limit from 25 to 20 mph, and this change will be in effect until 2031, after which the lower speed will automatically apply everywhere where appropriate signs are installed.
Speed limits are also becoming more flexible. Caltrans will have permission to lower the posted speed on highways by 5 mph, with warning citations issued during the first 30 days.
Expansion of the “Slow Down, Move Over” Rule
The state’s “Slow Down, Move Over” law is also being expanded. From now on, drivers will be required to change lanes or reduce speed not only for emergency vehicles but for any vehicle stopped with its hazard lights or warning devices activated. This applies, for example, to repair trucks, placed cones, triangles, or pyrotechnic signals. This step aligns with the practice already implemented by several other states.
New Requirements for Electromobility
The electromobility sector will undergo some of the biggest changes, which is not surprising given its growing popularity. Starting in 2026, all electric bicycles will be required to be equipped with a rear red reflector or a red light that operates 24/7, not just at night. The Highway Patrol’s online safety course will now be recognized as training for minors who received a citation for helmet rule violations.
Furthermore, off-highway electric motorcycles (or “eMotos,” as they are called in California) have now received an official definition and are classified as off-highway vehicles. This means mandatory helmet use, registration with the DMV, and compliance with existing rules for such vehicles. Law enforcement will also gain new powers to impound certain electric vehicles for at least 48 hours, particularly unlicensed high-speed electric bicycles or class 3 electric bicycles operated by persons under 16.
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Also, beginning in 2026, all electric bicycles, electric mobility devices, and lithium-ion batteries sold in California must comply with accredited safety standards and have appropriate labeling. Starting in 2028, the same requirement will extend to the rental of such equipment.
Requirements for Autonomous Vehicles
Autonomous vehicle manufacturers will also not escape increased oversight. After the DMV completes the development of regulations, police will be able to issue official notices of non-compliance directly to autonomous vehicle manufacturers. By July 1, 2026, fully driverless cars must be equipped with two-way communication systems for emergency services. It will be interesting to see how many fines companies like Waymo receive in the new year.
These legislative changes reflect a comprehensive approach to road safety that is evolving alongside technology. The implementation of automatic violation recording systems could significantly change driver behavior in risk zones, such as roadwork areas. Simultaneously, clear regulation of electric transport and batteries aims to prevent new types of accidents and fires, the risk of which has increased with the mass adoption of these vehicles. The expansion of rules to autonomous cars shows that legislators are trying to keep up with innovation, ensuring manufacturer accountability. Collectively, these laws are shaping a new, more technologically oriented traffic environment in the country’s largest state.
