New California Traffic Laws for 2026: What Drivers Need to Know
Each year, new legislation impacts California motorists. As of January 1, 2026, several new laws affecting drivers, electric bicycles, work zones, and speed enforcement have taken effect. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has identified the following updates as particularly important for drivers and residents to understand.
At Ticket Snipers, we monitor these legislative changes closely to ensure our clients are fully informed and properly represented.
Assembly Bill 486 – Possession of Key Programming Devices
AB 486 expands existing burglary statutes. It is now a misdemeanor to possess a key programming device, key duplicating device, or signal extender with the intent to commit burglary.
A violation may result in:
Up to six months in county jail
A fine of up to $1,000
Or both
This law broadens the list of tools considered unlawful when possessed with criminal intent.
Assembly Bill 544 – Electric Bicycle Equipment and Training
AB 544 introduces new safety requirements for electric bicycles:
All electric bicycles must now be equipped with a rear red reflector or a solid or flashing red light with a built-in reflector during all hours of operation — not only during darkness.
The CHP-developed online electric bicycle safety and training program may now satisfy the safety course requirement for minors who receive a helmet violation involving an e-bike.
Senate Bill 586 – Off-Highway Electric Motorcycles (eMotos)
SB 586 formally defines “off-highway electric motorcycle” (eMoto) and classifies these vehicles as off-highway motor vehicles (OHVs).
Under this law:
Operators must wear a safety helmet.
Vehicles not registered under the Vehicle Code must display a DMV-issued identification plate or device.
eMotos are subject to the same regulations governing other OHVs.
Assembly Bill 382 – School Zone Speed Limits
AB 382 authorizes local governments to reduce school zone speed limits from 25 mph to 20 mph by ordinance or resolution through January 1, 2031.
After that date, school zone speed limits will automatically decrease to 20 mph wherever proper signage is posted. Drivers should expect increased enforcement in school areas as municipalities implement these reductions.
Assembly Bill 289 – Work Zone Speed Safety Systems
AB 289 authorizes Caltrans to establish a pilot program utilizing automated speed enforcement systems in construction zones.
The program may use fixed or mobile radar or laser systems to:
Detect speeding violations
Capture license plate images
Issue citations to the registered vehicle owner
The law outlines specific procedures for implementation, citation issuance, review, and appeal.
Assembly Bill 390 – Expanded “Slow Down and Move Over” Law
AB 390 expands California’s “slow down and move over” requirements. The law now applies to highway maintenance vehicles and any stationary vehicle displaying flashing hazard lights or warning devices such as cones or flares.
Drivers must:
Change lanes away from the stopped vehicle when possible, or
Reduce speed to a safe level if a lane change is not feasible
Failure to comply may result in citation.
Assembly Bill 1014 – Speed Limit Reductions
AB 1014 authorizes the Department of Transportation to reduce certain highway speed limits by 5 mph.
For the first 30 days after a speed limit reduction, law enforcement must issue warning citations before full enforcement begins.
Assembly Bill 875 – Impound Authority for Certain Electric Vehicles
AB 875 expands law enforcement authority to impound certain vehicles for a minimum of 48 hours under specific circumstances, including:
Electric vehicles with fewer than four wheels that do not meet the definition of an electric bicycle
Vehicles capable of exceeding 20 mph operated by an unlicensed individual
Class 3 electric bicycles operated by individuals under 16 years old
In cases involving minors operating a Class 3 e-bike, completion of a safety course may be required before the vehicle is released.
Senate Bill 1271 – Electric Bicycle and Battery Safety Standards
SB 1271 strengthens safety regulations for electric bicycles, powered mobility devices, lithium-ion batteries, and charging systems.
The law:
Requires accredited laboratory testing to meet specific safety standards
Mandates compliance labeling
Prohibits the sale, distribution, or lease of noncompliant products
Beginning January 1, 2028, rental providers may not offer electric bicycles or related equipment unless the devices meet required safety standards. These provisions aim to reduce fire hazards and electrical malfunctions.
Assembly Bill 1777 – Autonomous Vehicle Enforcement
AB 1777 grants law enforcement authority to issue a “Notice of Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Noncompliance” to manufacturers when an AV commits a traffic violation.
Beginning July 1, 2026, autonomous vehicles operating without a human driver must meet additional requirements for interaction with first responders, including a two-way communication device within the vehicle.
These provisions will take effect once the Department of Motor Vehicles adopts implementing regulations.
How These Laws May Impact You
With increased automation in speed enforcement, expanded work zone protections, and new e-bike regulations, drivers should expect heightened enforcement in several areas throughout 2026 and beyond.
If you receive a citation related to any of these new laws, it is important to understand your rights and legal options. Our firm specializes exclusively in traffic citation defense and remains up to date on evolving statutes and enforcement practices across California.
For case evaluation or consultation, contact our office to discuss your specific situation.