California drivers are experiencing major changes on the road in 2026 with updated traffic laws that could affect your daily commute, your wallet, and even your freedom. These laws target safety, clarify rules for emerging technologies, and add stiffer penalties for violations. Below, we break down the most important changes, what they mean, and the penalties you could face under California vehicle law. 

1. Expanded DUI Penalties & Ignition Interlock Devices

One of the biggest changes affects how drunk driving offenses are handled in California. Under long‑standing law, Vehicle Code § 23152 makes it illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more.

What’s New

• Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs): Assembly Bill 366 expands requirements so that all DUI offenders, including first‑time offenders, must install an IID in their vehicle if ordered by the court. Drivers who fail to install this device can face fines up to $5,000 and possibly up to six months in county jail.

• Longer Probation for DUI with Death or Injury: Assembly Bill 1087 increases probation length for people convicted of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated from a typical two years to three to five years or more, with the possibility of prison if probation is violated.

Why It Matters

These changes mean more drivers will face strict supervision and costly consequences for DUI convictions. Even first‑time offenders could see harsher post‑conviction requirements.

2. “Slow Down and Move Over” Expanded (AB 390)

California has always required drivers to move over or slow down for emergency vehicles. In 2026 the rule is broader.

New Rule

• Drivers must now slow down and move over for any stationary vehicle with hazard lights. Not just emergency responders.

Penalties

Violating this law can lead to fines similar to other moving violations and could rack up points on your driving record, affecting insurance rates and license status.

3. Automated Traffic Enforcement & Red Light Cameras (SB 720)

Local governments now have broader authority to use automated systems for traffic law enforcement.

What’s Changing

• Cameras may be used to enforce red light violations and possibly other infractions.

• Tickets issued by an automated system are civil penalties, not criminal charges, but they can cost hundreds of dollars and still impact your record.

Why It Matters

This opens the doors for more camera enforcement and fewer cops on the street. Running a red light even without a police officer present now has an increased risk of a ticket in the near future.

4. License Plate Tampering & Obstruction (AB 1085)

California is cracking down on people trying to conceal or alter plates to evade tolls or cameras.

New Penalty

• It’s now an infraction to manufacture or sell devices that obscure or interfere with plate readability, punishable by fines up to $1,000.

This includes illegal covers or reflective modifications meant to block automated enforcement.

5. School Zone Speed Reductions (AB 382)

While many know school zones are slower than regular roads, a future change will lower the default school zone speed limit from 25 mph to 20 mph in certain areas starting in 2031.

The point now is to alert drivers: more conservative speed limits are coming.

6. Parking Penalty Relief for Low‑Income Motorists (AB 1299)

Not all changes increase penalties. Under this new rule:

• Local governments can waive or reduce parking fines if a driver demonstrates financial hardship.

• Payment plans must be offered.

This helps prevent small violations from growing into major burdens.

7. Other Driver Safety Notes You Should Know

Beyond these headlines:

• E‑bike safety laws are being updated (helmets required, rear lights/reflectors, county‑specific age limits).

• Autonomous vehicles will require specific communication systems to ensure first responders can interact with remote operators.

What Happens If You Get a Ticket Under These New Laws?

Traffic violations in California can affect your driver’s license, insurance rates, and criminal record (in some cases). Points from moving violations stay on your driving record and can lead to license suspension under the Negligent Operator Treatment System if you accumulate too many.

Even civil penalties from automated enforcement can trigger insurance consequences.

That’s where Ticket Clinic California makes a difference.

Why Ticket Clinic California Is Your Best Defense

At Ticket Clinic, our experienced traffic attorneys understand all aspects of California traffic law, including the new 2026 changes. We’ve successfully fought thousands of traffic tickets, from DUIs and reckless driving to automated camera violations and speeding tickets.

When the law changes and enforcement gets stricter, you need a legal team that stays ahead of those changes.

Take Action — Protect Your Driving Record

If you’ve been cited under any of these new laws or simply want a seasoned traffic attorney on your side, contact Ticket Clinic California today for a free case evaluation. Our experts can review your case, explain your options, and fight for the best outcome possible.

📞 Call now or visit our click here to get started.