Let me search for the latest information on this topic.Catching Up on California Driving Laws: What’s New for Summer 2026
Summer is officially here, which means road trips, beach days, and unfortunately, peak traffic season on California roads.
While you are packing your sunscreen and planning your routes, the team here at Edmar Insurance Services wants to make sure you are up to speed on major DMV and traffic law updates. Driving laws have seen a major overhaul this year. Staying informed doesn’t just keep you safe—it protects your driving record and keeps your insurance premiums from skyrocketing.
Here is what you need to know before you hit the road this summer.
1. The “Slow Down, Move Over” Rule Applies to Everyone (AB 390)
In the past, California’s “Move Over” law only applied when you passed emergency vehicles or Caltrans trucks stopped on the side of the highway.
What’s new: As of this year, the law expands to any stationary vehicle with its hazard lights flashing. Whether it is a broken-down sedan, a delivery driver, or a tow truck, you must safely switch lanes to give them space. If changing lanes isn’t safe or possible, you are legally required to slow down to a safe, prudent speed.
Insurance Impact: Failing to move over or slow down is an infraction that adds a point to your DMV record. More points on your record usually mean higher insurance rates, so make it a habit to shift left when you see flashing hazards.
2. A Massive Crackdown on Hidden License Plates (AB 1085)
If you’ve been using tinted license plate covers, vinyl wraps, or specialized reflective sprays designed to block red-light cameras and toll readers, it is time to take them off.
California is cracking down heavily on license plate obstruction to combat toll evasion. Manufacturing, selling, or using these visibility-blocking products now carries a steep fine of up to $1,000 per violation. Law enforcement officers are actively conducting traffic stops for obscured plates this summer.
- Check your vehicle: If your physical license plate has standard wear-and-tear or peeling that reduces its reflectivity, play it safe and order a replacement from the DMV before you get flagged.
3. Expanded DUI Penalties & Ignition Interlock Devices (AB 366 & AB 1087)
California has significantly strengthened its stance on driving under the influence. The state’s Ignition Interlock Device (IID) program—which requires a breathalyzer to be wired into a car’s ignition—has been expanded. Courts are now mandated to require an IID for a broader range of offenders, including many first-time convictions.
Furthermore, under AB 1087, if an intoxicated driving incident tragically results in vehicular manslaughter, the mandatory probation period has been pushed from two years up to a window of three to five years.
4. New Tech on the Road: Autonomous Vehicles & E-Bikes
If you share the road with driverless cars or have kids riding electric bikes, keep these summer updates in mind:
- Driverless Tickets: Starting July 1, 2026, law enforcement can officially issue “notices of noncompliance” (essentially traffic tickets) directly to autonomous vehicle (AV) manufacturers if their vehicles break traffic rules. AVs are also now required to have two-way communication systems so first responders can instantly talk to a remote operator during an emergency.
- E-Bike Visibility: All e-bikes are now required to have a rear red reflector or a red light running at all times of day, not just at night.
Quick DMV Service Win: Duplicate Licenses (AB 506)
It is not all strict penalties! The DMV has finally modernized its rules regarding address changes. If you move, you can now officially request a duplicate physical driver’s license that reflects your new address. Previously, the DMV only issued duplicates if your card was lost, stolen, or destroyed.
Drive Safe and Save This Summer
A clean driving record is the absolute best way to keep your auto insurance affordable. If you have questions about how a recent ticket might impact your coverage, or if you just want to make sure your policy is fully updated for a summer road trip, we are here to help.
Give us a call at 866-722-6060 or drop us a line through our Live Chat (Monday–Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM). Safe driving!