New DMV laws that take effect in 2026

The California Department of Motor Vehicles Friday announced several new laws which have taken effect in the new year.

Those new DMV laws include:

— AB 366 (Petrie-Norris): Extends the statewide Ignition Interlock Device Pilot Program, a breathalizer preventing a vehicle’s ignition from starting with the presence of alcohol on the breath, for DUI offenders to Jan. 1, 2033.

— AB 1087 (Patterson): Increases the term of probation from two years to between three and five years for those convicted of vehicular manslaughter or gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.

— AB 382 (Berman): Lowers the school zone speed limit from 25 to 20 mph to help reduce speeding.

— AB 1085 (Stefani): Makes it an infraction with a fine of $1,000 to manufacture in California a product or device that obscures, or is intended to obscure or interfere with the visual or electronic reading of a license plate.

— SB 586 (Jones): Classifies an “off-highway electric motorcycle” or “eMoto” as an off-highway motor vehicle, thereby requiring them to follow OHV rules, including displaying a DMV-issued ID plate or placard.

— SB 766 (Allen): Requires a dealer to provide customers a three-day right to cancel the purchase or lease of a vehicle under $50,000.

— AB 1299 (Bryan): Authorizes local governments to waive or reduce parking penalties if a person is unable to pay and requires the provision of a payment plan if requested, helping prevent escalating fines, vehicle towing, and lien sales that can disproportionately impact low-income individuals.

–City News Service