California has introduced new driving laws for 2025 that aim to improve road safety, regulate parking, and crack down on illegal street activities. These changes affect where you can park, how police enforce traffic violations, and the penalties for reckless driving. If you’re a California driver, commuter, or visitor, it’s important to understand these updates to avoid hefty fines and stay compliant.
From new parking restrictions and bus lane enforcement to harsher penalties for street racing and sideshows, here’s a breakdown of the most significant law changes and what they mean for you.
New California Driving Laws 2025
| New Law | Details | Effective Date | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daylighting Law (AB 413) | No parking within 20 feet of a crosswalk for better pedestrian visibility | January 1, 2025 | Parking fine |
| Bus Lane Enforcement | Fines for obstructing bus lanes and stops enforced with bus-mounted cameras | February 17, 2025 | $293 fine |
| Expanded Vehicle Impoundment (AB 2186) | Police can impound cars involved in sideshows/street racing in parking lots | January 1, 2025 | Vehicle impoundment |
| Impoundment Without Arrest (AB 1978) | Law enforcement can impound cars aiding in sideshows/street races without arresting the driver | January 1, 2025 | Vehicle impoundment |
| License Suspension for Speed Exhibitions | Street racing and sideshow participants face 90-day to 6-month license suspensions | July 1, 2025 | License suspension |
| License Plate Visibility (AB 2111) | Tampering with reflective license plates to evade cameras is illegal | January 1, 2025 | Fine & violation |
| Automated Speed Enforcement (SB 1297) | Malibu installs speed cameras in high-risk areas like school zones | 2025 | Speeding fines |
Source: California Government
California’s new 2025 driving laws focus on road safety, preventing illegal activities, and improving pedestrian visibility. From new parking restrictions to tougher penalties for street racing and sideshows, these laws will impact all drivers.
Stay informed, follow the rules, and drive safely!
For official details, visit: California Government Website
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New California Driving Laws 2025
Daylighting Law (AB 413): Safer Crosswalks & No-Parking Zones
A new parking rule in California bans parking within 20 feet of a crosswalk on the approach side. This law, called Daylighting (AB 413), aims to improve pedestrian visibility and reduce accidents.
Why This Matters:
- Helps drivers see pedestrians crossing at intersections
- Reduces accidents caused by blocked sightlines
- Makes crosswalks safer for everyone
Example: If you park too close to a crosswalk, expect a ticket in 2025.
Bus Lane Enforcement Program: $293 Fines for Blocking Bus Lanes
Starting February 17, 2025, Los Angeles will fine vehicles that obstruct bus lanes or stops. Bus-mounted cameras will help enforce this rule.
Why This Matters:
- Keeps bus lanes clear for public transportation
- Reduces traffic congestion caused by illegally parked vehicles
- Uses technology (cameras) for automatic enforcement
Example: If you stop in a bus lane, expect a $293 fine captured by a camera.
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New California Driving Laws 2025: Crackdown on Illegal Street Racing & Sideshows
Expanded Vehicle Impoundment (AB 2186)
California expanded police authority to impound cars involved in sideshows and street races in parking lots.
Why This Matters:
- Prevents reckless driving in public spaces
- Closes loopholes where parking lots were used for illegal races
- Helps law enforcement take action faster
Example: If your car is caught burning out in a parking lot, police can impound it immediately.
Impoundment Without Arrest (AB 1978)
Previously, law enforcement had to arrest drivers before impounding their cars for sideshow-related activities. AB 1978 changes that – police can now impound vehicles even without arresting the driver.
why This Matters:
- Allows quicker action against illegal events
- Prevents supporters & organizers from avoiding penalties
- Discourages participation in sideshows
Example: If you block off a street for a sideshow, even if you’re not driving, your car can still be impounded.
License Suspension for Speed Exhibitions (July 1, 2025)
Drivers caught participating in or promoting sideshows may face a driver’s license suspension of 90 days to 6 months.
Why This Matters:
- Makes street racing & sideshows less attractive
- Holds participants accountable, not just drivers
- Encourages safer driving habits
Example: If you rev your engine, do burnouts, or encourage others in a sideshow, your license could be suspended.
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New California Driving Laws 2025: Other Important Driving Law Changes
License Plate Visibility Law (AB 2111)
Starting January 1, 2025, it’s illegal to alter your license plate’s reflective coating to evade red-light or speed cameras.
Why This Matters:
- Prevents drivers from escaping traffic violations
- Increases accountability for speeding & red-light running
- Uses technology for fair traffic enforcement
Example: If you use sprays, covers, or tinted plates to avoid cameras, expect a ticket.
Automated Speed Enforcement in Malibu (SB 1297)
Malibu has been authorized to install up to five speed enforcement cameras in high-risk areas, such as school zones and accident-prone streets.
Why This Matters:
- Helps reduce speeding incidents
- Makes school zones safer
- Uses automated technology for enforcement
Example: If you’re caught speeding in Malibu, a camera ticket will be mailed to you.
New California Driving Laws 2025 (FAQs)
Can I still park near a crosswalk?
No. Under AB 413, you cannot park within 20 feet of a marked crosswalk on the approach side.
How do bus lane fines work?
Starting February 17, 2025, Los Angeles will issue $293 fines for cars blocking bus lanes or stops. Cameras will automatically detect violators.
What happens if I participate in a sideshow?
Your car can be impounded and your license suspended for 90 days to 6 months.
Can I still modify my license plate to avoid cameras?
No. Altering a license plate’s reflective coating is illegal under AB 2111.
Where will speed cameras be installed?
Malibu will install up to five speed cameras in high-risk areas like school zones.
