California Will Allow Radar Cameras to Issue Tickets Automatically Under New Legislation | Carscoops

      New legislation spans various topics including speeding, electric bikes, vehicle impounds, autonomous vehicles, and more.

      In California, school zone speed limits will be reduced in 2026.

      New regulations focus on e-bike and lithium battery safety.

      A pilot program for radar-based speed ticketing will initiate in work zones.

      As the new year approaches, fresh laws are being introduced across the United States. California has several that specifically concern drivers, riders, and others, including those operating autonomous vehicles on the road. The California Highway Patrol has alerted residents, with these laws set to take effect on January 1, 2026. If the CHP is paying attention, Californians should too.

      One of the key changes allows Caltrans to implement radar or laser-based speed safety systems in highway work zones as part of a new pilot program. These systems can capture images of license plates and issue tickets directly to the registered owners, with a formal review and appeal process in place.

      Speed limits are also becoming more adaptable. Caltrans will be permitted to decrease posted highway speeds by 5 mph, with warning citations given during the first 30 days. In school zones, local authorities can lower the speed limit from 25 to 20 mph until 2031, after which the reduced limit will automatically take effect wherever appropriate signage is present.

      An Expanded Move Over Rule

      The state's "slow down and move over" law is also broadening. Drivers are now obliged to either move over or reduce speed for any stationary vehicle displaying hazard lights or warning devices, extending beyond just emergency responders.

      This includes maintenance trucks, cone arrangements, triangles, and road flares. This change aligns with similar laws in various other states that mandate the same actions from drivers.

      Updates on E-Bikes, Electric Motorcycles, and Legal Regulations

      Electric mobility experiences some of the most significant changes, which is expected. Over the past year, there have been numerous incidents of individuals abusing or misusing powerful e-bikes. Starting in 2026, e-bikes will be required to have a red reflector or red light visible from behind at all times, not merely during the nighttime. The CHP’s online safety course will also fulfill the training requirement for minors cited for helmet infractions.

      Off-highway electric motorcycles, referred to as “eMotos” in California, are now officially recognized and categorized as off-highway vehicles. This classification necessitates the use of helmets, demands DMV identification, and enforces existing off-highway vehicle regulations.

      Law enforcement will also acquire new powers to impound specific electric vehicles for a minimum of 48 hours, particularly unlicensed high-speed electric bikes or Class 3 e-bikes used by riders under 16.

      Is Your Battery Compliant?

      Moreover, beginning in 2026, all e-bikes, powered mobility devices, and lithium-ion batteries sold in California must comply with accredited safety standards and display appropriate compliance labeling. Rentals will have to adhere to these same requirements starting in 2028.

      New Expectations for Autonomous Technology

      Lastly, manufacturers of autonomous vehicles will face increased oversight. Once DMV regulations are completed, police will have the capability to issue formal notices of noncompliance directly to AV manufacturers. By July 1, 2026, fully driverless vehicles must be equipped with two-way communication systems for first responders. It will be intriguing to see how many citations companies like Waymo (and potentially Tesla) accumulate in the coming year.