E-bikes to self-driving cars: California’s new traffic laws in 2026

Speed safety system pilot program moves forward in California

A proposed bill would launch a pilot program in six California cities that issues speeding tickets through cameras rather than police officers.

The Brief

California is rolling out several new traffic laws in 2026, including tougher rules for autonomous vehicles and making it a crime to possess car-key cloning devices.
E-bike riders must now use rear red lights or reflectors at all times, and local governments can lower school zone speed limits to 20 mph.
Although the laws are in place, how strictly agencies will enforce new “noncompliance notices” for driverless vehicles remains uncertain.

SACRAMENTO — Big changes are coming to California roadways as the California Highway Patrol begins enforcing a new set of traffic and safety laws.

What we know

The legislative package targets modern roadway issues, including vehicle theft technology and expanded safety requirements.

Under AB 486, possessing key-programming devices or signal extenders with intent to commit burglary is now a misdemeanor. Penalties include up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000.

For California’s growing number of e-bike riders, AB 544 now requires rear red lights or reflectors during all hours of operation, replacing the previous rule that applied only at night.

The law also allows minors cited for helmet violations to clear their records by completing a CHP-approved online safety course.

Full list: New California laws taking effect in 2026

The laws signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom address ongoing concerns such as consumer protection, workplace rights, education, immigration, and transportation safety.

Why you should care

These updates focus on protecting vulnerable road users while adapting to the expansion of self-driving technology.

Local governments can now reduce school zone speed limits to 20 mph, adding another layer of protection for students.

At the same time, autonomous vehicles will face closer oversight. Law enforcement agencies can issue “notices of noncompliance” to AV manufacturers when their vehicles commit traffic violations.

What they’re saying

The California Highway Patrol says the changes are necessary to keep up with evolving transportation technology.

By emphasizing safety education for young riders and holding manufacturers accountable, the state hopes to reduce crashes and modernize traffic enforcement.

“These laws reflect our commitment to safety in an era of rapidly changing transportation,” a CHP safety bulletin stated.

What’s next

As the year continues, drivers may notice updated school zone signage and stricter enforcement of e-bike equipment rules.

Autonomous vehicle manufacturers have until summer to meet new communication standards designed to help emergency responders safely interact with driverless cars during roadside situations.

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