With the advent of 2020 comes several new California driving laws. Among the laws which went into effect for the new year include REAL ID regulations and several new laws which will affect travel in 2020. Let’s explore the new changes which went into effect on January 1, 2020, so you aren’t caught unaware as you travel from place to place or transact DMV related actions.
The REAL ID
As the lines for the REAL ID begin to grow, with its impending acceptance coming October 1, 2020, let’s start there. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, beginning on October 1, will require residents to have a federally approved document (ID Card or REAL ID Driver’s License) to board domestic flights as well as access military bases and secure federal facilities.
For your REAL ID, you’ll need to fill out an application and head to a DMV office. You’ll need the following documentation:
- Original or certified proof of identity (examples: valid passport, birth certificate) (You’ll also need a legal name change document if name differs on your supporting documents (example: marriage license).
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two proofs of state residency (examples: utility bill, bank statement)
If you haven’t obtained your REAL ID, you’ll want to do so sooner, as lines will only continue to grow!
California Driving Laws Effective January 1, 2020
Here are the latest driving law changes which may affect you:
- AB 317 makes it illegal for anyone to offer for sale or sell a DMV appointment.
- AB 544 produces a new program that grants access to HOV lanes for approximately four years to low-emission vehicles as well as zero-emission transitional vehicles, regardless of vehicle occupancy. With AB 544 comes the issuance by DMV of orange access decals which will be valid until January 1, 2024.
- AB 1614 prolongs the pilot program evaluating the cost-effectiveness/use of license plate and registration card alternative until January 1, 2021.
- AB 1810 permits those with a valid driver’s license/permit (any class) to operate a motorized scooter, thus negating the former requirement for a Class M2 driver’s license.
- AB 2115 states that those approaching/passing a stopped waste service vehicle must make a lane change and pass at a safe distance.
- SB 267 extends the validity of driver’s licenses for those in U.S. Foreign Service (and their spouses) for the period of their service plus up to 30 days following their return to the state.
- SB 485 states the court no longer has the authority to restrict, revoke, or order the DMV to delay driving privileges for a person who has been convicted of vandalism, prostitution, or other non-driving legal offenses.
- SB 957 permits specified used vehicles that previously held a green or white clean air decal to receive a new decal allowing them access to HOV lanes until January 1, 2024. Qualification requires the vehicle owner to have an income of 80 percent or less than the median income for the state.
Now, you know! Make note of the changes which affect you and adjust accordingly. Drive safely Barnes Firm Community!
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California Driving Laws , Car Accident Lawyers California , The Barnes Firm
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