California Traffic Laws That Drivers Need To Know (2025)

Key California Traffic Laws Every Driver Should Know

California’s roadways are some of the busiest in the nation. While many of the rules are similar to those in other states, California has several regulations that vary slightly or are frequently enforced. Some of the key laws include the following:

• Speed enforcement
• Moving violations
• Non-moving violations

Moving violations generally cover such actions as running a red light or failing to stop at a stop sign. On the other hand, non-moving violations can include things like failing to wear a seat belt or driving with a suspended license.

Rules on Speed, Right-of-Way, and Seat Belts

California uses the “basic speed law,” meaning you must always drive at a safe speed for the current conditions, even if that’s slower than the posted speed limit. For instance, if it's raining heavily, you are legally required to adjust your speed to stay safe. Speeding fines for violating this law can vary widely based on how much you exceeded the limit and whether you were in a specialty zone, such as a school zone.

Similarly, right-of-way laws prioritize safety at intersections, crosswalks and multi-way stops. In many scenarios, you are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, cyclists and emergency vehicles. Failure to yield can result in steep fines and liability in a personal injury claim.

California also requires seat belt use for all drivers and passengers ages eight and older. Children under eight years old have to be in an appropriate safety seat. If you violate California’s seat belt law, you could receive a fine of up to $162. If you have an unrestrained child in your vehicle, the fine could be up to $490.

Distracted and Reckless Driving Laws

Distracted driving is a top cause of accidents in many states. California has several laws designed to help cut down on distracted driving, such as a ban on using handheld cell phones while driving. Texting, scrolling or even holding your phone can result in a fine. You are allowed to use hands-free devices if you are over 18, though.

Reckless driving occurs when you operate a vehicle in a way that shows a willful or wanton disregard for property and persons. Like many states, California has stiffer penalties when distracted or reckless driving leads to car accidents.

DUI and Open Container Regulations

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can lead to fines, loss of your license and even jail or prison time. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for California is 0.08% for most adult drivers. If you have a CDL and are operating a commercial vehicle or are under 21, the BAC limits can be lower.

A DUI conviction can lead to a loss of your license and hefty fines. You could also face steep insurance rate increases.

Additionally, California has open container laws that prohibit you from having unsealed alcohol in the vehicle’s passenger area. Passengers who have open containers in their possession could also be cited.

Licensing, Permits, and Driving Eligibility

To legally drive in California, you must hold a valid driver’s license or a recognized out-of-state or foreign license. New drivers can get their learner's license at age 15 ½.

After completing driver’s ed and six months of practice, learner’s license holders can get a provisional license. They can obtain an unrestricted license at 18 or after having a provisional license for 12 months with no major violations.

California requires you to renew your license every five years. A vision test is required at each renewal period.

California also issues REAL ID licenses. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID is required for domestic flights and to access certain federal government buildings. While the TSA and other federal agencies are being somewhat flexible, you should consider getting your California REAL ID as soon as possible so that you can avoid any headaches when traveling domestically.

You can check the status of your license, registration and any open traffic cases on the California DMV website.

Parking and Red Light Camera Laws

Parking laws in California are strictly enforced and vary by jurisdiction. Make sure you know the parking laws in any cities you frequent. Some common violations include the following:

• Parking in red zones
• Blocking driveways or fire hydrants
• Exceeding the time limit on your parking meter

California also allows the use of red light cameras statewide. However, these systems are implemented on a city-by-city basis. If you’re caught by a red light camera, you may receive a ticket in the mail, along with a photo of your vehicle. Make sure you pay or contest any red light tickets within the set deadlines to avoid harsher penalties.

Vehicle Code and Penalties for Violations

California’s vehicle code governs everything from vehicle registration to driver behavior. Violating the code may result in:

• Fines and license points
• Jail time and a criminal record
• Prison time for offenses that are felonies

Violations can also increase your average car insurance cost per month. If you’ve been involved in a crash or cited for a serious violation, you should consider getting legal support before your court date. This also applies if you feel you’ve been wrongly accused of violating a traffic law.

Don’t wait, as the sooner you partner with an attorney, the more time they will have to build a strong case on your behalf.

Legal Help And Protecting Your Rights

ConsumerShield connects Californians with experienced legal professionals who can stand up for their rights and provide timely assistance. If you’ve suffered a personal injury due to a traffic-related incident or are dealing with the consequences of a traffic violation, ConsumerShield can help. Fill out our contact form to get started today.