California has implemented significant new driving laws for 2025 that every driver must understand to avoid penalties and stay compliant. These changes affect insurance requirements, parking regulations, and street racing enforcement, with stricter penalties designed to improve road safety across the state.

The most impactful change involves increased minimum auto liability insurance coverage. California DMV now requires $30,000 for injury or death to one person, $60,000 for multiple people, and $15,000 for property damage - a substantial increase from previous minimums. This change affects millions of California drivers who must update their policies to meet the new requirements.

The new "Daylighting" law introduces strict parking restrictions near crosswalks to improve pedestrian safety. Drivers cannot park within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk, and within 15 feet where curb extensions exist. Violations that previously resulted in warnings now carry enforceable penalties, making compliance essential for all California drivers.

California has also strengthened enforcement against illegal sideshows and street takeovers with new legislation allowing police to impound vehicles for up to 30 days without arrests. These laws target dangerous driving exhibitions in parking lots and highways, giving law enforcement expanded powers to combat reckless driving activities that threaten public safety.

Additional changes include higher penalties for vehicle break-ins, closing the "locked door loophole" that previously made prosecutions difficult. The California DMV has also tightened license renewal rules for senior drivers, requiring more frequent vision tests and assessments for drivers over 70 to ensure road safety for all users.