New DMV rules for New Year

In addition to the numerous laws affecting business, education and privacy, there are new Department of Motor Vehicles laws that take effect in 2020.

The federal REAL ID Act tightens rules on which forms of identification may be used to board flights within the United States, enter federal courthouses, military bases and other federal facilities.

In order to apply for the REAL ID, you must have proof of identity, Social Security number (if eligible) and proof of California residency.

According to the DMV REAL ID website, the new ID will be required to enter a post offices, Veterans Affairs and Social Security Administration offices; to ride Amtrak; to visit a hospital; or receive life-saving services.

And, as a reminder, beginning Oct. 1, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will require residents to have a federally approved document, like a REAL ID driver's license or ID card to board domestic flights and to access secured federal facilities and military bases.

Other DMV laws taking effect making it illegal to sell or offer for sale a DMV appointment.

Certain used vehicles that were privately issued a green or white clean-air vehicle decal will be able to get another decal, which will allow access to high-occupancy vehicle lanes until Jan. 1, 2024. In order to qualify, the new owner’s income must be 80% or less than the statewide median income.

Also, courts will not be able to revoke, restrict or order the DMV to delay the driving privilege of a person convicted of prostitution, vandalism or other nondriving offenses.

Drivers and their spouses in the Foreign Service will be able to have their license valid while they are in the service and can extend it to 30 days after they return home.

Drivers with a valid driver’s license or permit of any class will be able to operate a motorized scooter. A Class M2 license or permit will not be required.

Any driver who is approaching or passing a stopped waste service vehicle will need to make a lane change and pass at a safe distance.