DRIVERS across the US are facing a wave of new road rules starting today.
Some of the changes hit smartphone habits, while others affect how self-driving cars can operate.
Starting September 1, several new driving laws take effect across the US (stock)[/caption]
South Carolina bans holding phones while driving (stock)[/caption]
Texas Self-Driving Car Permit
Starting September 1, fully autonomous vehicles in Texas must get a permit from the Department of Motor Vehicles before operating on public streets.
Governor Greg Abbott signed SB 2807 to regulate self-driving cars.
The law requires companies to provide emergency response plans for their autonomous vehicles.
Tesla’s robotaxi service in Austin is currently exempt since rides include a human safety monitor.
Waymo and other autonomous car services will need state approval before taking passengers.
Authorities can revoke permits if regulation aren’t followed.
Move Over, Slow Down
Texas is expanding the “Move Over, Slow Down” law to protect roadside workers.
Drivers must slow down or change lanes near stopped service vehicles, including tow trucks, garbage trucks, animal control, and toll operators.
Fines range from $500 to $1,250.
Repeat offenses causing property damage or injury face harsher penalties.
The law aims to safeguard workers performing essential duties on the roadside.
South Carolina hands-free law
Drivers in South Carolina must now keep their hands off their cell phones while driving.
The Palmetto State became the 33rd state to pass a hands-free driving law.
First offenses carry a $100 fine. Repeat violations within three years cost $200 and add points to the license.
New September driving laws and rules
- Starting September 14, new speed cameras will be turned on in Florida and threaten with $100 fees
- On September 1, drivers in South Carolina will have to watch where they put their hands under a new hands-free law
- Also, on September 1, certain vehicles operating in Texas will have to get a special permit
- More drivers will be forced to get dozens of hours of training before getting their license under a new law
- And drivers have until September 30 to collect a $7,500 tax credit
Bluetooth, voice-to-text, and other hands-free functions remain legal.
Law enforcement urges drivers to avoid using phones even at stoplights.
Signs along roads and digital displays will promote the new law.
Training Crackdown for Young Drivers
Drivers aged 18 to 20 must now complete 50 hours of supervised driving, matching teen requirements.
Those without access to high school driver education may have to pay up to $400 for lessons.
The law ensures young adults get the same practical driving experience as younger teens.
Other September Laws
Speed cameras will be installed outside schools in Doral, Miami-Dade County, starting September 14.
Drivers exceeding the speed limit by 10 mph or more during school hours face a $100 fine.
The cameras operate 30 minutes before and after school, as well as during school hours, but remain inactive on weekends and holidays.
Drivers across the US have until September 30 to claim federal electric vehicle tax credits.
The new budget plan ends the $7,500 credit for new EVs and $4,000 for used models.
Road Safety Updates
Illinois residents can now carry digital driver’s licenses in addition to physical cards.
Physical cards are still required when requested by law enforcement.
Businesses can choose whether to accept digital IDs, but cannot mandate them.
States are adjusting car seat age and weight requirements.
California has introduced stricter street racing penalties.
Daylighting rules now prohibit parking within 20 feet of crosswalks in some areas.
Drivers must check local updates before hitting the road.
September 1 marks a turning point for US drivers, with new fines, permits, and restrictions across multiple states.
Drivers ignoring the rules risk fines, points, or permit revocation.
