🔧 What’s Changed for 2025? California Commercial Vehicle Registration Updates
As the new year rolls in, California’s registry laws for commercial vehicles have been updated to reflect evolving compliance standards, streamlined processes, and new inspection thresholds. Whether you operate one truck or a fleet, here’s what all owner‑operators and fleet managers need to know for 2025.
1. BIT Inspections Now Apply Only to Heavier Trucks
Assembly Bill 3278 took effect January 1, 2025—meaning now only commercial motor vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more must undergo BIT (Brake, Inspection & Maintenance) inspections every 90 days. Lighter commercial vehicles still fall under the standard federal annual inspection requirement under 49 C.F.R. § 396.17.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
2. Permanent Fleet Registration (PFR) Expanded
The DMV’s Permanent Fleet Registration program gets better in 2025. Eligible businesses (at least 25 vehicles, or 50 if registered directly) can now manage renewals using a single monthly list—no more renewing each truck individually. Permanent stickers and shared expiration dates make compliance easier than ever.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
3. Grace Period for Expired Registration Extended
Thanks to AB 256, Californians now benefit from a two-month grace period after a truck’s registration expires, during which expired tabs alone can’t trigger enforcement—unless the vehicle is stopped for another violation. This stays in effect until January 1, 2030.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
4. Pickup Truck Registration Redefined
Under **AB 2963**, pickup trucks that aren’t used for business no longer count as “commercial vehicles”—and they’re exempt from commercial weight fees. If they renew after January 1, 2025, they can even keep their old license plates.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
5. Proposed Rules for Heavy-Duty Autonomous Trucks
The DMV is reviewing new regulations that would allow tests and deployment of fully autonomous trucks (10,001 lbs+). Interested manufacturers can apply for a phased “Testing Permit” followed by a “Deployment Permit,” although passenger, hazmat, and oversized operations remain excluded—for now.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
6. DMV Warns Against Scams—and Updates Office Access
Be vigilant—California DMV reminds commercial operators that there are no discounts** on registration—only official channels are secure. Also, some IBC “posting” services now transition to online processing to streamline your paperwork.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Why It Matters for You
- Save time & money: Lessen inspection requirements and consolidate fleet renewals.
- Avoid penalties: Use the grace period smartly, and don’t misidentify non-commercial pickups.
- Get ahead of new tech: Autonomous vehicles are on the horizon—know what’s coming.
Need Help Staying Compliant in 2025?
Contact Quick Permits Inc.—we specialize in commercial registrations, BIT inspections, fleet renewals, and can guide you through emerging AV permitting.
Call: (559) 203‑5780
Email: permitsq@gmail.com
Quick Permits Inc. — Driving Your Compliance Forward