The cost of new and renewed driver's licenses went from $28 to $31 starting Jan 1st.

Other laws that took effect Jan 1 2010:

• Front-seat video screens are now allowed so long as they are arranged in a way to prevent the driver from viewing the screen.

• A driver approaching a stationary emergency vehicle ora tow truck with siren or lights on can now move into a lane not right next to the emergency vehicle or the tow truck.

• Cities and counties can allow local law officials to impounded a vehicle for up to 30 days of a suspect arrested for picking up a prostitue if he/she has been convicted within three years for the same crime.

Taking effect July 1:

• Convicted DUI offenders- Must install ignition devices on every vehicle they own or drive in order to keep their licenses. The amount of time the device needs to be installed is based upon the number of DUI convictions. The following cities will be adopting this new law:

Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento and Tulare counties