New Law Drives Updates to all Job Postings in 2025

Starting January 1, 2025, employers advertising open positions will need to be aware of a new requirement that Governor Newsom signed into law. Employers will no longer be allowed to state in a job advertisement, posting, application, etc. that an applicant must have a valid driver’s license in order to apply and be qualified for a job unless;

• Driving is an essential function of the job AND
• Using an alternative form of transportation would not be comparable in travel time or cost to employer.

The idea behind this new law, which amends FEHA (California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act), is to prohibit discrimination in the hiring process based on the lack of a driver’s license. The goal is to help open the door for individuals who do not have a driver’s license and may walk, bike, use ride-sharing, or other forms of transportation when traveling to and from work.

As a reminder, employers should frequently review job descriptions, as well as job postings, to ensure that the essential functions, qualifications, and physical requirements accurately reflect the current needs of the position and business.

CEA has developed a Job Description Toolkit which members may access for free by visiting our Employer Tool Kits page. The Toolkit will take you step by step through the process to ensure that you are developing job descriptions that clarify roles and expectations for employees and help contribute to the organizations overall efficiency, productivity, and success.