California Permit Practice Test — DMV Written Test, Free to Start

Free 10-question California permit practice test, then 40-question practice tests, each question cited to the California Driver’s Handbook.

The exam

This practice test is 40 questions, and 32 correct is a pass. Everything on it comes out of California Driver’s Handbook. Officially it is the knowledge test; most people call it the written test, or the permit test.

California does not publish how many questions its knowledge test asks. This practice test asks 40, and passes at the 80% set by California’s own rules (dmv.ca.gov’s Instruction and Learner’s Permits page: “a passing score is 80%”).

How this works

Most practice tests hand you a bank of questions and leave the manual somewhere else. This one puts them together.

You read one law and the reason behind it, then answer a question on that law while it is still fresh. Get it right and you move on; get it wrong and you have found the gap while it is cheap to fix, not on the morning of the exam.

Learning one rule at a time, and proving it immediately, is what turns a manual you skimmed into something you actually know — and it makes studying feel like getting somewhere rather than like waiting to find out.

Ask a question about California road law

Easier than searching the manual: ask in your own words — how far from a fire hydrant you may park, when you must stop for a school bus — and the answer comes from California Driver’s Handbook or California’s code, with the page or the section it is in. When neither says, the answer says so rather than guess. Or tick Nationwide and compare every state on one question.

Ask a question

California driving law, answered

California driving questions, answered

What it costs

  • One payment, once — not a subscription. Nothing renews and there is nothing to cancel, for an exam you sit one time.
  • Free to start: a 10-question test and the first section of cards. No sign-up and no account.
  • Paying opens the rest of the cards, unlimited full-length practice tests, and retests built from exactly the questions you got wrong.
  • Every level up to Prepared — 3 tests passed in a row.
  • Do the work, fail the real exam, and we refund you.

What California tests

131 concepts, 650 separate rules. Each one is a page of its own.

Questions from the California test

What does a California driver’s license let you do?

Drive on public roads in the state. Driving on a public road is something the state lets you do, and the card is how it says yes. California Driver’s Handbook, p.1: “A California driver’s license allows you to drive on public roads.”

What must you get first if you hold no license from any state?

An instruction permit. The permit is what lets you practice on the road before anyone will test you on it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.2: “If you do not have a driver’s license from California or another state, you must apply for an instruction permit before taking the behind-the-wheel drive test to get your driver’s license.”

How old must you be to apply for an instruction permit if you are under 18?

15½ years old. It is the floor the state sets under the whole teen path, and nothing starts before it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.3: “Be at least 15½ years old.”

How old must the licensed driver riding with a minor who is practicing be?

At least 25 years old. The whole point of the passenger is to grab the wheel, and they cannot do that from the back seat. California Driver’s Handbook, p.3: “Practice driving with a California-licensed driver who is at least 18 years old (25 for minors).”

What word appears on the license of a driver under 18?

Provisional. The word on the card is a reminder that the license comes with limits the adult one does not. California Driver’s Handbook, p.4: “When you are under 18 years old, your driver’s license will have the word provisional.”

How long do you have to tell DMV about a change of address?

Ten days. Every notice the state sends goes to the address it has, including the one about your license. California Driver’s Handbook, p.8: “If you move, you must notify DMV of your new address within ten days.”

Who takes a vision test at DMV?

Every applicant for a license. Almost everything a driver does starts with seeing it, so sight is checked before anything else. California Driver’s Handbook, p.5: “DMV tests all applicants to ensure they can see well enough to drive safely.”

What kind of questions does the California knowledge test ask?

Multiple choice questions. The paper is the state checking that you know the rules before you meet them at speed. California Driver’s Handbook, p.5: “When you apply for an original driver’s license, you must pass a knowledge test with multiple choice questions.”

How many instructions may the examiner give you at one time?

Two or more at once. Real driving arrives in strings of things to do, so the test asks for two at once on purpose. California Driver’s Handbook, p.5: “The examiner may give two or more instructions at one time to determine whether you can understand and properly follow both directions.”

What does the examiner ask you to do before the drive test starts?

Locate and demonstrate the vehicle’s controls. If you cannot find the wipers in a parking lot, you will not find them in the rain. California Driver’s Handbook, p.6: “Before you begin, the DMV examiner will ask you to locate and demonstrate the following:”

What must your eyesight let you do as a driver?

Spot hazards, judge distance and read signs. Driving is mostly looking, and the rest of it is acting on what you saw in time. California Driver’s Handbook, p.9: “Vision – You must be able to notice hazards in different types of lighting,”

How many hands should be on the wheel whenever possible?

Both hands. One hand can hold a straight line. Two hands are what save you when the line stops being straight. California Driver’s Handbook, p.9: “To control your vehicle, it is critical to keep both hands on the wheel whenever possible.”

When must you signal?

Turning, changing lanes, slowing down or stopping. The driver behind you plans around what you do next, and the signal is how they learn it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.10: “Always signal when you turn, change lanes, slow down, or stop.”

What is the horn for?

Warning others that you are there. The horn is a warning and nothing else. It does not make a slow car in front of you any faster. California Driver’s Handbook, p.11: “Use your vehicle’s horn to let other drivers know you are there or warn others of a hazard.”

Within what distance of an oncoming vehicle must you dim your high beams?

500 feet. High beams reach far enough to blind the driver ahead, and a blinded driver cannot stay in their lane. California Driver’s Handbook, p.11: “Dim your high-beam headlights to low beams within 500 feet of a vehicle coming toward you or within 300 feet of a vehicle you are following.”

What should you turn on when you see a collision ahead of you?

Your emergency flashers. The car behind cannot see past you, so the first they know of the crash is your lights. California Driver’s Handbook, p.12: “If you can see a collision or hazard ahead, warn drivers behind you using these methods:”

Where should you stop when your vehicle gives trouble?

Off the road, away from traffic. A car on the shoulder is a hazard. A car in the lane is the thing somebody runs into. California Driver’s Handbook, p.12: “If possible, pull off the road away from all traffic.”

What does a single solid yellow line mark?

The center of a two-way road. Yellow paint means traffic on the far side is coming at you, not going the same way. California Driver’s Handbook, p.13: “A single solid yellow line marks the center of a road with two-way traffic.”

What does a single solid white line separate?

Lanes going in the same direction. White paint means the traffic beside you is heading the way you are, not toward you. California Driver’s Handbook, p.13: “A single solid white line marks traffic lanes going in the same direction.”

Which lane is the Number 1 Lane?

The left, or fast, lane. Radio traffic reports and road signs count from the left, so counting the same way keeps you found. California Driver’s Handbook, p.15: “The left (or fast) lane is called the Number 1 Lane.”

What comes first when you change lanes?

Signal, then check mirrors and traffic. Mirrors show most of the road behind, and the order of the checks is what keeps the gap real. California Driver’s Handbook, p.15: “Before you change lanes: • Signal. • Check your mirrors. • Check traffic behind and beside you.”

Where is the passing lane on a multilane road?

The far left lane by the divider. Traffic in it is moving through rather than turning off, so it stays clear for the overtake. California Driver’s Handbook, p.15: “On a multilane road, the passing lane (far left lane) is the lane closest to the center divider and is used to pass other vehicles.”

Which of the two lines beside a center left turn lane is broken?

The inner line. The broken line on your side is the door in. The solid line on the far side keeps the other direction out. California Driver’s Handbook, p.16: “It is marked on both sides by two painted lines. The inner line is broken and the outer line is solid.”

How many vehicles behind you on a two-lane road make a turnout compulsory?

Five or more. A line of cars behind a slow vehicle is where drivers start taking chances they should not. California Driver’s Handbook, p.16: “You must use a turnout area or lane to let other vehicles pass when you are driving slowly on a two-lane road, where passing is unsafe, and there are five or more vehicles following you.”

Who are bicycle lanes for?

Bicyclists and nobody else. The lane is the only strip of road a rider can count on, and a car in it leaves them nowhere. California Driver’s Handbook, p.17: “Bicycle lanes are for bicyclists only and run alongside vehicle traffic.”

Where should your vehicle be before a right turn?

Close to the right edge of the road. Leaving a gap at the curb invites a rider up your inside, exactly where you are about to go. California Driver’s Handbook, p.18: “Drive close to the right edge of the road.”

What must happen before a right turn at a red light?

A complete stop at the line. The stop is what buys you the look, and a rolling turn means you never took it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.18: “You may turn right at a red light after a complete stop unless there is a NO TURN ON RED sign.”

Where should your vehicle be before a left turn?

Close to the center divider. Sitting out to the left keeps the lane beside you free for drivers who are going straight on. California Driver’s Handbook, p.19: “Drive close to the center divider or into the left turn lane.”

Which lane do you make a U-turn from?

The left turn lane or far-left lane. The turn crosses every lane on the road at once, so it starts from the lane closest to the middle. California Driver’s Handbook, p.20: “To make a U-turn, signal and use the left turn lane or far-left lane.”

Who has the right-of-way at a T intersection?

Traffic going straight through. The road that keeps going is the one nobody has to stop on, so the turning driver waits. California Driver’s Handbook, p.22: “Traffic going straight through the intersection has the right-of-way.”

What comes before pressing the brake pedal?

Letting the vehicle slow on its own. Letting the car slow itself first means the brake has less to do and the stop stays smooth. California Driver’s Handbook, p.22: “Remove your foot from the accelerator and allow the vehicle to slow down.”

Who has the right-of-way when you join a highway?

The traffic already on the highway. The cars already rolling cannot see what you plan, and slowing them is how a rear-end crash starts. California Driver’s Handbook, p.23: “Highway traffic has the right-of-way.”

What should you know before you reach your exit?

Which exit it is and when it comes. A driver who spots the exit late makes three lane changes in the space of one. California Driver’s Handbook, p.23: “Know your exit and be aware of when it is approaching.”

What kind of space do you need when pulling out from a full stop?

Enough to reach the speed of traffic. From a standstill you need room to build speed, not just room to fit the car in. California Driver’s Handbook, p.24: “When entering traffic from a full stop, signal and leave a large enough space to get up to the speed of traffic.”

How far ahead should a hill or curve be before you pass?

One-third of a mile. Over a rise or round a bend you cannot see the car that is already coming at you. California Driver’s Handbook, p.24: “To safely pass, the hill or curve should be at least one-third of a mile ahead.”

What do you do after signaling that you plan to pass?

Look over your shoulder at the blind spots. The shoulder check is what finds the car that started passing you a second earlier. California Driver’s Handbook, p.25: “Signal that you plan on passing.”

How much longer than your vehicle should a parallel parking space be?

At least three feet. Three feet is the room the car needs to swing in without touching either bumper. California Driver’s Handbook, p.26: “Look for a space at least three feet longer than your vehicle.”

How far do you back in a straight line during the drive test exercise?

Three vehicle lengths. Backing is slow and blind, so everything you are going to hit has to be found before you move. California Driver’s Handbook, p.27: “Back in a straight line for three vehicle lengths while remaining within three feet of the curb.”

What do you do besides turning the wheels when parking on a hill?

Set the parking brake and leave it in park. The wheels are a second line of defense. The brake and the gear are the first. California Driver’s Handbook, p.27: “When you park on a hill, your vehicle could roll due to equipment failure.”

What may you do at a white curb?

Pick up or drop off passengers. It is a place to let somebody out, not a space to leave the car in while you go inside. California Driver’s Handbook, p.28: “White: Stop only long enough to pick up or drop off passengers.”

Where must you never park at a crossing?

On a crosswalk, marked or not. A car in the crossing forces people on foot out into the lane to get round it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.28: “On a marked or unmarked crosswalk.”

Where do you wait after stopping on a freeway?

Inside the vehicle with the doors locked. The car is a shell around you, and the lane beside it is carrying traffic at 65 mph. California Driver’s Handbook, p.29: “If you must stop on a freeway, park completely off the pavement and stay in your vehicle with the doors locked until help arrives.”

Which driving habit lowers fuel use the most?

Smooth, steady speed. Every hard acceleration burns fuel you then throw away again on the brakes. California Driver’s Handbook, p.29: “Speed up and slow down smoothly. Drive at a steady speed.”

What tells an officer behind you that you have seen them?

Your right turn signal. The officer behind you cannot tell whether you have noticed them until something on your car moves. California Driver’s Handbook, p.29: “Turn on your right turn signal to acknowledge that you see the officer.”

What must a driver produce at a law enforcement stop?

License, insurance and registration. Those three papers are the ones the stop is about, and they belong somewhere you can reach. California Driver’s Handbook, p.30: “The driver of a stopped vehicle must produce a driver’s license,”

What does a solid red traffic signal light mean?

Come to a stop and wait. It is the plainest instruction on the road, and the one every other driver is counting on. California Driver’s Handbook, p.33: “A red traffic signal light means STOP.”

What does a walking person signal tell a pedestrian?

They may cross the street. It is the only signal a person on foot is given, so drivers have to know what it is telling them. California Driver’s Handbook, p.35: “WALK or Walking Person You may cross the street.”

What must you do at this sign?

Make a full stop and check all directions. The stop is what buys you the look, and the look is the only thing that keeps the intersection safe. California Driver’s Handbook, p.35: “Make a full stop before entering the crosswalk or at the limit line.”

What does this sign tell you to expect?

Children near a school. Children step out without checking, and that is exactly what the sign is warning you about. California Driver’s Handbook, p.38: “You are near a school. Drive slowly and stop for children in the crosswalk.”

What should you do when you see this sign?

Look, listen, slow down and be ready to stop. A train needs a mile to stop and you need a few seconds, so the looking is all on you. California Driver’s Handbook, p.38: “You are approaching a railroad crossing. Look, listen, slow R R down, and prepare to stop.”

Which warning signs must you obey?

Every one, whatever its shape. The shape helps you read it early. It does not decide whether the sign is worth obeying. California Driver’s Handbook, p.35: “Obey all warning signs regardless of their shape or color.”

Who has the right-of-way at an intersection?

Whoever arrived there first. Somebody has to go first, and arriving first is the rule everybody can see for themselves. California Driver’s Handbook, p.39: “The vehicle that arrives to the intersection first has the right-of-way.”

Who goes first when two vehicles reach an uncontrolled intersection together?

The one on the right. Both drivers need the same answer at the same moment, and the one on the right is it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.39: “However, if a vehicle, pedestrian,”

Who do you yield to at a roundabout?

All traffic already in the roundabout. Traffic inside the circle has nowhere to stop, so the waiting is done before you enter. California Driver’s Handbook, p.40: “Yield to all traffic already in the roundabout.”

Who counts as a pedestrian?

Anyone on foot, skates or a wheelchair. None of them has a bumper or a seat belt, which is what the whole rule turns on. California Driver’s Handbook, p.41: “These are considered pedestrians or vulnerable road users:”

When does a pedestrian with a white cane have the right-of-way?

At every crossing, all the time. They cannot see you coming, so the whole of the judgment has to be yours. California Driver’s Handbook, p.42: “Pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes have the right-of-way at all times.”

Which vehicle has the right-of-way on a steep narrow road?

The one facing uphill. The car pointing downhill can reverse under control; the one pointing uphill cannot. California Driver’s Handbook, p.42: “If two vehicles meet on a steep narrow road and neither vehicle can pass, the vehicle facing uphill has the right-of-way.”

How can you tell whether a truck driver can see you?

If you can see their side mirrors. The mirror test works both ways, which makes it the one check a driver can actually perform. California Driver’s Handbook, p.42: “If you cannot see the truck’s side mirrors, the truck driver cannot see you.”

What is a safety zone for?

Pedestrians waiting for a bus or streetcar. People stand in those strips with traffic on both sides and nothing between them and it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.43: “Safety zones are spaces set aside for pedestrians waiting for buses, streetcars, and trolleys.”

What rights does a light rail vehicle have on a public road?

The same as other vehicles. They are traffic like anything else, except that they cannot steer out of your way. California Driver’s Handbook, p.44: “On public roads, light rail vehicles have the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicles.”

What rights does a motorcyclist have?

The same as any other driver. A rider is a driver with less metal around them and the same claim on the lane. California Driver’s Handbook, p.44: “Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicle drivers.”

What do you do for an emergency vehicle using its siren and lights?

Pull to the right edge and stop. They are going somewhere that cannot wait, and the right edge is the one place they will not need. California Driver’s Handbook, p.45: “Give the right-of-way to any law enforcement vehicle, fire engine, ambulance, or other emergency vehicle using a siren and red lights.”

How fast do road maintenance vehicles carrying the slow-moving marker usually travel?

25 mph or less. The marker is there because closing speed is the thing a driver behind judges worst. California Driver’s Handbook, p.45: “Some slow-moving vehicles have an orange and red triangle on their back, such as road maintenance An example of a slow-moving vehicle.”

Who may share the road with motor vehicles?

Horse-drawn vehicles and riders. They have as much right to the road as you do, and a great deal less protection on it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.46: “Horse-drawn vehicles and people riding horses or other animals are allowed to share the road with motor vehicles.”

What rights does a bicyclist have on the road?

The same as other drivers. A rider in front of you is traffic, not an obstruction to be squeezed past. California Driver’s Handbook, p.46: “Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers.”

Which way must a bicyclist ride?

The same direction as traffic. Riding against traffic doubles the closing speed and puts the rider where nobody is looking. California Driver’s Handbook, p.47: “Obey all traffic signs, signal lights,”

How far must a bicycle’s front lamp be visible at night?

300 feet. The lamp is what turns a rider from a shadow into something a driver can pick out. California Driver’s Handbook, p.47: “A front lamp with a white light visible from 300 feet.”

Where must a slow-moving bicyclist ride?

As close as possible to the right edge. Keeping right leaves the rest of the lane for traffic that is moving faster. California Driver’s Handbook, p.47: “Bicyclists traveling slower than the flow of traffic must ride as close as possible to the right curb or edge of the road, unless:”

How much space must you leave when passing a bicyclist in the same lane?

At least three feet. Three feet is the wobble a rider needs when they hit a pothole you never saw. California Driver’s Handbook, p.48: “When you cannot change lanes to pass a bicyclist, allow at least three feet between your vehicle and the bicyclist.”

How should you drive through a work zone?

Slowly, with extra space around you. The lane markings, the lane widths and the traffic all change from one day to the next. California Driver’s Handbook, p.49: “Go through the work zone carefully by:”

What does a diamond-shaped placard on a truck mean?

The load may be dangerous. Knowing what is in the trailer changes how much room you want to leave around it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.50: “A diamond-shaped sign on a truck means that the truck’s load may be dangerous (gas, explosives, etc.).”

What does heavy traffic or bad weather require of your speed?

Driving more slowly than usual. The posted limit was set for a dry, empty road, which is not the road you are on. California Driver’s Handbook, p.50: “You must drive slower when there is heavy traffic or bad weather.”

Which lane must you use when towing a trailer?

The far-right lane of the road. A loaded trailer takes longer to speed up and much longer to stop than anything around it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.50: “You must drive in the far-right lane or a lane marked for slower vehicles when you:”

What is the speed limit within 500 feet of a school when children are out?

25 mph. A child who steps out gives you about a second, and 25 mph is what makes that second enough. California Driver’s Handbook, p.50: “The speed limit is 25 mph within 500 feet of a school while children are outside or crossing the street.”

What is the speed limit at a blind intersection?

15 mph. Nobody has to stop there, so the only thing keeping it safe is how slowly everybody arrives. California Driver’s Handbook, p.51: “An intersection is considered blind if it has no stop signs at any corner.”

What is the speed limit in an alley?

15 mph. An alley is barely wider than a car, with doors opening onto it from both sides. California Driver’s Handbook, p.51: “An alley is any road no wider than 25 feet that is used to access the rear or side entrances of buildings or properties.”

What is the speed limit in a residential district with no sign posted?

25 mph. Those are the streets with driveways, parked cars and people stepping out between them. California Driver’s Handbook, p.52: “Business or Residential Districts The speed limit is 25 mph, unless otherwise posted.”

What is the speed limit within 100 feet of a railroad crossing you cannot see along?

15 mph. If you cannot see down the track, the only safe speed is one you can stop from at once. California Driver’s Handbook, p.51: “The speed limit is 15 mph within 100 feet of a railroad crossing and you cannot see the tracks for 400 feet in both directions.”

What is the rule about smoking in a vehicle with a child in it?

It is against the law, and finable. A child in the back seat cannot get out, and the smoke has nowhere to go either. California Driver’s Handbook, p.52: “Not smoke when a minor is in the vehicle. You can be fined.”

What is the rule about hanging an object from the mirror?

It is not allowed at all. Anything dangling in front of the glass hides exactly the piece of road a child walks out of. California Driver’s Handbook, p.53: “Not put signs or other objects on the front windshield or side rear windows that block your view.”

What is the maximum county jail term for evading law enforcement?

One year. Running turns a ticket into a chase, and a chase is dangerous for everybody on the road. California Driver’s Handbook, p.53: “It is a misdemeanor to use a motor vehicle to flee or attempt to evade law enforcement performing their duties.”

What does signing a traffic ticket mean?

You promise to appear in court. The signature is the promise, and breaking it costs you the license rather than the case. California Driver’s Handbook, p.53: “If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer and cited (ticketed) for a traffic violation, you sign the ticket as a promise to appear in traffic court.”

What does traffic violator school keep a citation away from?

Your insurance company. The school keeps the ticket away from your premium. It does not wipe the record clean. California Driver’s Handbook, p.54: “If you are given a one-point traffic violation, the judge may offer you the choice to attend a traffic violator school to have the citation not reported to your insurance company but remain on your driver’s record.”

What is a driver with too many points called?

A negligent driver. The points are a count of how often you have already come close to something worse. California Driver’s Handbook, p.54: “If you have too many points on your driver’s record, you will be considered a negligent driver.”

Which period counts for a minor’s collisions and violations?

The first 12 months with the license. The first year is the one where a new driver is most likely to have the collision. California Driver’s Handbook, p.55: “If you get into collisions or commit traffic violations within the first 12 months of obtaining your minor’s driver’s license, DMV may restrict or suspend your driving privilege.”

How long do you have to request a hearing after being served notice?

10 days. Miss the date and the right disappears, whatever the case would have been. California Driver’s Handbook, p.55: “If you received notification that a proposed action is being taken against your driving privilege, you must request a hearing within 10 days of being served or 14 days from the date the notice is mailed.”

What can you submit about a driver you believe is no longer safe?

A Request for Driver Reexamination. It is a way to raise a worry without taking the keys yourself, and DMV does the looking. California Driver’s Handbook, p.56: “If you know someone who no longer drives safely, you may submit a Request for Driver Reexamination (DS 699) to DMV to review their driving qualifications.”

How far ahead should you scan the road?

At least 10 seconds. Ten seconds is about as far as you can act on. Anything closer is already happening. California Driver’s Handbook, p.57: “always keep your eyes moving and scan the road at least 10 seconds ahead of your vehicle.”

Which rule sets your following distance?

The three-second rule. Three seconds is how long it takes to see a problem, decide, and get on the brake. California Driver’s Handbook, p.57: “Use the three-second rule to ensure a safe following distance and avoid a collision.”

Why avoid driving directly alongside another vehicle?

You have nowhere to move if they swerve. Alongside another car you have a wall on one side and nowhere to go when something happens. California Driver’s Handbook, p.58: “Do not stay in another driver’s blind spot.”

Where are most vehicles’ blind spots?

At the sides, slightly behind the driver. The mirrors cover most of the road behind, and the piece they miss is beside your back door. California Driver’s Handbook, p.58: “Every vehicle has blind spots. These are areas around the vehicle that a driver cannot see when looking straight ahead or using the mirrors.”

What does checking behind you help you avoid?

Being hit from behind. The car behind decides what happens when you brake, and the mirror is how you meet it first. California Driver’s Handbook, p.59: “Knowing what is behind you can help you avoid rear-end collisions.”

How fast should you drive at night?

Slow enough to stop inside your headlight beam. If you cannot stop inside the beam, you are driving into a piece of road you have not seen. California Driver’s Handbook, p.59: “Make sure you can stop in the distance lit by your headlights.”

What helps most against sun glare?

A clean windshield and polarized glasses. A film of dust on the glass turns low sun into a wall of white you cannot see through. California Driver’s Handbook, p.60: “Keep the inside and outside of your windshield clean.”

What is a skid?

Tires losing traction and the car slipping. Once the tires let go, the steering wheel stops being connected to where the car goes. California Driver’s Handbook, p.60: “A skid is when one or more of the tires lose traction with the road and the vehicle starts to slip.”

What usually causes a locked wheel skid?

Braking too hard at too high a speed. A locked wheel is a sliding wheel, and a sliding wheel does not steer at all. California Driver’s Handbook, p.60: “A locked wheel skid is usually caused by braking too hard when you are going too fast.”

By how much should you reduce your speed on a wet road?

5 to 10 mph. Wet pavement takes a slice of your grip away, and the speed is how you pay it back. California Driver’s Handbook, p.61: “Wet road: Reduce your speed by 5 to 10 mph.”

What is hydroplaning?

The tires riding up on water. The tires are floating, so the steering and the brakes have nothing to push against. California Driver’s Handbook, p.62: “Hydroplaning is when a vehicle rides on water because the tires lose all contact with the road.”

How should the front wheels be pointed when you are stuck?

Straight ahead. Straight wheels push the car forward instead of digging a groove sideways. California Driver’s Handbook, p.62: “Shift into a low gear and keep the front wheels straight.”

Which of these is a danger of a flooded road?

Being swept off the road. Moving water lifts a car off the road with far less depth than anybody expects. California Driver’s Handbook, p.63: “Excessive water on a road may cause flooding.”

Which vehicles are most affected by high winds?

Trucks, campers and trailers. A gust pushes on the side of the car, and the faster you are going the less time you have. California Driver’s Handbook, p.63: “High winds can be a hazard while driving. This is especially true for larger vehicles such as trucks, campers, and vehicles with trailers.”

What is the best response to heavy fog?

Postpone the trip. Nothing you do in thick fog makes it safe. Waiting an hour does. California Driver’s Handbook, p.64: “It is best to avoid driving in heavy fog or smoke. Consider postponing your trip until the fog clears.”

What is a law enforcement traffic break?

An officer weaving across lanes to slow traffic. The weaving is what stops anybody slipping past into the hazard up ahead. California Driver’s Handbook, p.64: “During a traffic break, the officer turns on their emergency lights and slowly weaves across lanes.”

Who must wear a seat belt in your vehicle?

You and every passenger. The belt is what keeps you behind the wheel, where the steering and the brakes are. California Driver’s Handbook, p.65: “You and your passengers must wear seat belts.”

Below what weight must a child ride rear-facing?

40 pounds. A small child’s neck cannot hold their head in a crash, and facing backward is what supports it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.66: “Children who are under 2 years old, under 40 pounds, and under 3 feet 4 inches tall:”

How does an air bag compare with a seat belt?

It adds to what the belt does. They work with the belt rather than instead of it, which is why both are fitted. California Driver’s Handbook, p.67: “Air bags are a valuable safety feature on many vehicles. They can help keep you safer than a seat belt alone.”

Up to what age may a child not be left unattended in a vehicle?

Six years old. A small child alone in a car can release a brake, open a door, or be forgotten. California Driver’s Handbook, p.67: “It is illegal to leave a child who is six years old or younger unattended in a vehicle.”

What is California’s Basic Speed Law?

Never drive faster than is safe for conditions. The posted number is a ceiling, not a promise that the road will take it today. California Driver’s Handbook, p.67: “In California, you may never drive faster than is safe for the current road conditions.”

What do you do when hazards appear on both sides at once?

Give more room to the worse one. Splitting the difference gives neither hazard enough room, and one of them is worse. California Driver’s Handbook, p.68: “Sometimes dangers will be on both sides of the road at the same time.”

What must you avoid doing after a tire blowout?

Braking or lifting off suddenly. A blowout pulls the car to one side, and a sudden input pulls it further. California Driver’s Handbook, p.68: “If you have a tire blowout, do not panic or overreact. Suddenly braking or abruptly removing your foot from the accelerator can result in a loss of control over the vehicle.”

What are the first two things to do if your wheels drift off the pavement?

Grip the wheel and lift off the gas. Two wheels on gravel pull the car sideways, and a firm grip is what holds the line. California Driver’s Handbook, p.68: “Grip the steering wheel firmly.”

What should you switch off in extreme heat?

The air conditioner. The air conditioner takes power off the same engine that is already struggling to stay cool. California Driver’s Handbook, p.69: “In extreme heat, you should:”

Which side do you pull onto when your vehicle stops working on a freeway?

The right shoulder. The right shoulder is the side traffic is not passing on, and it is the only refuge there is. California Driver’s Handbook, p.69: “If your vehicle stops working on the freeway:”

Which way do you run from a vehicle stalled in front of an oncoming train?

Diagonally toward the train. Running toward the train, off to one side, keeps you clear of where the wreckage will be thrown. California Driver’s Handbook, p.70: “Immediately exit your vehicle. Run away from the tracks diagonally in the direction the train is coming from.”

Which of these does the handbook name as a common distraction?

Changing the music or volume. Each of them takes your eyes off the road for seconds you cannot get back. California Driver’s Handbook, p.70: “Avoid distractions while you drive. Some common distractions are:”

May a minor use a hands-free phone while driving?

No, not to take calls or text. A new driver has no attention to spare, so the law gives them no hands-free exception. California Driver’s Handbook, p.71: “It is against the law for a minor to use a cell phone or electronic wireless device to answer calls and send or respond to text messages while driving.”

What should you expect of a vehicle with driver assistance systems?

It may react differently than a person. The car beside you may brake for something you would have driven past, or not brake at all. California Driver’s Handbook, p.71: “The technology in vehicles is always advancing.”

What do California’s DUI laws cover?

Alcohol and drugs alike. What matters is whether you can still drive, not what it was that stopped you. California Driver’s Handbook, p.72: “California’s driving under the influence (DUI) laws apply to both alcohol and drugs.”

Who may not drink alcohol in a moving vehicle?

The driver and the passengers. The rule covers passengers as well, because an open container in a car is an open container. California Driver’s Handbook, p.72: “It is illegal to drink any alcohol, to smoke or eat a cannabis product while you are driving or riding as a passenger in a vehicle.”

What is the blood alcohol limit for a driver over 21?

A BAC of 0.08%. It is the line the state draws for an adult, and a breath test settles which side you are on. California Driver’s Handbook, p.73: “It is illegal for you to drive if you have a BAC of:”

What have you consented to by driving in California?

A breath, blood or urine test. The consent comes with the license, and it is not something you get to reconsider at the roadside. California Driver’s Handbook, p.74: “When you drive in California, you consent to a breath, blood, or urine test if a law enforcement officer suspects you of DUI.”

May a 19-year-old carry sealed alcohol in their car alone?

No, not without an adult over 21. It is not about drinking it. Carrying it at all is the offense for a driver under 21. California Driver’s Handbook, p.75: “You may not carry any alcohol beverage inside a vehicle unless an individual who is 21 years old or older is with you.”

When must you have proof of insurance with you?

Whenever you drive, and at a drive test. The other driver needs it at the roadside, which is why it belongs in the car and not at home. California Driver’s Handbook, p.76: “You must have your proof of financial responsibility (insurance) when you drive and for a drive test.”

How long can a suspension for driving uninsured last?

Four years. Fault does not come into it. What matters is whether the damage can be paid for. California Driver’s Handbook, p.76: “Your driving privilege will be suspended for up to four years if you are in a collision and do not have proper insurance coverage.”

Which of these is named as a most common cause of collisions?

Driver distractions. None of them is bad luck. Each is something the driver was doing at the time. California Driver’s Handbook, p.77: “The most common causes of collisions are:”

What must you always do if you are in a collision?

Stop at the scene of it. Driving away turns a traffic accident into a crime, whoever caused it. California Driver’s Handbook, p.77: “You must stop. Someone could be injured and need your help. Failing to stop or leaving the scene of an accident is called a hit-and-run.”

How long do you have to report a reportable collision to DMV?

10 days. A dented door reaches a thousand dollars quickly, and the ten days start at the collision. California Driver’s Handbook, p.78: “If you are in a collision, you must report it to DMV within 10 days if:”

What do you need before using a vehicle in California?

Registration in California. The registration ties the vehicle to a person, which is how anything about it gets settled later. California Driver’s Handbook, p.79: “You need to register your vehicle in California to use it in the state.”

Who can help you assess your own driving?

A trusted licensed driver. You cannot watch yourself drive, and somebody in the passenger seat can. California Driver’s Handbook, p.80: “If you are concerned about your driving, ask a trusted driver with a valid driver’s license to sit in the passenger seat and observe your driving.”

What can be the basis for a reexamination?

A condition or a poor record. Age by itself is not a reason, and the handbook says so in as many words. California Driver’s Handbook, p.80: “A physical or mental condition or poor driver’s record can be the basis for a reexamination, not a driver’s age.”

Which of these is a warning sign of an unsafe driver?

Getting lost in familiar places. The marks on the car are a record of the near misses nobody talked about. California Driver’s Handbook, p.82: “Here are some warning signs of an unsafe driver:”

Where these come from

Every rule here is checked against California Driver’s Handbook, published by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, and against the state code itself. Last checked 2026-09-21.