California Driving Rules and Regulations

Flashcards about California driving rules and regulations

What does a red octagon-shaped sign indicate?

It means STOP. You must make a full stop at the limit line, crosswalk, or before entering the intersection.

What does a yellow diamond-shaped sign signify?

It serves as a warning for specific road conditions or hazards ahead.

What is the meaning of a solid double yellow line?

It indicates no passing. You may not cross these lines unless turning left at an intersection or into/out of a driveway or private road.

What does a white curb mean?

It designates an area for loading or unloading passengers only.

At a 4-way stop, who has the right-of-way?

The first vehicle to stop has the right-of-way. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the right goes first.

When must you yield to pedestrians?

Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked.

What should you do when an emergency vehicle approaches with flashing lights?

Pull over to the right edge of the road and stop until the vehicle has passed.

What is the speed limit in a school zone when children are present?

25 mph, unless otherwise posted.

What is the default speed limit in residential areas?

25 mph, unless signs indicate otherwise.

What is the maximum speed limit on most California highways?

65 mph, or 70 mph where posted.

When are you required to use your headlights?

From 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, or when visibility is poor.

What should you do if your vehicle starts to hydroplane?

Ease off the accelerator, do not brake, and steer straight until you regain traction.

What does a flashing red traffic light mean?

It means STOP. Proceed only when it’s safe, following the same rules as a stop sign.

What is the legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit for drivers under 21?

0.01% or higher is illegal.

Can you drive after taking prescription medication?

Only if it doesn’t impair your ability to drive safely.

How far must you park from a fire hydrant?

At least 15 feet away.

Is it legal to park in front of a driveway?

No, it’s illegal to block driveways.

What does a red-painted curb indicate?

No stopping, standing, or parking at any time.

Can you turn right on a red light?

Yes, after making a complete stop and ensuring it’s safe, unless a sign prohibits it.

When making a left turn, who must you yield to?

Oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, and any traffic lawfully in the intersection.

What is the purpose of an HOV lane?

It's designated for vehicles with 2 or more occupants, motorcycles, buses, and low-emission vehicles during posted hours.

At what age can you apply for a California instruction permit?

At 15½ years old, with completion of a driver education program.

What are the driving restrictions for minors during the first 12 months of holding a license?

No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., and no passengers under 20 years old unless accompanied by a licensed adult over 25.

How many hours of supervised driving are required for minors before taking the driving test?

50 hours, including 10 hours at night, with a licensed adult over 25.

You are approaching a school bus with flashing red lights on the opposite side of a divided highway. What should you do?

Continue driving — you are not required to stop

When two vehicles meet on a steep mountain road where neither can pass, which vehicle must yield and back up?

The vehicle going downhill

You must dim your high-beam headlights to low beams when you are within how many feet of an oncoming vehicle?

500 feet

When are roads most slippery?

The first few minutes of rainfall

You can make a left turn on red when:

From a one-way street onto a one-way street unless prohibited

You should increase the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead when you:

Are being tailgated by another driver.

You want to make a right turn at an upcoming intersection. You should slow down and:

Signal for 100 feet before turning.

A person may legally ride in the back of a pickup truck when:

In a secured seat and while using an approved safety belt.

Which of these statements is true about drugs and driving?

Even over-the-counter drugs can impair your driving

When driving at night on a dimly lit street, you should:

Drive slowly enough that you can stop within the area illuminated by your headlights.

This sign means:

Pedestrian crossing ahead.

If you are about to be hit from the rear, you should not:

Release your seat belt

If you park facing uphill on a street with a curb, set the parking brake and:

Turn the front wheels away from the curb

This sign means:

Roadwork or maintenance is present.

You must notify the DMV within five days if you:

Sell or transfer your vehicle.

You see a flashing yellow traffic signal at an upcoming intersection. The flashing yellow light means:

Slow down and cross the intersection carefully

Give the right-of-way to any pedestrian who is:

Crossing any street.

California's "Basic Speed Law" says you must:

Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions.