California Driver's Handbook Flashcards

Flashcards based on the 2024 California Driver's Handbook to help you study for the knowledge test.

What is the purpose of a California driver’s license?

It allows you to drive on public roads.

What tests are required before obtaining a driver’s license in California?

You are required to pass the knowledge and behind-the-wheel drive tests.

When will a driver's license or ID card need to be REAL ID compliant?

Beginning May 2025

What activities will a REAL ID compliant driver's license or ID card be used for?

Boarding an airplane for domestic flights, entering military bases, and entering most federal facilities.

What must you provide when applying for an instruction permit or driver’s license?

Proof of identity, two proofs of residency, a legal full name document, and a Social Security number.

When can minors use their instruction permit?

Minors can only use their permit once they start behind-the-wheel driver training with an instructor who will validate the permit.

What are the restrictions for provisional drivers?

Provisional drivers cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. during the first 12 months and cannot have passengers under 20 years old unless a licensed driver over 25 is present.

What are the steps for a Class C instruction permit application?

Complete an application, provide required documents, pay the non-refundable fee, pass the knowledge test(s), and pass a vision test.

What restrictions apply to drivers under 18?

Cannot drive between 11 PM and 5 AM for the first 12 months, or transport passengers under 20, unless supervised. There are also restrictions for pay

What happens if you fail the knowledge test three times?

You must reapply.

What are some of the vehicle components a DMV examiner will ask you to locate and demonstrate?

Driver window, windshield, rearview mirrors, brake lights, tires, foot brake, horn, emergency (parking) brake, turn/arm signals, windshield wipers, and seat belts.

When must you notify the DMV of a new address?

Within ten days of moving

What can fatigue and drowsiness affect?

Vision and reaction time to hazards

What is required for physicians to report to the DMV?

Physicians are required to report patients, who are at least 14 years old, to DMV if they believe you have medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive safely, such as lapse of consciousness.

When should you signal when turning?

At least 100 feet before the turn

When should you dim your high-beam headlights?

Within 500 feet of a vehicle coming toward you or within 300 feet of a vehicle you are following.

What actions should you take if you can see a collision or hazard ahead?

Turn on your emergency flashers, lightly tap your brake pedal three or four times, and use a hand signal when slowing and stopping.

What does a single solid yellow line indicate?

Marks the center of a road with two-way traffic; do not pass if it's on your side.

What do double solid yellow lines indicate?

Do not pass over these lines. Stay to the right of these lines.

What does a broken yellow line indicate?

You may pass if the broken line is next to your driving lane. Only pass when it is safe.

What does a single solid white line indicate?

Marks traffic lanes going in the same direction, including one-way streets.

What is the process for making a right turn?

Drive close to the right edge of the road, signal 100 feet before, look over your right shoulder, reduce speed, stop behind the limit line, and turn when it is safe into the right lane.

When can you turn right against a red light?

After a complete stop, unless there is a 'No Turn on Red' sign, and after yielding to pedestrians and traffic.

When is it illegal to make a dedicated right turn?

You may make your turn even if there is a red light for vehicles going straight through the intersection if there is a dedicated lane.

How many feet can you drive in a center left turn lane?

200 Feet

When should you yield on a two-lane road into special turnout areas?

When you are driving slowly on a two-lane road, where passing is unsafe, and there are five or more vehicles following you.

What type of lines or markings indicate bicycle lanes?

Typically marked by a single solid white line and signs and sometimes are painted bright green to make them easier to see.

What is a key action to take before merging and/or exiting onto a highway?

Signal, look over your shoulder to check your blind spots. When merging make sure you can stop safely by leaving three seconds of space between you and the vehicle in front of you.

When should you not pass another vehicle?

If you are approaching a hill or curve and cannot see if other traffic is approaching, and within 100 feet of an intersection.

What does it mean to parallel park?

When you park in line with the road and other parked vehicles.

Where should wheels be turned when parking on a sloping driveway?

Turn the wheels so the vehicle will not roll into the street, leave the vehicle in park, and set the parking brake.

What conditions exist when an officer can legally require all occupants to exit a vehicle?

An officer can legally require the driver and all passengers to exit a vehicle during a traffic stop.

What do blue curb markings indicate?

Parking for a disabled driver.

How far can a cargo extend from the back-rear bumper?

Cargo that extends more than 4 feet from the back-rear bumper of the vehicle must display a 12-inch red or fluorescent orange square flag.

What is the punishment for a hit-and-run?

The punishment is severe if you are convicted of a hit-and-run.