(62) California Driver's Handbook FULL & Concise OVERVIEW (2024) - HD Quick Exam Preparation & Review

Section One: The California Driver's License

A California driver's license grants legal permission to drive on public roads.
Applicants must pass knowledge and behind-the-wheel drive tests.
A non-commercial Class C license is needed for most people.

Real ID Driver's License

Beginning May 2025, a Real ID is required for:
- Boarding domestic flights
- Entering military bases
- Entering most federal facilities
Applying requires additional proof of identity and California residency.
Visit dmv.ca.gov/realled for document checklist and appointment information.

Driver's Licenses for Undocumented Residents

California offers driver's licenses to residents regardless of immigration status under AB60.
Applicants must meet testing and documentation requirements except for proof of legal presence.
More information is at dmv.ca.gov/dl.

Organ and Tissue Donor

Drivers can register as organ and tissue donors during license application or renewal.
A pink donor symbol on the card indicates this decision, which can be updated anytime.
Details are at donatelifeca.org.

Veteran Designation

Eligible military veterans may request a veteran designation on their license or ID card.
Applicants must present a DD214 verified by a county veteran service office.
The designation helps veterans access benefits without carrying discharge papers.

Identification Cards

DMV issues identification cards for residents of any age who do not need driving privileges.
Applicants provide the same identity, residency, and Social Security documents as required for a driver's license.
Reduced fee or no fee ID programs exist for seniors, low-income, and unhoused Californians.

Section Two: Getting an Instruction Permit and Driver's License

How to obtain an instruction permit and move toward a full California driver's license.

What You Need

Provide proof of identity, two proofs of California residency, and your Social Security number.
If your current name differs from your identity document, submit a legal name document such as a marriage certificate.
Real ID applicants must bring additional identity and residency documents as listed on dmv.ca.gov/realled.

Register to Vote

DMV transactions offer the option to register or update your voter information.
Eligibility requirements:
- United States citizen
- California resident
- At least 18 years old on election day
You may decline, but the prompt appears during every application for a license or ID.

Applying for an Instruction Permit

Complete the online driver's license and ID card application before visiting DMV.
Pay the non-refundable application fee, pass the knowledge test, and pass the vision screening.
Your permit becomes valid only after you begin driver training with a licensed instructor.

Additional Permit Requirements for Minors

Must be at least 15 and a half years old.
Driver education must be completed.
A parent or guardian must sign the application and accept financial responsibility.
You may not use the permit until a driver training instructor validates it.

Driving Schools

Driver education and behind-the-wheel training are available through DMV-licensed schools and some high schools.
Instructors must carry and show a DMV instructor identification card.
A list of licensed schools is available at dmv.ca/drivered.

Applying for a Driver's License

Practice driving with a California licensed driver who is at least 18 years old.
The supervisor must sit close enough to take control.
Schedule and pass the behind-the-wheel drive test in a safe, insured vehicle.
After passing, DMV issues a temporary license until the photo card arrives.

Additional License Requirements for Minors

Must be at least 16 years old.
Hold a valid instruction permit for at least six months.
Complete both driver education and driver training.
Log 50 practice hours with a licensed driver 25 or older, including 10 hours at night.
Parent or guardian signatures are required on driving logs and forms.

Minors Restrictions and Exceptions

During the first 12 months, you may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. or carry passengers under 20 unless accompanied by a licensed driver at least 25.
Restrictions do not apply when driving for:
- Medical necessity
- School activities
- Employment
- Immediate family needs (if the required signed note is carried)
A parent or guardian may cancel a provisional license by submitting a cancellation request to DMV.

Section Three: The Testing Process

Vision, knowledge, and behind-the-wheel tests required for every new driver.

Driver's License Tests

California DMV requires three evaluations:
- Vision test
- Knowledge test
- Behind-the-wheel drive test
Each test measures a different driving skill set: eyesight, road rule knowledge, and practical vehicle control.
Applicants must pass all tests to earn an original California driver's license.

Vision Test

All applicants must meet minimum visual acuity to drive safely.
Corrective lenses may be worn during the exam. If you need glasses or contacts to pass, your license will include a corrective lenses restriction.
Applicants who do not pass must have an eye doctor complete a report of vision examination form before retesting.

Knowledge Test

The multiple-choice knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
Applicants get three attempts; minors must wait seven days between tries.
Testing aids such as the handbook or cell phones are not permitted during the exam.

Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test

This practical exam measures your ability to operate a vehicle safely in real traffic.
Examiner instructions may contain multiple steps to verify that you can follow directions accurately.
Drivers renewing with certain vision or medical conditions may also be required to take this test.

On the Day of Your Behind-the-Wheel Test

Bring your instruction permit or existing driver's license and be accompanied by a California licensed driver aged 18 or older (25 for minors).
Provide a safe, insured, and properly registered vehicle.
Rental cars must list you on the agreement and allow DMV testing.
Failure to meet vehicle requirements, such as functioning brake lights or adequate tire tread, will result in the test being rescheduled.

Other Things to Know for Your Behind-the-Wheel Test

Only the DMV examiner may ride along, with limited exceptions for interpreters or service animals.
Recording devices must be disabled or blocked; video or audio recording during the test is prohibited.
Advanced driver assistance features like automated parking or adaptive cruise control may not be used; you must demonstrate manual control of the vehicle.

Section Four: Changing, Replacing, and Renewing Your Driver's License

How to change your personal information, replace a lost or damaged card, and keep your California driver's license valid.

Name or Address Changes

California law requires you to notify DMV of any address change within 10 days.
A license card is updated only when you apply for a replacement after filing the address change.
Legal name changes, such as marriage or court order, must be supported by certified documents.

Automatic Extension from Military Drivers

Active duty military members stationed outside California receive an automatic license extension through their term of service and up to 30 days after discharge.
Carry the DL236 card with your license to prove the extension.
Dependents do not receive the automatic extension and must renew by mail or online.

Lost or Stolen License or Identification Card

Apply for a duplicate as soon as you discover the loss to stay legal to drive.
Complete a driver's license application, pay the replacement fee, and provide a thumbprint and photo if DMV requires updated data.
The duplicate will display the same class, endorsements, and restrictions as the original card.

Replace a Damaged License

A card that is badly worn, broken, or unreadable must be replaced.
Follow the same steps as for a lost or stolen license: complete the application, pay the fee, and submit a new photo if DMV requests one.
Driving with an illegible or altered license can result in a citation.

Renewal Eligibility and Windows

Most driver licenses expire on the driver's birthday every five years.
DMV mails a renewal notice about 60 days before expiration. Ensure your address is current to receive it.
Some drivers, including commercial licenses and drivers with certain medical conditions, may have shorter renewal cycles.

Renewal Methods

Online renewal is the fastest when the notice includes a renewal identification number and your vision remains unchanged.
Mail renewal is available if DMV has your verified photograph and you meet notice requirements.
In-person renewal is required periodically for a new photo, thumbprint, and vision screening. Senior drivers may need a knowledge test.

DMV Now Kiosks

DMV Now kiosks in many grocery stores can process simple renewals and print an interim receipt.

Upgrading to Real ID

During renewal, you may convert to a Real ID driver's license at any renewal visit without paying an additional fee.
Bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and two different California residency documents.
Starting May 2025, a Real ID or passport is required to board domestic flights and enter most federal facilities.

Section Five: An Introduction to Driving

Core driving skills that transform classroom knowledge into safe vehicle control.

Pre-Drive Vehicle Check

Walk around the vehicle to spot flat tires, leaks, and obstacles near the wheels.
Verify that headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and windshield wipers operate correctly.
Remove anything from the dashboard or rear window that could block your view.

Seat and Mirror Adjustment

Adjust the seat so your chest is about 10 inches from the steering wheel and pedals can be pressed with a slight knee bend.
Set outside mirrors to show just a sliver of your vehicle while maximizing the adjacent lane view.
Tilt the inside mirror to frame the entire rear window.

Starting the Engine and Moving Off

Keep the service brake pressed while starting to prevent the car from rolling.
Select the correct gear, release the parking brake, and signal before entering traffic.
Accelerate smoothly to match the speed of surrounding vehicles.

Braking and Stopping

Use steady, progressive pressure on the brake pedal for smooth stops that conserve fuel and reduce wear.
Plan early stops by scanning for traffic lights, signs, and potential hazards ahead.
Rest the heel on the floor for stability while controlling the pedal.

Steering Control and Hand Position

Use the 9 and 3 hand position to maintain leverage and reduce injury risk from an airbag.
Apply push-pull steering for gradual curves and hand-over-hand only for tight, low-speed turns.
Keep thumbs relaxed on the outside of the wheel rim.

Lane Positioning

Stay centered between lane lines unless preparing for a turn or avoiding a hazard.
On multi-lane roads, choose the lane that best matches your speed and the road's design.
Signal and perform mirror and shoulder checks before changing lanes.

Scanning the Road Ahead

Look at least 12 seconds ahead in city traffic and farther on highways to identify potential conflicts.
Shift your eyes between the near path, side areas, and distant view to build a complete picture.
Check traffic signals early to adjust speed and avoid abrupt stops.

Mirrors and Blind Spots

Glance at mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds to monitor vehicles approaching from behind.
Turn your head quickly to check blind spots before any lateral move.
Avoid driving in another driver's blind spot. Adjust speed to stay visible.

Basic Turning Techniques

Signal at least 100 feet before turning and maintain a steady speed through the maneuver.
Keep the front wheel straight while waiting to turn left so a rear impact does not push you into oncoming traffic.
Finish the turn in the correct lane without drifting over lane markings.

Backing and Parking Basics

Before backing, look over your right shoulder through the rear window. Use mirrors only as a supplement.
Back slowly with the foot covering the brake pedal and stop immediately if vision is obstructed.
When parking, straighten wheels and set the parking brake every time.

Section Six: Navigating the Roads

Techniques for reading lane markings, choosing the correct lane, making safe turns, and parking legally.

Traffic Lanes

A traffic lane is the portion of roadway designated for a single line of moving vehicles.
Staying centered keeps clear space on both sides and reduces sideswipe risk.
Drifting across lane lines is a frequent cause of enforcement stops.

Lane Markings

Painted lines and symbols indicate where to drive, pass, or stop.
Obeying markings prevents collisions and citations.
Read markings early so you can plan legal maneuvers.

Single Solid Yellow Line

Marks the center of a two-way road.
You may cross it only to turn left into or out of a driveway or alley when safe.
Passing another vehicle across a solid yellow line is prohibited.

Double Solid Yellow Lines

Separate opposite directions of traffic and prohibit passing in either direction.
You may cross for a legal left turn or permitted U-turn only.
Treat the double line as a physical barrier and stay in your lane.

Single Solid White Line

Marks the right edge of the roadway or separates lanes moving in the same direction.
Crossing is discouraged but not always illegal; move only when necessary and safe.
Use the edge line as a guide at night or in poor weather.

Double Solid White Lines

Create a lane barrier that must not be crossed, often bordering carpool lanes or on-ramp lanes to separate traffic flows.
Wait for a dashed line if you need to change lanes.

Broken White Lines

Separate lanes moving in the same direction.
You may change lanes across them when it is safe. Always signal and check mirrors and blind spots before moving.

End of Lane Markings

Wide broken lines warn that your lane is ending or exiting.
Prepare to merge early rather than forcing a last-second move.
Match the speed of the lane you are joining and leave space.

Yield Line

A row of solid white triangles indicates where you must yield.
Stop behind the triangles if required by signs or crossing traffic.
Allow pedestrians and cyclists to clear before proceeding.

Choosing a Lane

Left lanes generally carry faster traffic and serve passing maneuvers.
Slower vehicles should travel in the right lanes to keep traffic flowing.
Select your exit lane early to avoid abrupt lane changes.

Changing Lanes

Signal, use mirrors, and glance over your shoulder before every lane change.
Do not change lanes in an intersection; complete the move before or after.
Move smoothly without sudden swerves or speed changes.

Types of Lanes

California roads include regular, carpool, center turn, bicycle, and passing lanes. Each lane type has distinct markings and rules for entry and exit.
Knowing the differences helps you avoid tickets and maintain smooth traffic flow.

Carpool or HOV Lanes

Identified by a white diamond symbol and roadside signs, require a minimum number of occupants or an eligible clean air decal during posted hours.
Enter or exit only where the line separating the lane is broken.

Center Left Turn Lanes

Bordered by solid and broken yellow lines for left turns or U-turns.
Travel no more than 200 feet in the lane before turning.
Never use this lane for passing or merging with general traffic.

Turnout Areas or Lanes

Provide space for slower drivers to let traffic pass on narrow or winding roads.
Use a turnout if five or more vehicles are following you.
Re-enter traffic only when there is a safe gap.

Bicycle Lanes

Reserved primarily for cyclists.
Drivers may enter within 200 feet of a right turn.
Buffered or protected lanes add extra separation for safety. Always check for bicycles before crossing the lane.

Turns

General signal at least 100 feet before the turn.
Slow to a safe speed and scan for pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
Complete the turn in the correct lane without cutting corners.

Right Turns

Begin and end in the rightmost lane unless signs allow multiple lane turns.
Stop fully before turning right on red unless a sign prohibits it.
Watch for cyclists or buses occupying the curb lane.

Left Turns

Position near the center divider and keep wheels straight while waiting to turn.
Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians until a safe gap appears.
Turn into the lane closest to the center divider unless arrows direct otherwise.

U-Turns

Permitted at green lights and across double yellow lines when it is safe and legal.
Illegal on one-way streets, at railroad crossings, and where signs prohibit.
You must see at least 200 feet in both directions before making a U-turn.

Roundabouts

Yield to traffic already in the circle, then enter when there is a safe gap.
Drive counterclockwise and do not stop inside the roundabout.
Signal before exiting to inform drivers and cyclists behind you.

Braking

Apply smooth, gradual pressure rather than abrupt stops.
Plan stops early by scanning ahead for signals and hazards.
Hard braking can startle drivers behind you and waste fuel.

Merging and Exiting

Match the speed of freeway traffic while using the on-ramp acceleration lane. Signal and merge into a gap without stopping at the end of the ramp.
When exiting, signal early and enter the deceleration lane at a safe speed.

Passing

Pass on the left only when you have enough space to return safely.
Return to your lane when you can see the front of the passed vehicle in your rearview mirror.
Do not pass over solid lines, in intersections, or on hills with limited sight distance.

Being Passed

Maintain a steady speed and stay in your lane while another vehicle passes.
Do not accelerate until the passing vehicle has returned to your lane. If necessary, reduce speed slightly to help the other driver complete the maneuver safely.

Parking

Always set the parking brake and remove the key before leaving the vehicle.
Check mirrors and look over your shoulder for pedestrians or cyclists before opening doors.
Do not park where signs prohibit.

Parking on a Hill

Turn wheels toward the curb when parked downhill and away from the curb when uphill.
Always set the parking brake regardless of slope. If there is no curb, turn wheels toward the edge of the road.

Parking at Colored Curbs

Red means no stopping, yellow is for commercial loading, white is for passenger loading, blue is for vehicles displaying a disabled placard, and green curbs allow time-limited parking as posted. Understand curb colors to avoid fines or towing.

Illegal Parking

It is illegal to park in front of fire hydrants, in crosswalks, or within 7 and a half feet of railroad tracks. Keep 15 feet of clearance from fire hydrants at all times. Violations may result in immediate towing and fines.

Electric Vehicles

Certain parking spaces are reserved for charging electric vehicles only. Blocking an electric vehicle charger can lead to a citation or towing. Observe posted charging time limits so others can use the station.

Driving Green

Smooth acceleration and steady speeds improve fuel economy and reduce emissions.
Maintain correct tire pressure and remove unnecessary weight. Regular maintenance keeps the engine operating efficiently.

Law Enforcement Stops

Pull over to the right and stop safely when signaled by law enforcement. Keep hands visible and follow the officer's instructions. Provide license, registration, and proof of insurance upon request.

Your Rights During the Enforcement Stop

Officers must state the reason for the stop before questioning. You may decline a vehicle search unless the officer has probable cause or a warrant. Remain polite and comply with lawful orders to keep the situation calm.

DMV Kiosks

DMV Now kiosks allow simple transactions such as registration renewals without waiting in line. Most kiosks provide printed documentation you can place in the vehicle immediately. Check dmv.ca.gov for kiosk locations and services.

Section Seven: Laws and Rules of the Road

State laws and right-of-way rules that govern every driver on California roads.

Right-of-Way Fundamentals

Yield to pedestrians and stopped emergency vehicles, even when you have a green light.
At intersections without signs, slow and be prepared to stop for anyone already in the intersection. When two vehicles arrive at a stop sign at the same time, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right.

Pedestrians and Crosswalks

Drivers must stop for anyone in a marked or unmarked crosswalk until the person has safely passed.
Always yield to people using a white cane or a guide dog. Do not overtake or pass a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk.

Way and Always Stops

The first vehicle to stop is the first to go through the intersection.
If two vehicles arrive together, the driver on the right proceeds first. Left-turning traffic yields to oncoming vehicles moving straight.

Through Roundabouts

Yield to traffic already inside the circle, then enter when there is a sufficient gap.
Travel counterclockwise and do not stop inside the roundabout. Signal before exiting to tell others which direction you will take.

Mountain Roads

When two vehicles meet on a steep road, the vehicle facing downhill must yield and back up until the vehicle going uphill can pass.
Use turnout areas to allow faster traffic to pass if you are moving slowly. Drive at a safe speed and use lower gears to control braking on long descents.

Basic Speed Law

Never drive faster than is safe for existing conditions, even if below the posted limit.
Slow for curves, rain, fog, ice, heavy traffic, or road construction. Posted limits show the maximum speed under ideal conditions.

Maximum and Minimum Speed Limits

Highways are usually limited to 65 mph but may be 70 where posted. Residential and business areas are generally 25 mph unless posted otherwise. Driving too slowly can also be unsafe.

School Bus Safety Zones

When a school bus displays flashing red lights, traffic in both directions must stop until the lights stop flashing. Yellow lights mean the bus is preparing to stop.
On a divided highway with a raised median, only traffic behind the bus must stop.

Railroad and Light Rail Crossings

Stop at least 15 feet from the tracks when the crossing lights flash or gates are lowered. Never stop on the tracks.
Ensure space exists beyond the crossing before you proceed. Light rail crossings use similar signals and must be treated with the same caution.

Emergency Vehicles and the Move Over Law

When an emergency vehicle approaches with siren or flashing red lights, pull to the right edge of the road and stop. On freeways, move one lane away or slow for stopped emergency or tow trucks with flashing lights.
Failing to yield can lead to fines and points on your driving record.

Parking Rules and Restrictions

Red curbs mean no stopping, standing, or parking at any time. Yellow curbs are for commercial loading, white for passenger loading, and green for time-limited parking. Never park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant or 7 and a half feet of railroad tracks.

Turning, Signaling, and Lane Use

Signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes. Complete left turns into the lane closest to the center divider unless arrows direct otherwise.
Signal and move completely into a bike lane within 200 feet of making a right turn.

Section Eight: Safe Driving

Safe driving habits for city streets, freeways, and changing weather.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Keep your eyes moving and watch the road ahead, to each side, and behind your vehicle. Develop a habit of checking mirrors every few seconds to stay informed about surrounding traffic. Adjust speed and lane position early when you spot hazards.

Scan Your Surroundings

Look 15 seconds ahead in city traffic and farther on high-speed roads. Search for brake lights several vehicles ahead to anticipate slowdowns.
Glance left and right at intersections even when you have the right of way.

Tailgating

Use the 3-second rule: pick a fixed point the car ahead passes and count 1, 1000 to 300 before you arrive. Increase the gap to four or more seconds at highway speeds or in poor weather.
If another driver tailgates you, move to another lane or reduce speed slightly to encourage passing.

Know What is at Your Side

Avoid driving in other vehicles' blind spots. Adjust speed or change lanes to stay visible.
Give emerging traffic room to enter and maintain a cushion when passing parked cars or cyclists. Keep at least one open space beside you when possible to allow an escape path.

Blind Spots

Traditional mirrors do not show areas directly beside and slightly behind your car. Turn your head quickly to check before changing lanes or merging.
Large trucks and buses have larger blind spots; pass quickly and safely.

Know What is Behind You

Check the rearview mirror before slowing or turning and after changing lanes. Tap your brake pedal early to signal following drivers when preparing to stop.
Be aware of fast-approaching vehicles and adjust speed gradually to avoid rear-end collisions.

Driving in Darkness

Use high-beam headlights on open roads when there is no oncoming traffic. Dim them within 500 feet of other vehicles.
Never outrun your headlights; drive at a speed that allows you to stop within the distance you can see. Watch the edges of the roadway for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals.

Sunglare

Wear polarized sunglasses and keep the inside and outside of the windshield clean. Slow down near sunrise and sunset when glare is strongest and traffic signals are harder to see.
Allow a greater following distance and be ready for sudden stops.

Skids

Ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking when a skid begins. Steer gently toward the intended path of travel until traction returns. Practice skid recovery in a safe open area to build confidence.

Slippery Roads

Rain, snow, and ice reduce traction. Slow down and increase following distance. The first rain after a dry spell is especially slick because oil rises to the surface.
Shaded bridges and overpasses freeze before other road surfaces.

Hydroplaning

Tires can lose contact with the road at speeds as low as 35 mph on standing water. Reduce speed, avoid sudden steering, and do not brake hard if you feel the vehicle riding on water.
Maintain good tire tread depth and correct inflation to reduce the risk.

Stuck in Snow or Mud

Rock the vehicle gently forward and backward in low gear without spinning the wheels. Place traction aids such as boards or sand under drive wheels. If rocking fails, call for professional assistance.

Flooded Roads

Six inches of water can stall a car; one foot can carry it away. Turn around and find another route if water covers the roadway. Watch for hidden debris and avoid driving through moving water.

High Winds

Grip the steering wheel firmly and prepare for gusts that can push the vehicle sideways. Give extra room to high-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and recreational vehicles. Consider delaying travel when wind advisories are in effect.

Fog or Heavy Smoke

Use low beam headlights; high beams reflect off moisture and reduce visibility. Drive slowly enough to stop within the distance you can see ahead.
If vision becomes too limited, pull off the roadway, turn on hazard lights, and wait for conditions to improve.

Law Enforcement Traffic Breaks on Freeways

Officers may weave across lanes to slow traffic. Turn on hazard lights and match the speed. Do not pass the patrol car until directed or the lights turn off. Traffic breaks clear hazards or smooth the flow during congestion.

Protect Yourself and Passengers

Wear seat belts and ensure all passengers buckle up before moving. Secure loose cargo that could shift in a sudden stop. Sit at least 10 inches from airbags to reduce injury risk during deployment.
The seat belt should be low across the hips, and the shoulder belt crosses the chest and rests on the collarbone. Never tuck the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. Drivers are responsible for making sure passengers under 16 are properly secured.

Child Restraints

Children under two or weighing less than 40 lbs must ride in a rear-facing car seat. Children under 8 or shorter than 4'9" require an appropriate child safety seat or booster. Install seats according to the manufacturer's instructions and check fit regularly.

Airbags

Airbags inflate rapidly to protect occupants in severe collisions. Children under 12 are safest in the rear seat to avoid airbag injuries. Sit upright and keep hands on the steering wheel rim, not in the hub.

Unattended Children and Pets

It is illegal to leave a child six or younger unattended in a vehicle unless supervised by someone at least 12. Interior temperatures can rise quickly and cause heat stroke. First responders may forcibly enter a vehicle to rescue endangered occupants.

Manage Your Speed

Obey posted limits and adjust speed for weather, traffic, and visibility. The basic speed law prohibits driving faster than is safe for current conditions. Maintaining a steady legal speed saves fuel and reduces emissions.

Choose Between Hazards

When faced with multiple hazards, adjust speed to handle them one at a time. Give more room to vulnerable users such as cyclists and pedestrians, even when you have the right of way. Plan escape paths by keeping space on at least one side of your vehicle.

Handle Emergencies

Stay calm, signal, and steer smoothly away from danger. Use hazard flashers and reflective triangles if you stop on the roadside. Call for assistance as soon as it is safe to do so.

Tire Blowout

Hold the steering wheel firmly and let the vehicle slow gradually without braking hard. Steer straight and pull off the roadway when speed permits. Change the tire in a safe area or call roadside assistance.

Driving Off the Pavement

Ease off the accelerator, keep steering straight, and brake gently after checking traffic. Steer back onto the pavement at a low speed and shallow angle. Avoid jerking the wheel, which could shoot the vehicle across lanes.

Disabled Vehicle on Freeway

Signal and move to the shoulder or emergency parking area. Stay inside with seat belts fastened if stopped close to traffic. Use call boxes or mobile phones to request the freeway service patrol during posted hours.

Disabled Vehicle on Railroad Tracks

Exit immediately and run toward the direction of the oncoming train to avoid debris. Call the emergency number posted at the crossing, then 911. Do not attempt to push the vehicle off the tracks if a train is approaching.

Do Not Drive Distracted

Keep eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and mind on driving. Set climate controls, audio, and navigation before moving. Secure animals and coach passengers to avoid in-car distractions.

Cell Phones and Texting

Handheld phone use is illegal; hands-free use is allowed for adults with minimal interaction. Texting or reading messages while driving greatly increases crash risk. Pull off the road safely before making or taking calls that require attention.

Minors and Cell Phones

Drivers under 18 may not use any electronic communication device while driving except for emergencies. Violations result in citations and may extend the provisional licensing period. Set phones to do not disturb while driving before each trip.

Be Familiar with New Technology

Understand the limitations of driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping. Remain alert and ready to take control at all times. Consult the owner's manual for proper use and maintenance of technology.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness

Never run the engine in an enclosed garage; odorless gas can cause illness or death. Fix exhaust system leaks promptly. No symptoms of poisoning include headache, dizziness, and nausea; seek fresh air immediately.

Section Nine: Alcohol and Drugs

How alcohol and drugs affect driving and California DUI laws.

Alcohol's Effects on Driving

Alcohol slows brain function, reduces judgment, and lengthens reaction time. Vision blurs, and the ability to track moving objects declines. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair safe driving skills.

Blood Alcohol Concentration Limits

Adults aged 21 and older: legal limit is 0.08%.
Commercial drivers: legal limit is 0.04%.
Drivers under 21 and those on DUI probation: zero tolerance limit of 0.01%.

DUI Arrest Process

An officer must observe driving behavior or a violation that provides probable cause. Field sobriety tests and preliminary breath tests are used roadside. Refusal to submit leads to arrest and administrative license suspension.

Chemical Test Choices and Refusal Penalties

After arrest, California's implied consent law requires a breath or blood test. Refusal triggers a one-year suspension for a first offense, longer for prior refusals or DUI convictions.
A warrant may authorize a forced blood draw in cases involving injury or death.

DUI Conviction Penalties

First conviction penalties can include fines over $2,000$ , up to 6 months in jail, and a six