DMV Handbook 🚗✨

Page 1: Requirements for Minors Applying for a Driver's License

  • To apply for a driver's license if under 18:

    • Must be at least 15.5 years old.

    • Complete a driver education program.

    • Parent/guardian must approve the application and accept financial responsibility:

      • If parents share joint custody, both must sign.

    • Wait to use your instruction permit until behind-the-wheel training begins with a validated instructor.

Driver Education and Training

  • Driver education programs available through:

    • DMV-licensed driving schools.

    • Some high schools.

  • Instructors must carry an ID card (request to see it).

  • More info on selecting a driving school:

    • DMV website: dmv.ca.gov/driver-ed

Steps to Obtain a Driver's License After Instruction Permit

  • Requirements include:

    • Practice driving with a California-licensed driver at least 18 years old (25 for minors).

      • Driver must be close enough to take control.

    • Pass a behind-the-wheel drive test.

  • If under 18:

    • Must:

      • Be at least 16 years old.

      • Hold instruction permit for at least 6 months.

      • Prove completion of driver education and training.

      • Practice driving for at least 50 hours (10 hours at night).

Additional Resources

  • For complete application steps and requirements, visit:

    • DMV driver's license page: dmv.ca.gov/dlservices.

    • Includes Parent Teen Driving Contract and Driving Performance Evaluation (DPE) Score Sheet.

Page 2: Minor's Restrictions and Exceptions

  • Provisional driver's license restrictions:

    • No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. for first 12 months.

    • Passengers under 20 not allowed unless accompanied by parent/guardian or licensed driver (at least 25).

    • Cannot drive for pay or operate vehicles needing a commercial Class A, B, or C license.

  • Exceptions to restrictions:

    • Medical need (requires a physician's note).

    • Schooling/school activities (note from principal).

    • Work-related reasons (note from employer).

    • Immediate family member driving (note from parent/legal guardian).

  • Note: Parent/guardian may cancel the teen's license.

Page 3: The Testing Process for Driver's License

Overview of Driver's License Tests

  1. Vision Test:

    • Tests eyesight for safe driving capability.

    • Corrective lenses restriction if used.

    • Fail requires a Report of Vision Examination form.

  2. Knowledge Test:

    • Mandatory for original license applicants.

    • Three attempts allowed before reapplication.

    • Minors must wait 7 days to retake a failed knowledge test.

    • No testing aids allowed.

  3. Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test:

    • Evaluates safe driving abilities in various conditions.

    • Applicants may face multiple instructions from the examiner to test comprehension and execution.

Scheduling a Drive Test

  • Schedule via DMV website: dmv.ca.gov/make-an-appointment.

Page 4: Requirements for Behind-the-Wheel Test

Day of Test Requirements

  • Must bring:

    • Instruction permit or driver’s license.

    • Licensed driver (18 for adults, 25 for minors).

    • Safe vehicle for testing.

    • Valid proof of insurance and registration.

    • If renting, name must be on contract, not excluded.

  • Pre-test checks by DMV examiner include:

    • Driver's side window, visibility of windshield, rearview mirrors, operational brake lights, tire condition, foot brake clearance.

    • Functioning horn, emergency (parking) brake, signal controls, windshield wipers, and seat belts.

  • Note: Non-compliance leads to rescheduling of the test.

Page 5: Use of Interpreters and Technology During the Test

Test Conditions

  • Interpreters allowed for pre-drive inspection but not during the drive.

  • No recording devices permitted during the test.

  • The drive test evaluates skills across diverse driving scenarios, ensuring proficiency beyond vehicle technology such as assistance systems.

  • Some safety technologies can be used, but are no substitute for manual checks of surroundings.

  • For more info on Driving Performance Evaluation (DPE) Score Sheet, visit: dmv.ca.gov/teendriver.

Page 6: Changing, Replacing, and Renewing Your Driver's License

Name and License Updates

  • To update personal information like name or description, visit: dmv.ca.gov/dlservices.

Change of Address

  • Must inform DMV of address change within ten days:

    • Use DMV website for online change or request new license.

Replacing or Renewing License

  • Driving with an expired license is illegal.

  • Renew or replace lost or damaged credentials online or at a DMV office.

  • Minor needs parent/guardian's signature.

Extensions

  • If out-of-state, a one-year extension may be requested.

  • Limited-term licenses are not eligible for extensions.

Page 7: Introduction to Driving and Health Considerations

Health Factors Affecting Driving

  • Vision:

    • Required to perceive hazards and read road signs.

  • Hearing:

    • Critical for detecting alerts from vehicles, sirens, etc.

  • Fatigue/Drowsiness:

    • Impairs reaction time.

  • Physical/Mental Alertness:

    • Vital for making quick decisions on the road.

  • Medications:

    • Know the impacts of prescribed and over-the-counter medications.

Vehicle Control Techniques

  • Key driving technique includes maintaining both hands on the steering wheel:

  • Hand-to-Hand Steering:

    • Hand positions at 9 and 3 o'clock.

    • Avoid crossing hands.

Page 8: Steering Techniques and Signals

Steering Techniques

  • Hand-Over-Hand Steering:

    • Suitable for low-speed maneuvers and parking.

    • Requires reaching across the steering wheel.

  • One-Hand Steering:

    • Only necessary when backing up or using vehicle controls.

Signaling and Communication

  • Always signal during maneuvers:

    • Turning, changing lanes, slowing down, or stopping.

  • Use both signal lights and hand signals if needed.

Page 9: Proper Signaling Practices

Signaling Protocols

  • Signal well in advance (at least 100 feet before turns).

  • Always turn off signals after completing the maneuver.

  • Use your horn to communicate presence or alert others to hazards, particularly in specific situations (e.g., narrow roads).

Page 10: Emergency Flashers and Hazard Awareness

Using Emergency Flashers

  • Activate when:

    • Recognizing a hazard ahead or in case of vehicle trouble.

  • If stopping, ensure you pull off the road where visible to other drivers.

Page 11: Traffic Lanes and Markings

Understanding Traffic Lanes

  • Lane Markings:

    • Solid lines dictate no passing.

    • Broken lines indicate permitted passing.

  • Types of Markings:

    • Single/Dual solid lines for direction and separation of traffic.

Page 12: Lane Changing Protocols

Lane Changing Guidelines

  • Always signal, check mirrors, and blind spots before changing lanes.

  • Do not weave in and out of traffic.

Page 13: Choosing and Understanding Lane Types

Lane Usage

  • Use left lanes for passing or turning left, and right lanes for entering or exiting.

  • Be aware of passing lanes, HOV lanes, and their specific requirements (e.g., occupancy)

Page 14: HOV Lanes and Center Left Turn Lanes

HOV Lane Regulations

  • HOV lanes reserved for carpoolers or vehicles with specific decals.

  • Center Left Turn Lane:

    • Use this lane only for preparing to turn left.

Page 15: Bicycle Lanes Regulations

Bicycle Lane Rules

  • Bicycle lanes are reserved for cyclists.

  • Do not drive in these lanes unless permitted and only for limited purposes.