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.