Ohio Driver Manual Notes

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)

  • Oversees driver and motor vehicle licensing and registration.
  • Aims to make BMV experiences convenient and efficient.
  • Provides the Ohio Driver Manual as a study guide for those needing an Ohio Driver License.
  • The manual offers guidance on motor vehicle laws but may not cover all applicable laws.
  • The manual explains the general process for obtaining a Driver License and provides a summary of laws and safe driving practices.
  • The manual is not a substitute for the Ohio Revised Code or the Ohio Administrative Code.
  • Information in the manual is subject to change.
  • The Ohio Driver Manual is available on the BMV website in multiple languages and formats.
  • Online services include completing the knowledge test, scheduling a driving test, saving your place in line at a Deputy Registrar License Agency, and renewing or reprinting your Ohio Driver License or ID Card (fees apply).

Section 1: How to Get Your Driver License

  • Includes information on vision screening, knowledge testing, Temporary Instruction Permit Identification Card (TIPIC), driver education requirements (under age 18), and Motorcycle Ohio.
  • Minimum age to complete the vision screening and knowledge test is 15 years and six months.
  • Vision Screening
    • Must meet vision standards before getting a Driver License.
    • Bring glasses or contacts if needed.
    • Driving restrictions may apply based on vision screening results.
  • Knowledge Testing
    • Study the Ohio Driver Manual for the knowledge test.
    • Use the online Sample Knowledge Test to see how the questions are asked.
    • The test is 40 multiple-choice questions (with a 75% passage rate needed).
    • Available in multiple languages.
    • May use your own interpreter for other languages by scheduling an appointment at a Driver Exam Station only.
    • If you pass, go to a Deputy Registrar License Agency to purchase a TIPIC within 60 days.
    • If you fail, you must wait one day before retesting.
    • No limit on how many times you can take the knowledge test, but only once in a day.
    • Knowledge Testing is available online, in-person at a BMV Driver Examination Station, or in-person at select BMV Deputy Registrar License Agencies.
  • Disability Accommodations: Contact your local Driver Exam Station for knowledge test and/or driving test accommodations.

Temporary Instruction Permit Identification Card (TIPIC) – ORC 4507.05

  • After successfully completing vision screening and knowledge test, visit a Deputy Registrar License Agency within 60 days to purchase a TIPIC.
  • If a TIPIC is not purchased within 60 days, you must start over with the vision screening and knowledge test.
  • Applicants must present documents from the Acceptable Documents List to prove identity:
    • Full legal name
    • Date of birth
    • Social Security number (if assigned)
    • Citizenship or legal presence
    • Ohio street address (two documents proving address are needed for a federally-compliant card)
  • If the applicant is under age 18, the applicant’s parent or guardian must be present to co-sign the TIPIC application.
  • If you have an Ohio Identification (ID) card, it will be canceled when the TIPIC is issued. An Ohio resident may hold only one Driver License or ID card at a time.
  • TIPIC Restrictions
    • Under age 16: A parent, guardian, custodian, licensed driving instructor, or a person age 21 or older, who acts in loco parentis, must occupy the front passenger seat beside the permit holder.
    • Age 16 to 17: Driving with any valid licensed driver, age 21 or older, in the front passenger seat is permitted, except from midnight to 6 a.m. when the driver must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or custodian who holds a valid Driver License.
    • Age 18 and over: Practice driving only if accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older.
    • All ages:
      • Drivers must carry the TIPIC at all times when driving.
      • The eligible adult in the front passenger seat shall not be intoxicated.
      • The driver and all passengers must wear safety belts.
      • Use of any mobile electronic device is prohibited while driving.
      • Total number of occupants in the vehicle cannot exceed the total number of safety belts installed in the vehicle.

Driver Education Requirements (Under Age 18)

  • To obtain a Driver License, a driver under age 18 must meet these requirements:
    • Complete a driver education class at a licensed driver training school with 24 hours of classroom or online instruction, and 8 hours of driving time.
    • Complete 50 hours of driving with a parent or guardian, with at least 10 hours of night driving.
    • Hold the TIPIC for at least six months.
  • Find a driving school and additional information at Ohio Driver Training (www.drivertraining.ohio.gov).

Motorcycle Ohio

  • Obtain a motorcycle license or endorsement by completing a motorcycle skills test at a Driver Exam Station or completing the Motorcycle Ohio’s Basic Rider Course.
  • The Motorcycle Operator Manual (MOP 0001) provides further guidance to obtain a motorcycle endorsement.
  • Enroll in a motorcycle training course and find more information at Motorcycle Ohio (www.motorcycle.ohio.gov).

Section 2: Before You Drive

  • Includes information on inspecting your vehicle, driver position: seat & mirror adjustments, and safety restraints.

Inspecting Your Vehicle

  • Ensure your vehicle is safe for you and your passengers before you drive.
  • Vehicle Equipment Regulations – ORC 4513 and OAC 4501:2-1
    • Ohio law states: “No person shall drive or move, or cause or knowingly permit to be driven or moved, on any highway any vehicle or combination of vehicles which is in such unsafe condition as to endanger any person.”
    • No vehicle is to be equipped with or permitted to have protruding objects, broken sharp edges, or vehicle parts that would be dangerous to a person coming in contact with them.
    • Ohio law also defines the equipment required for vehicles and the conditions that equipment must meet.
  • The average motor vehicle should have this equipment:
    • Steering assembly that operates normally, with no excessive play in the steering wheel
    • Tires with a minimum of 1/16-inch tread depth and no major bumps, bulges, or damage
    • At least two seat belts in the front seat
    • Brakes:
      • Service brake that is adequate to slow, stop, and control the vehicle
      • Parking brake that is adequate to hold the vehicle on a grade
    • Lights:
      • Two headlights, one on each side, in working order
      • Two red reflectors on the rear of the vehicle, visible from 300 feet
      • One taillight that emits red light, visible from 500 feet
      • Two red stop lights (brake lights) visible from 500 feet when the brakes are applied
      • White light to illuminate the rear license plate, visible from 50 feet
    • Turn signals in working order, visible from 300 feet:
      • Two at the front of the vehicle
      • Two at the rear of the vehicle
    • Windshield wipers in good working condition, able to clear precipitation from the windshield
    • Rear-view mirror providing an unobstructed view to the rear of the vehicle
    • Horn in good working order, audible from 200 feet, and identifiable as a motor vehicle horn
    • Exhaust system in good working order and constant operation
    • Window light transmission within the acceptable percentages:
      • Windshield: 70% light transmission (standard for most new cars)
      • Side windows of front seat: 50% light transmission, plus or minus 3%
  • Does your vehicle have safety recalls? Search with your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for recalls at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website: http://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Tire Safety
    • Crashes due to tire maintenance are preventable, and simple steps can save lives.
    • Driving on underinflated or overinflated tires or tires with low tread can lead to safety issues on the road.
    • Tire Inflation:
      • Maintain the tires at the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure level. The vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure, measured in PSI, is indicated on the door jamb.
      • Check tire pressure when the tires are the same temperature as the surrounding air.
      • Remove the cap from the valve stem and use a pressure gauge to check the tire pressure.
      • If the number is too low, inflate your tires to the correct level. If the number is too high, release air from the tire valve.
    • Tire Tread Depth
      • A tire in safe condition has a minimum of 1/16-inch tread depth on the road surface and is free of major bumps or bulges, breaks, or tread damage.
      • A common way to check tire tread depth is with a U.S. penny coin. Place the coin with President Abraham Lincoln’s head into the tire’s deepest groove. If you see all of the President’s head, your tires are too worn—don’t drive on them, and make sure to replace them.
    • Studded Tires
      • In Ohio, studded tires are legal from November 1 through April 15.
  • Know When to Use Your Lights
    • Headlights
      • Ohio law requires headlights to be on sunset to sunrise, at any time visibility is poor (rain, snow, fog, etc.), and any time the windshield wipers are in use because of precipitation.
      • High beam headlights can be used at any time headlights are used except when an oncoming vehicle is approaching.
    • Turn Signals
      • Use the turn signals to show intention to turn right or left, to change course of direction, or to change lanes on a multi-lane road. Activate a turn signal at least 100 feet prior to changing direction.
    • Hazard Lights
      • Use hazard lights to increase visibility of a vehicle stopped on or near a roadway.

Driver Position: Seat and Mirror Adjustments

  • Adjusting the Driver’s Seat
    • Practice good driving posture by sitting upright with your back against the seat and feet on the floor. Before driving, adjust the seat to have a clear view through the windshield and full control of the vehicle’s foot pedals and steering wheel, leaving appropriate space for airbag deployment.
    • When your seat is adjusted properly:
      • Your foot pivots smoothly from brake to accelerator while your heel is kept on the floor.
      • The top of the steering wheel is no higher than the top of your shoulders and below chin level.
      • There is at least 10 inches between your chest and the steering wheel to allow appropriate space for airbag deployment.
      • Head restraints are adjusted so the head restraint contacts the back of your head and not below the level of your ears, to avoid whiplash.
  • Adjusting the Mirrors
    • Before driving, adjust the mirrors for the best view towards the vehicle’s sides and rear.
    • Inside rear-view mirror: The rear-view mirror is the primary mirror for the view to the rear. Adjust so that it frames the rear window, and traffic flow to the vehicle’s rear appears in the mirror.
    • Outside mirrors: Properly adjusted outside mirrors reduce blind spots and provide maximum visibility to the side and rear on both sides of the vehicle. Reduce blind spots with these adjustments:
      • Left-side mirror:
        • Rest your head against the closed driver-side window
        • Adjust the mirror until the vehicle’s left-edge is barely visible.
      • Right-side mirror:
        • Lean to the right so your head is directly above the center console.
        • Adjust the mirror on the right side so that the rear edge of the vehicle can barely be seen. You will not see the left and right sides of the vehicle when glancing in the outside mirrors; however, this adjustment adds 12 to 16 degrees of additional viewing area to each side of the vehicle. Additionally, this allows the vehicle from the rear-view to move into the side-view mirror, and then when it leaves the side-view mirror, the vehicle is visible in the peripheral view of the driver.

Safety Restraints

  • Air Bags
    • Air bags are supplemental restraints and are designed to work best in combination with safety belts. In a crash, air bags and safety belts reduce the chance that your head and upper body will strike some part of the vehicle interior. Read your vehicle owner’s manual for specific information about the air bags in your vehicle.
  • Safety Belts
    • Ohio’s mandatory safety belt usage law requires drivers and front-seat occupants of most passenger vehicles to wear safety belts whenever they drive or ride in a motor vehicle on Ohio’s roadways. Safety belts should be worn even if the vehicle is equipped with air bags.
    • Always fasten your safety belt and make sure all passengers are using safety belts or child restraints. Drivers and front seat occupants must wear safety belts. For drivers under age 18, the number of vehicle occupants is limited to the number of safety belts originally installed and all occupants must wear safety belts. It is important to wear the safety belt correctly:
      • The safety belt should be worn across bony areas (shoulders and hips).
      • A shoulder belt is worn across the shoulder and chest with minimal, if any, slack. Do not wear the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back. Wearing the belt the wrong way could cause serious internal injuries in a crash.
      • Adjust the lap belt so that it is snug and lies low across your hips after fastening. Otherwise, in a crash, you could slide out of the belt, resulting in injury or death.

Section 3: Be Alert

  • Driving is one of the riskier tasks that you will do during your lifetime. Your ability to drive safely depends on good health and making correct decisions.
  • Vision
    • Because seeing well is so important to safe driving, have your eyes checked regularly by an eye doctor.
    • If you complete the vision screening with corrective lenses, your Driver License will indicate a vision restriction and you must always wear your corrective lenses when driving.
    • Avoid using dark or tinted corrective lenses at night.
    • For more information about Ohio’s vision standards, refer to Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) Rule 4501:1-1-20. https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/rule-4501:1-1-20
  • Fatigue
    • Fatigue is physical or mental tiredness that can be caused by physical or mental strain, repetitive tasks, illness, medications, or lack of sleep. Fatigue can affect your vision and decrease your reaction time.
  • Aggressive Driving
    • Aggressive driving occurs when an individual intentionally commits an action that endangers other persons or property. Aggressive driving examples are speeding, following too closely, unsafe lane changes, improper signaling, and failing to obey traffic signals and warnings signs.
  • Distracted Driving
    • A distraction is anything that takes attention away from driving, whether it is physically taking your hands from the wheel, eyes away from the road, or mental activities that take your mind away from driving. Distracted driving can result in crashes causing serious harm to you, passengers, pedestrians, or other motorists. Avoid all types of distraction – cell phone conversations, text messaging, arguments or emotional conversations with passengers, or eating while driving. Make sure children and pets are secured properly.
    • In Ohio, it is illegal to drive distracted. This includes using an electronic wireless communication device.
    • Drivers Age 18 Years and Older
      • It is illegal in most cases to use, hold, or physically support a cell phone or electronic wireless communications device while driving on Ohio roads. If an officer sees a violation, they can pull you over.
      • The law allows drivers over 18 years old to make and receive phone calls using “hands-free” technology, and use other device features, as long as they do not hold or support the device or manually enter letters, numbers, or symbols. Drivers may only activate or deactivate their devices with a single touch or swipe.
      • Exceptions Include:
        • Reporting an emergency to law enforcement, a hospital, health care provider, fire department or similar emergency entity.
        • Holding a phone to the ear only during phone conversations, if the call is started or stopped with a single touch or swipe.
        • Holding or using cell phones or other electronic devices while stopped at a traffic light or parked on a road or highway during an emergency or road closure.
        • First responders (law enforcement, fire, EMS) using electronic devices as part of their official duties.
        • Utility workers operating utility vehicles in certain emergency or outage situations.
        • Licensed operators using an amateur radio.
        • Commercial truck drivers using a mobile data terminal.
      • The penalties, under the law, have been enhanced.
        • 1st offense in two years: 2 points assessed to Driver License, up to a $150 fine. Completion of a distracted driving course can help avoid the fine and points.
        • 2nd offense in two years: 3 points assessed to Driver License, up to a $250 fine.
        • 3rd or more in two years: 4 points assessed to Driver License, up to a $500 fine, possible 90-day suspension of Driver License.
      • Fines doubled if the violation occurs in a work zone.
    • Drivers Under Age 18 Years
      • It is illegal to use any electronic device while driving, even hands-free, or while sitting at a traffic light or in a traffic jam.
      • Exceptions allow use for navigation device purposes, or emergency services calls.
      • Violation of this law is a ‘primary’ offense (a main cause for a traffic stop):
        • First violation: 60-days Driver License suspension and a $150 fine.
        • Second violation: 1-year Driver License suspension and a $300 fine.
  • Alcohol, Drugs, and Driving
    • In Ohio, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Even legally prescribed or over-the-counter medication may affect an individual’s driving ability.
    • Effects of Alcohol and Drugs:
      • Vision — May cause blurred vision; reduced ability to focus; and reduced ability to judge distance, speed, and the movement of other vehicles
      • Reaction Time — Slows your ability to process information and respond to the driving task
      • Judgment — Reduces your ability to perceive surroundings and make quick decisions
    • To further understand the serious consequences of impaired driving, see Ohio’s crashes and crash injuries on the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s OVI Dashboard.

Section 4: Rules of the Road

  • Includes information on speed limits, right-of-way, traffic signals, traffic signs, lane pavement markings, two-way left turn only lane, and crosswalks.

Speed Limits - ORC 4511.21

  • Speed limits are considered reasonable speeds based on the road’s design, the expected traffic volume, and dry weather without fog or other issues further affecting visibility.
  • In less-than-ideal conditions (e.g., inclement weather, bad road conditions, or high traffic volumes), a reasonable speed may be slower than the posted speed limit. A reasonable speed is necessary for a driver to maintain control of the vehicle and to bring it to a stop within an assured clear distance ahead.
  • Regardless of the posted speed limit, Ohio law prohibits a person from driving at a speed greater than what allows the driver to stop in the distance available.
  • Generally, speed limits are based on the type of road (two-lane, divided highways, etc.), and the road’s location as described in the examples below.

Right-of-Way

  • Right-of-way describes the priority of traffic flow, meaning a pedestrian or vehicle, has the right to proceed with precedence over others in a particular situation or place. For the safety of all, yield the right-of-way to:
    • The driver who is at or arrives before you at an intersection.
    • Drivers in the opposing traffic lane when you are making a left turn.
    • The driver on your right at a four-way intersection if both of you arrive at the intersection at the same time.
    • Drivers on a public highway if you are entering the highway from a driveway or a private road.
    • Drivers already on a limited access or interstate highway if you are on the entrance or acceleration ramp.
    • Pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who are still in the intersection (See Section 9 Sharing the Road).
    • Public safety vehicles (emergency, police, fire).

Traffic Signals – ORC 4511.13

  • Traffic signals are lights that tell you when to stop and go. Traffic lights are usually at intersections and are red, yellow, and green from top to bottom. Some locations may have single green, yellow, or red lights; or the traffic lights may be horizontal instead of vertical.

Traffic Signs

  • Traffic signs indicate traffic rules, hazards, roadway location, roadway directions, and the location of roadway services. The shape, color, symbols, and instruction of these signs give clues to the type of information they provide.
  • Warning Signs tell a driver of possible danger that might be ahead. The signs are usually yellow with black lettering or symbols and are diamond shaped.
  • Guide Signs’ shapes may be square or rectangular, and colors may be green, brown, or blue. These signs provide points of interest and services along the highway, information on intersecting roads, and help direct drivers to cities and towns. Guide signs can help you find hospitals, gas stations or service stations, restaurants, and hotels.
  • Route Number Signs: The shape and color of these signs indicate the type of roadway — interstate, U.S., state, city, county, or local road. Corresponding signs, distances, etc., in maps and GPS applications assist travelers in way-finding.
  • In Work Zones, traffic may be controlled by a person with a sign or flag directing traffic. You must follow their instructions. Barriers, such as drums and cones, keep traffic from entering closed roads or other areas where it is dangerous to drive. Give construction workers a “brake.” Be alert, reduce your speed, and be prepared to stop suddenly while approaching or traveling through Work Zones. Consequences for traveling faster than the posted speed limit (“speeding”) in a Work Zone can include doubled fines and jail time.
  • Work Zone Signs: These signs generally have a distinctive orange background. Nearing a construction zone, be alert, reduce speed, follow the directions of the signs, and watch for workers and equipment on the roadway/highway.

Lane Pavement Markings

  • Pavement markings are lines, arrows, words, or symbols painted on the roadway. They divide lanes, tell you when you may pass other vehicles, tell you which lanes to use for turns, define pedestrian walkways, and show you where you must stop for signs or traffic signals.

Two-Way Left Turn Only Lane

  • A two-way left turn lane is marked with a broken yellow line and a solid yellow line on each side of the lane. It is also marked with white two-way left-turn lane arrows. The marked center lane is for left turns only. Vehicles from either direction may use the center lane immediately prior to making a left turn. This is not a lane used for traveling or passing.

Crosswalks

  • Crosswalks define the area where pedestrians may cross the roadway. You must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians entering or in a crosswalk. If there is a stop line before the crosswalk, the stop line must be obeyed. Not all crosswalks are marked in the same way.

Section 5: Learning to Drive

  • Includes information on starting the engine, moving & stopping the vehicle, steering & backing up, intersections & turning, roundabouts or traffic circles, lane travel & changing lanes, entering & exiting a roadway, passing, railroad crossings, stopping for school buses, and parking

Starting the Engine

  • Check the vehicle owner’s manual for instructions to start the vehicle. To start the engine, place your right foot on the brake pedal and check the gear selector for park. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it, or push the Start button.

Moving the Vehicle

  • Move the gear selector to “D” (drive). Check forward for a safe path and check for traffic to the sides and behind. Signal and if safe, move your foot off the brake and to the accelerator and press gently. Accelerate gradually and smoothly with the ball of your foot on the pedal and the heel of your foot on the floor.

Stopping the Vehicle

  • Check your mirrors for traffic to the rear of your vehicle. Move your foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal. Press with steady pressure until your vehicle comes to a stop.
    • The distance it takes to bring a vehicle to a complete stop depends on several factors:
      • Driver’s reaction time
      • Speed at which the vehicle is traveling
      • The condition of the vehicle’s brakes
      • The condition of the pavement (wet, dry, icy, salted, gravel, etc.)
    • Allow 3-4 second following distance of the vehicle ahead of you.
  • A driver must stop:
    • Behind the stop line or crosswalk at any stop sign or red traffic signal before entering an intersection.
    • Behind the stop line or crosswalk at any red traffic signal where right or left turns on red are permitted. The driver may only proceed with a legal turn on red after coming to a full stop and yielding the right-of-way to all crossing traffic and to all pedestrians crossing the intersection.
    • At a flashing red traffic signal, yielding to all traffic that does not have to stop.
    • At a sidewalk, or if there is no sidewalk, at a point prior to entering the roadway, when emerging from an alley, driveway, or private road in a business or residential district. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian on the sidewalk.
    • Before entering an intersection if there is not sufficient space on the other side to accommodate the vehicle. The law applies whether or not a traffic signal gives a driver the right to proceed.
    • At the approach of a public safety vehicle (such as a police car, fire engine, or ambulance) displaying flashing lights and sounding a warning signal, unless the vehicle is traveling in the opposite direction on a divided highway. Move as far as possible to the right of the road and remain there until the emergency vehicle has passed.

Steering

  • Turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the vehicle to move, whether moving forward or in reverse. Place both hands on the outside of the steering wheel on opposite sides, at the 4 and 8 o’clock positions, to maintain control of the vehicle and to avoid air bags if they should deploy. Your grip on the steering wheel should be firm but gentle.

Backing Up

  • To back up your vehicle safely:
    • Check behind your vehicle before you get in. Children and small objects cannot be seen from the driver’s seat.
    • Place your foot on the brake and shift to reverse.
    • Grasp the steering wheel at the 12 o’clock position with your left hand. Place your right arm on the back of the passenger seat and look directly through the rear window. Use your mirrors for backing up but keep in mind that these mirrors do not show the area immediately behind your vehicle.
    • Utilize backup/rear-view cameras, if applicable, but don’t rely solely on the backup/rear-view camera, as it may not show the whole area.
    • Accelerate gently and smoothly, keeping your speed slow. Your vehicle is much harder to steer while you are backing up. Steer slightly in the direction the rear of the vehicle should move. If backing up while turning, make quick checks to the front and sides. Continue looking to the rear until coming to a complete stop.

Intersections and Turning

  • At all intersections, reduce your speed and search for:
    • Traffic control devices;
    • Oncoming and cross traffic, including motorcycles and bicycles - look left, right, then left again;
    • Pedestrians;
    • Roadway conditions; and
    • Areas of limited visibility.
  • Turns When turning:
    • Signal your intentions.
    • Search all corners for traffic controls, pedestrians, other vehicles and so on.
    • Enter and maintain proper position in the lane that is closest to the direction you want to go.
    • Look through the turn to the farthest point possible along the intended path.
    • Accelerate smoothly to appropriate speed, make sure your turn signal is canceled, and check traffic to the rear.
  • Turn Signal A turn signal must be given at least 100 feet before the intended turn. This may be accomplished by using either a mechanical signal or the appropriate hand/arm signal.
  • Right Turns
    • Avoid swinging wide to the left before making the turn.
    • Always turn right from the right-most portion of your lane into the right-most portion of the street you’re turning onto.
  • Left Turns
    • When making a left turn, yield to oncoming traffic.
    • Always turn left from the left-most portion of your lane into the lane furthest left, just to the right of the center dividing line of the street you’re turning onto. This pertains to four-lane highways as well.
  • Multiple Lane Turning
    • Identify and enter the lane from which you will turn.
    • Stay in that lane until the turn is completed.
  • Turning on a Red Traffic Signal
    • Right Turn on Red — You may turn right at a red traffic signal, unless a sign specifically prohibits it. When making a right turn on red, you must come to a complete stop and allow all crossing traffic and all pedestrians to clear the intersection before you proceed.
    • Left Turn on Red — You may turn left at a red traffic signal, only from the extreme left lane of a one-way street onto another one-way street, unless the intersection has a sign posted forbidding a left turn on red.

Roundabouts or Traffic Circles

  • A roundabout or traffic circle is a circular intersection with design features that promote safe and efficient traffic flow. Vehicles travel counterclockwise around a raised center island, with entering traffic yielding the right-of-way to circulating traffic.
    • When using roundabouts or traffic circles:
      • Upon approaching a roundabout, check for signs regarding your travel direction. You cannot change lanes once you are in the roundabout.
      • Slow down to enter the roundabout or traffic circle.
      • Enter a roundabout or traffic circle in a counterclockwise direction.
      • Yield to the traffic already in the roundabout or traffic circle.
      • Look to the left for traffic and enter when the lane is clear.
      • Once you have entered the roundabout, keep moving. Do not stop or change lanes.
      • Proceed to the appropriate exit, turn on signal, and exit.
        • Use the 1st exit to turn right.
        • Use the 2nd exit to go straight.
        • Use the 3rd exit to turn left.
        • Use the 4th exit to make a U-turn.

Lane Travel

  • Drive on the right half of the roadway except when:
    • Overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
    • Driving on a road divided into three or more marked lanes.
    • Driving on a road designed and posted for one-way traffic.
    • Otherwise directed by a police officer or traffic control device.
    • An obstruction makes it necessary for you to drive left-of-center. Yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic.
  • When driving on a road with four or more lanes, drive in the right lane. Use the lane just right of center to pass and make left turns.

Changing Lanes

  • When changing lanes, first ensure the change can be made safely as described below:
    • Check your mirrors and “blind spots” or areas around your vehicle that cannot be seen while using the rear-view or side-view mirrors, by turning your head and looking over your shoulder in the direction you plan to move.
    • Identify a gap in traffic, signal, and look again in the direction of the lane change.
    • Adjust your speed and steering into the lane.
    • Cancel your turn signal.

Entering a Multi-Lane Highway

  • Upon entering a freeway, be aware of the vehicle ahead, look over your shoulder in the direction you are merging and use your outside mirrors to identify a gap in traffic. Signal and use the acceleration lane to reach the speed of other vehicles to merge with the traffic flow. Make sure to cancel your turn signal.

Exiting a Roadway

  • It is important to know where you are exiting the roadway. Plan to move to the lane closest to your exiting point early enough to avoid a quick lane change. Maintain your vehicle speed as long as you are on the main roadway. Signal your intention, move to the deceleration lane and slow your exiting speed.
  • Check the posted speed for the deceleration lane. If you miss your exit, take the next one. Do not use the opening through the median, which is for use only by emergency and public safety vehicles.

Passing

  • How to pass:
    • Check for oncoming traffic.
    • Check your mirrors and over your shoulder for following or passing vehicles.
    • Signal your intentions when it is safe to pass.
    • Steer smoothly into the passing lane.
    • Maintain or adjust speed as necessary.
    • Continue to pass until both headlights of the passed vehicle are visible in the rear-view mirror.
    • Signal your intention to return to the lane.
    • Steer smoothly into the lane, maintaining or adjusting speed as appropriate.
  • When being passed:
    • Stay in your lane.
    • Maintain a constant speed to allow the driver to pass you.
  • Do not attempt to pass when:
    • An oncoming vehicle is approaching.
    • Your view is blocked by a curve or a hill.
    • At intersections.
    • Before a highway-railroad crossing or bridge.

Railroad Crossings

  • A round, yellow warning sign with an “X” symbol and “RR” letters, or a white, X-shaped (crossbuck) sign with the text “Railroad Crossing” indicates a highway-railroad grade crossing. Some crossings are marked with train-activating flashing red lights, with or without a gate. These signs caution you to slow down and be prepared to stop upon seeing or hearing a train. Stop no closer than 15 feet from the crossing when a train is approaching. Wait until the train has passed and any warning signals have stopped before crossing the tracks.
  • When the crossing is marked with only pavement markings or crossbuck signs, slow down and be prepared to stop if you see or hear a train approaching. Do not stop on the tracks and do not attempt to cross the tracks when a train is approaching. If the crossing is marked with a stop sign, all vehicles must stop before proceeding. Operators of motor vehicles carrying passengers for hire, school buses, or vehicles carrying explosives or flammable liquids, are required to stop at railroad crossings. The drivers listen through an open door or window, look in both directions for an approaching train, and for signals indicating the approach of a train, and then proceed with care.

Stopping for a