California Driver's Handbook Study Notes

Administrative Information and Digital DMV Services

  • State Officials:

    • Gavin Newsom, Governor of the State of California.
    • Toks Omishakin, Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency.
    • Steve Gordon, Director of the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

  • Copyright and Licensing:

    • Copyright © 2025 Department of Motor Vehicles.
    • Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC 4.0).
    • Material may be copied, distributed, and adapted for non-commercial educational purposes with proper attribution.
    • Commercial use is strictly prohibited without prior written permission.
    • Standard Attribution Format: "California Driver’s Handbook, California Department of Motor Vehicles, licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0."

  • Legal Disclaimer & Contact:

    • The handbook summarizes laws and regulations in the California Vehicle Code (available at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov). DMV, law enforcement, and courts follow the full, exact language of the Vehicle Code.
    • Feedback and suggestions can be submitted at dmv.ca.gov/customerservice.
    • Social Media handle: @CA_DMV using #CADMV.

  • Online Services & Accessibility:

    • Main DMV website: dmv.ca.gov.
    • Handbook is available online in 99 languages.
    • Driver's license and ID renewal applications are available online in 1010 languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Tagalog, Thai, Vietnamese, Hindi, and Khmer.
    • Paperless notices for driver's licenses, ID cards, or vehicle registrations can be requested at dmv.ca.gov/paperless.

  • DMV Kiosks:

    • Located at grocery stores and DMV offices (dmv.ca.gov/kiosks).
    • Available transactions: vehicle registration renewal, replacement registration cards or stickers, submitting proof of insurance, filing for planned nonoperation (PNO) status, and obtaining driver or vehicle records.

Section 1: The California Driver's License

  • General Purpose:

    • A California driver's license authorizes driving on public roads.
    • Applicants must pass both a knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel drive test based on the handbook content.
    • Drivers must hold the correct class of license for the vehicle type being operated.

  • License Classes:

    • Noncommercial Class C: Required for standard passenger vehicles (details at dmv.ca.gov/dl).
    • Commercial Class A, Class B, Class C, and Motorcycle licenses: Required for commercial transport, large vehicles, or motorcycles.
    • REAL ID information is available at dmv.ca.gov/realid.

Section 2: Getting a Driver's License

  • Instruction Permit Requirements:

    • Applicants who do not hold a driver's license from California or another state must first obtain an instruction permit before taking the behind-the-wheel drive test (dmv.ca.gov/instructionpermit).
    • Teen driving resources, including application steps, the Parent Teen Driving Contract, and the Driving Performance Evaluation (DPE) Score Sheet, are found at dmv.ca.gov/teendriver.

  • Minor's Provisional License Restrictions:

    • Drivers under 1818\,years old hold a provisional driver's license.
    • Curfew: Cannot drive between 11 p.m.11\text{ p.m.} and 5 a.m.5\text{ a.m.} during the first 12 months12\text{ months} of licensure.
    • Passengers: Cannot drive with passengers under 2020\,years old during the first 12 months12\text{ months}, unless accompanied by a parent/guardian or a California-licensed driver who is at least 2525\,years old.
    • Commercial/Employment: Cannot drive for pay or operate vehicles requiring a commercial Class A, B, or C license.

  • Exceptions to Minor's Restrictions (Must carry a signed note for each respective situation):

    • Medical Need: Signed note from a physician detailing the specific medical condition and expected recovery date.
    • School/School Activity: Signed note from the school principal, dean, or designee.
    • Employment Need: Signed note from the employer confirming employment.
    • Immediate Family Need: Signed note from a parent or legal guardian stating the specific reason, the family member being driven, and the date when the need will end.

  • License Cancellation:

    • A parent or legal guardian can cancel a teen's driver's license at any time by completing the Request for Cancellation or Surrender of a Driver License or ID Card form.

Section 3: An Introduction to Driving

  • Health and Driving Capabilities:

    • Vision: Drivers must notice hazards in varying light conditions, judge distances accurately, adjust to traffic speed, and read road signs.
    • Hearing: It is illegal to wear a headset or earplugs in both ears simultaneously while driving.
    • Medical Reporting: Physicians are legally required to report patients who are at least 1414\,years old to the DMV for medical conditions that cause a lapse of consciousness or otherwise impair safe driving.

  • Signaling, Horns, and Headlights:

    • Hand-and-Arm Signals (used when turn lights fail or bright sunlight obscures lights):
    • Left Turn: Arm extended straight out horizontally.
    • Right Turn: Arm bent upward at a 90∘90^{\circ} angle.
    • Slow or Stop: Arm bent downward at a 90∘90^{\circ} angle.
    • Bicyclists may signal a turn by holding their arm straight out pointing in the direction of the turn.
    • Required Signaling Distances:
    • Signal at least 100 feet100\text{ feet} before making a turn.
    • Signal before every lane change.
    • Signal at least 5 seconds5\text{ seconds} before changing lanes on a freeway.
    • Signal before pulling next to or away from a curb.
    • Signal even when no other vehicles are visible.
    • Signal when almost through an intersection if planning to turn shortly after crossing it.
    • Always turn off the signal once the maneuver is complete.
    • Using the Horn:
    • Use to avoid collisions.
    • Use to alert oncoming traffic on narrow mountain roads where visibility ahead is less than 200 feet200\text{ feet}.
    • Using Headlights:
    • High-Beam Dimming: Dim high beams to low beams within 500 feet500\text{ feet} of an oncoming vehicle or within 300 feet300\text{ feet} of a vehicle being followed.
    • It is illegal to drive using only parking lights.
    • Headlights must be turned on:
      • When visibility is limited and objects cannot be seen from 1,000 feet1,000\text{ feet} away.
      • Beginning 30 minutes30\text{ minutes} after sunset.
      • Continuing until 30 minutes30\text{ minutes} before sunrise.
      • In adverse weather: Low-beam headlights must be activated whenever windshield wipers are required due to fog, rain, or snow.
      • When conditions such as clouds, dust, smoke, or fog prevent seeing other vehicles.
      • On mountain roads and in tunnels, even on sunny days.
      • When a road sign indicates headlights must be turned on.
      • When the sun is low on the horizon to help other drivers see the vehicle.

  • Emergency Flashers and Vehicle Breakdowns:

    • Hazard Warning: If a collision or hazard is ahead, use emergency flashers or hand signals when slowing/stopping.
    • Stopping Due to Vehicle Trouble:
    • Turn on emergency flashers (or turn signals if flashers are unavailable).
    • Pull off the road completely away from all traffic if possible.
    • If unable to exit completely, stop where the vehicle is clearly visible from behind. Never stop just over a hill or around a curve.
    • Call for emergency roadside assistance and remain inside the vehicle with the seat belt fastened until help arrives.

Section 4: Navigating the Roads

  • Lane Markings and Rules:

    • Single Solid Yellow Line: Marks the center of a two-way traffic road. Do not pass over a single solid yellow line when there is only one lane in your direction.
    • Double Solid Yellow Lines: Do not pass over double solid yellow lines. Stay to the right, except when:
    • Driving in an HOV carpool lane with a designated entrance on the left.
    • Directed by signs/construction to drive on the other side due to road closure.
    • Turning left across a single set of double yellow lines to enter/exit a driveway or private road, or to make a U-turn.
    • Two Sets of Solid Double Yellow Lines Spaced 2 feet2\text{ feet} or More Apart:
    • Defined as a physical barrier. Do not drive on or over this barrier, and do not make a left turn or U-turn across it, except at designated openings.
    • Broken Yellow Line: Indicates passing is permitted if the broken line is adjacent to your driving lane and conditions are safe.
    • Single Solid White Line: Marks traffic lanes moving in the same direction, including one-way streets.
    • Double Solid White Lines: Indicates a lane barrier between a regular-use lane and a preferential-use lane (such as an HOV lane) or near freeway ramps. Never change lanes over double solid white lines; wait for a single broken white line.
    • Broken White Lines: Separate lanes of traffic on roads with two or more lanes in the same direction.
    • End of Lane Markings: Marked by large broken lines on ending freeway or street lanes. Drivers must prepare to exit or merge.
    • Yield Line: A line of solid white triangles pointing toward approaching vehicles, indicating where to yield or stop.

  • Choosing and Changing Lanes:

    • Lane Numbering: The far-left (fast) lane is the Number 1 Lane. The lane to its right is the Number 2 Lane, continuing sequentially to the right.
    • Lane Selection: Use the left lane to pass or turn left. Use the right lane to enter/exit traffic or pull away from a curb/shoulder.
    • Lane Changing Procedure: Signal, check mirrors, check surrounding traffic, look over shoulder to check blind spots for vehicles/motorcycles/bicycles, ensure adequate space, maintain speed (slowing down is not necessary before changing lanes), and move smoothly without weaving.
    • Intersection Rules: Once entering or moving through an intersection, continue forward. Complete any turn that has been started. If a turn is missed, continue driving until a safe, legal turn-around is possible.

  • Types of Lanes:

    • Passing Lane: The far-left lane on a multilane road closest to the center divider.
    • Carpool / High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes:
    • Reserved for carpools (minimum passenger count posted on signs), buses, and motorcycles (unless posted otherwise).
    • Marked on the road surface with a diamond symbol and the words Carpool Lane.
    • Crossing double solid lines to enter or exit is illegal; use designated openings.
    • Center Left Turn Lanes:
    • Located in the middle of a two-way street, marked by two painted lines (inner line broken, outer line solid).
    • Used exclusively to prepare for and execute left turns or U-turns.
    • Maximum legal driving distance in a center left turn lane is 200 feet200\text{ feet}.
    • Procedure: Look for oncoming vehicles in the lane, signal, check blind spots, merge completely into the lane, and turn when safe.
    • Turnout Areas or Lanes:
    • Special lanes on two-lane roads used to let following cars pass.
    • Mandatory Use Rule: A driver must pull into a turnout area on a two-lane road when driving slowly, where passing is unsafe, and 55\,or more vehicles are tailgating behind.
    • Bicycle Lanes:
    • Designated exclusively for bicyclists alongside vehicle traffic, marked by a solid white line (which turns dashed near intersections) and sometimes painted bright green.
    • Driving in a bike lane is illegal except when:
      • Parking (where permitted).
      • Entering or leaving the road.
      • Turning within 200 feet200\text{ feet} of an intersection.
    • Types of Bike Facilities:
      • Bike Lane: Adjacent to traffic, single solid white line turning dashed near intersections.
      • Buffered Bike Lane: Uses chevrons or diagonal markings for extra separation from traffic and parking.
      • Bike Route: Uses signs and shared markings on streets shared with traffic.
      • Bicycle Boulevard: Prioritizes bicycle traffic on shared streets.
      • Separated Bikeway (Cycle Track/Protected Bike Lane): Physically separated by flexible posts, grade separation, or barriers.
      • Shared Roadway Bicycle Markings (Sharrows): Alert drivers that cyclists may occupy the full lane.
    • Passing Clearance: Drivers must maintain a minimum of 3 feet3\text{ feet} of lateral distance when passing a bicyclist.

  • Turn Procedures:

    • Right Turns:
    • Drive close to the right edge. Enter an available bike lane within 200 feet200\text{ feet} of the turn after checking blind spots.
    • Signal 100 feet100\text{ feet} before turning. Look over the right shoulder and reduce speed.
    • Stop behind the limit line (a wide white line showing where to stop). If no limit line exists, stop before the crosswalk; if no crosswalk, stop before the intersection.
    • Look left-right-left and complete the turn in the right lane without swinging wide.
    • Right Turn Against Red Light: Permitted after making a complete stop, unless a NO TURN ON RED sign is posted.
    • Right Turn Against Red Arrow: Prohibited. Drivers must wait for a green signal.
    • Public Transit Bus Lanes: Drivers may cross a bus lane to make a right turn, but cannot drive, stop, or park in it.
    • Dedicated Right Turn Lane: Allows turns without stopping unless controlled by a specific traffic light/sign on the curb.
    • Left Turns:
    • Drive close to the center divider or enter a left turn lane / center left turn lane (within 200 feet200\text{ feet}).
    • Signal 100 feet100\text{ feet} before the turn. Check left shoulder, reduce speed, and stop behind the limit line.
    • Keep front wheels pointed straight ahead until starting the turn (prevents being pushed into oncoming traffic if rear-ended).
    • Look left-right-left and proceed into the intersection to complete the turn in the left lane.
    • Left Turn Against Red Light: Permitted only when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street, provided no sign prohibits it.
    • U-Turns:
    • Executed by signaling and using the left turn lane or far-left lane.
    • Permitted Locations:
      • Across a double yellow line.
      • In a residential district if no approaching vehicles are within 200 feet200\text{ feet}.
      • At an intersection on a green traffic light or green arrow (unless prohibited).
      • On a divided highway where a center divider opening is provided.
    • Prohibited Locations:
      • Where a NO U-TURN sign is posted.
      • At or on a railroad crossing.
      • On a divided highway by crossing a dividing section, curb, strip of land, or two sets of double yellow lines.
      • Where visibility is restricted to less than 200 feet200\text{ feet} in either direction.
      • On a one-way street.
      • In front of a fire station (never use a fire station driveway to turn around).
      • In business districts (except at intersections or designated openings on divided highways).
    • Specific Turn Scenarios (Numbered 1–7):
    1. Left turn from a two-way street: Begin in the left lane closest to the middle; end in the left lane closest to the middle in the direction of travel.
    2. Right turn: Begin and end in the lane closest to the right edge.
    3. Left turn from a two-way street onto a one-way street: Begin in the far-left lane. If 33\,or more lanes exist, may end in any open lane.
    4. Left turn from a one-way street onto a two-way street: Begin in the far-left lane; end in the left lane closest to the middle.
    5. Left turn from a one-way street onto a one-way street: Begin in the far-left lane (cyclists may legally use this lane). If 33\,or more lanes exist, may end in any open lane.
    6. Right turn from a one-way street onto a one-way street: Begin in the far-right lane; end in any open lane if safe.
    7. Turn at a T-intersection from a one-way street onto a two-way street: Traffic going straight has the right-of-way. Turns can be made right or left from the center lane.

  • Braking and Stopping:

    • Remove foot from accelerator, gently press brake pedal, and leave space to see the rear tires of the vehicle ahead touching the pavement.

  • Merging, Exiting, and Spacing:

    • Merging onto Highway: Highway traffic has the right-of-way. Enter at or near traffic speed without stopping unnecessarily. Leave 3 seconds3\text{ seconds} of space between vehicles. Do not cross solid lines. Cross multiple lanes one at a time.
    • Exiting Highway: Signal 5 seconds5\text{ seconds} (approx. 400 feet400\text{ feet}) before reaching the exit. Maintain safe exit speed. Do not cross solid lines.
    • Space Gaps Needed for Crossing/Entering Traffic:
    • City streets: Half a block (approx. 150 feet150\text{ feet}).
    • Highways: A full block (approx. 300 feet300\text{ feet}).

  • Passing Rules:

    • Passing requires a clear view of at least 1/3 mile1/3\text{ mile} on hills or curves.
    • Do Not Pass:
    • Approaching a hill or curve where visibility is obstructed.
    • Within 100 feet100\text{ feet} of an intersection, bridge, tunnel, railroad crossing, or hazardous area.
    • At crossroads or driveways.
    • Passing on the Right is Permitted Only When:
    • An open highway has 22\,or more lanes in your direction.
    • The driver ahead is turning left and space permits passing on the right (never pass on the left of a left-turning vehicle).
    • Driving on a one-way street.
    • Never drive off the paved road or main-traveled surface to pass.
    • Being Passed: Maintain lane position and speed.

  • Parking Procedures and Rules:

    • Parallel Parking:
    1. Find a space at least 3 feet3\text{ feet} longer than your vehicle. Signal.
    2. Pull alongside the car in front, leaving 2 feet2\text{ feet} between vehicles, with rear bumpers aligned.
    3. Check blind spots and back into the space at a 45∘45^{\circ} angle.
    4. Turn the steering wheel away from the curb when the rear wheel is within 18 inches18\text{ inches} of the curb.
    5. Final position must be parallel and within 18 inches18\text{ inches} of the curb. Set parking brake.
    • Straight Line Backing:
    • Signal, check blind spots, and back in a straight line for 3 vehicle lengths3\text{ vehicle lengths} while staying within 3 feet3\text{ feet} of the curb.
    • Parking on Hills:
    • Downhill (with curb): Turn front wheels toward the curb (to the right).
    • Uphill (with curb): Turn front wheels away from the curb (to the left) and let the vehicle roll back a few inches so the tire touches the curb.
    • No Curb (uphill or downhill): Turn wheels to the right (toward the shoulder) so the vehicle rolls away from the center of the road.
    • Colored Curb Rules:
    • White: Stop only to pick up or drop off passengers.
    • Green: Park for a limited time (posted on signs or painted on curb).
    • Yellow: Load/unload passengers and freight for no longer than posted limits. Noncommercial drivers must stay with the vehicle.
    • Red: No stopping, standing, or parking (buses may stop in designated red bus zones).
    • Blue: Parking reserved for disabled persons with a placard or special license plate.
    • Illegal Parking Locations:
    • Where NO PARKING signs are posted, or on crosswalks, sidewalks, or driveways.
    • Within 3 feet3\text{ feet} of a sidewalk ramp for disabled persons, or in the crosshatched diagonal lines next to a disabled space.
    • In spaces reserved for zero-emission vehicle parking/fueling (unless driving a zero-emission vehicle).
    • In tunnels or on bridges (unless permitted by signs).
    • Within 15 feet15\text{ feet} of a fire hydrant or fire station driveway.
    • Within 20 feet20\text{ feet} of an unmarked/marked crosswalk, or within 15 feet15\text{ feet} of a crosswalk with a curb extension.
    • Between a safety zone and the curb, or double parked.
    • On the wrong side of the street, or on a freeway shoulder (vehicles stopped on a freeway for over 4 hours4\text{ hours} may be impounded).

  • Law Enforcement Stops and Driver Rights:

    • Stop Procedure: Acknowledge officer with right turn signal, pull completely onto the right shoulder (even from HOV lanes), stop in a well-lit area, turn off radio, remain inside, roll down window, and place hands in clear view.
    • Officer Requirements: Officers must state the reason for a stop before questioning related to a criminal investigation or traffic violation (except when withholding the reason is necessary to protect life/property from imminent threat). The reason must be documented on the citation or law enforcement report.
    • Legal Rights During a Stop:
    • Drivers have the right to refuse consent to search requests (though officers may have legal authority to search under specific circumstances without consent). Do not physically resist an unauthorized search.
    • Driver must produce driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Failure allows a limited search for documents.
    • Passengers may decline identification requests, but must comply if legally required, and must obey orders to exit or remain inside the vehicle.
    • Only federal law enforcement officers can ask about immigration status; California law prohibits state and local officers from asking.
    • First Amendment protects the right to record law enforcement interactions in public spaces provided it does not interfere with officer duties. Officers cannot confiscate, delete, or destroy recording devices.
    • Drivers may decline to unlock cell phones or provide passwords (unless on parole or under specific legal conditions).
    • Complaints against officers can be filed with the employing agency (post.ca.gov/le-agencies). Physical resistance is prohibited.

Section 5: Laws and Rules of the Road

  • Traffic Control Signals:

    • Solid Red: STOP. Right turn allowed after full stop unless NO TURN ON RED sign is posted.
    • Red Arrow: STOP. No turns permitted on a red arrow.
    • Flashing Red: STOP. Acts like a STOP sign; proceed when safe.
    • Solid Yellow: CAUTION. Light is changing to red. Stop if safe to do so; otherwise proceed cautiously.
    • Yellow Arrow: Protected turning period is ending.
    • Flashing Yellow: PROCEED WITH CAUTION. Slow down; no stop required.
    • Flashing Yellow Arrow: Unprotected left turn permitted; yield to oncoming traffic.
    • Solid Green: GO. Yield to vehicles/pedestrians in the intersection. Do not enter if gridlock will occur.
    • Green Arrow: GO. Protected turn; oncoming traffic is stopped.
    • Traffic Signals Outage: Treat as an all-way STOP sign controlled intersection.

  • Pedestrian Signals and Signs:

    • WALK / Walking Person: Permitted to cross.
    • DON'T WALK / Raised Hand / Flashing: Do not start crossing. Numbers indicate remaining seconds to cross. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
    • Diagonal Crossing: Crisscross crosswalks allowing diagonal crossing when signal permits.
    • Audible Signals: Beeps, chirps, or verbal messages assist visually impaired pedestrians.

  • Sign Shapes and Colors:

    • STOP Sign: 8-sided red sign. Full stop behind limit line or before crosswalk/intersection.
    • YIELD Sign: Red and white triangle. Slow down and stop if necessary.
    • Regulatory Signs: Red and white (e.g., DO NOT ENTER, WRONG WAY). Red circle with a red diagonal line means prohibited action. If driving at night, road reflectors shining red indicate going the wrong way.
    • Railroad Crossing: Yellow and black circular sign or X-shaped sign (Crossbuck). Blue and white emergency sign displays emergency contact and location numbers.
    • School Zone: 5-sided sign.
    • Warning Signs: Yellow diamond-shaped signs. Includes: Slippery When Wet, Merging Traffic, Divided Highway, Two Way Traffic, Lane Ends, End Divided Highway, Traffic Signal Ahead, Pedestrian Crossing, Added Lane, Crossroad, Stop Ahead, Yield Ahead, Directional Arrow, Curve, T Intersection, Winding Road.
    • Details on sign charts are available at dot.ca.gov/programs/safety-programs/sign-charts.

  • Right-of-Way Rules:

    • First Arrival: The vehicle arriving first at an intersection has the right-of-way.
    • Same-Time Arrival: Yield to the vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian on your right.
    • Four-Way Stops: Stop first, then apply same-time arrival rules.
    • T-Intersections: Vehicles on the through road have the right-of-way over vehicles turning from the terminating road.
    • Left Turns: Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
    • Roundabouts: Travel in a counterclockwise direction. Slow down and yield to all traffic inside. Select entry lane based on destination:
    • Right turn: Enter right lane, exit right lane.
    • Straight: Enter either lane, exit in same lane.
    • Left turn: Enter left lane, travel around to exit.
    • Blind Pedestrians: Pedestrians carrying white canes or using guide dogs have the right-of-way at all times.
    • Mountain Roads: When two vehicles meet on a steep narrow road with no passing room, the vehicle facing uphill has the right-of-way. The vehicle facing downhill must back up until the uphill vehicle can pass.

  • Sharing the Road with Specific Vehicles:

    • Large Trucks / Commercial Vehicles:
    • Blind Spots (No Zone): Large areas behind, beside, and in front where cars disappear. If you cannot see the truck's side mirrors, the driver cannot see you.
    • Braking Distance: A passenger car traveling at 55 mph55\text{ mph} stops within 300 feet300\text{ feet}. A commercial truck at 55 mph55\text{ mph} takes up to 400 feet400\text{ feet} to stop.
    • Turning: Large trucks swing wide to turn; do not pass on the inside during a turn.
    • Lane Restrictions: On divided highways with 44\,or more lanes in one direction, trucks must drive in the two rightmost lanes.
    • Buses, Streetcars, and Trolleys:
    • Safety Zones: Spaces set aside for pedestrians marked by raised buttons or dotted white lines. Never drive through a safety zone.
    • Passing Speed: Pass stopped buses/streetcars at a safety zone at no more than 10 mph10\text{ mph}.
    • Do not pass light rail vehicles on the left unless on a one-way street, tracks are too close to the right, or directed by an officer.
    • Motorcycles:
    • Allow a 3-second3\text{-second} following distance. Give motorcycles full lane width. Lane splitting is legal in California.
    • Emergency Vehicles:
    • Yield right-of-way to emergency vehicles using sirens and red lights by pulling to the right edge and stopping.
    • It is illegal to follow within 300 feet300\text{ feet} of any emergency vehicle with active sirens or lights.
    • Unlawful to drive to the scene of a fire, collision, or disaster.
    • Slow-Moving Vehicles:
    • Vehicles traveling 25 mph25\text{ mph} or less must display an orange and red triangle emblem on the rear.
    • Bicycles:
    • Must maintain at least 3 feet3\text{ feet} of clearance when passing a bicyclist. If 3 feet3\text{ feet} is impossible, wait until safe clearance is available.
    • Work Zones & Move Over Law:
    • Drivers must move over or slow down for stationary emergency vehicles and tow trucks displaying flashing amber lights, and stopped road work vehicles displaying flashing amber lights.
    • Vehicles with Hazardous Loads:
    • Identified by diamond-shaped placards. Must stop before crossing all railroad tracks.
    • Towing / 3-Axle Vehicles:
    • Must drive in the far-right lane or designated slow lanes (two rightmost lanes on highways with 44\,or more lanes).

  • Speed Limits in Specific Areas:

    • School Zones: Speed limit is 25 mph25\text{ mph} within 500 feet500\text{ feet} of a school while children are outside or crossing (some zones posted as low as 15 mph15\text{ mph}).
    • School Buses: Yellow flashing lights signal drivers to slow down; flashing red lights require stopping from both directions on undivided roads until lights stop. Penalty for passing a flashing red school bus light: Fine up to 1,000\\1,000 and a 1-year1\text{-year} driver's license suspension. (Stopping is not required if on the opposite side of a divided or multilane highway).
    • Blind Intersections: Speed limit is 15 mph15\text{ mph} (where view is blocked for the last 100 feet100\text{ feet}).
    • Alleys: Speed limit is 15 mph15\text{ mph} (defined as roads no wider than 25 feet25\text{ feet} used for rear/side access).
    • Railroad Crossings: Speed limit is 15 mph15\text{ mph} within 100 feet100\text{ feet} if tracks are not visible for 400 feet400\text{ feet} in both directions. Stop at least 15 feet15\text{ feet} from the nearest track when warning systems activate.
    • Business or Residential Districts: Speed limit is 25 mph25\text{ mph} unless posted otherwise.

  • Additional Roadway Rules:

    • Smoking: Illegal to smoke inside a vehicle when a minor (1818\,years or younger) is present (subject to fine).
    • Animal Abandonment: Crime punishable by a fine of up to 1,000\\1,000, 6 months6\text{ months} in jail, or both.
    • Cargo Restrictions: Cannot carry loads extending past fenders on the left side, or extending more than 6 inches6\text{ inches} beyond fenders on the right side.
    • Cargo extending more than 4 feet4\text{ feet} past the rear bumper must display a 12-inch12\text{-inch} red or fluorescent orange square flag (22\,red lights at night).
    • Passengers in pickup beds must be in secure seats with seat belts. Animals in truck beds must be secured.
    • Windshield Restrictions / Object Placement:
    • Allowed locations for objects/stickers: A 7-inch7\text{-inch} square on the lower passenger corner of the windshield or rear window; a 5-inch5\text{-inch} square on the lower driver window; a 5-inch5\text{-inch} square in the top center of the windshield for toll payment devices; or on side windows behind the driver.
    • Funeral Processions: Led by traffic officers and have the right-of-way. Interrupting a procession is ticketable.

  • Evading Law Enforcement and Traffic Violations:

    • Evading law enforcement is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year1\text{ year} in county jail.
    • Causing serious bodily injury during a pursuit carries a sentence of state prison for up to 7 years7\text{ years} or county jail for 1 year1\text{ year}.
    • Manslaughter resulting from evading law enforcement carries a state prison sentence of 4 to 10 years4\text{ to }10\text{ years}.
    • Operating a vehicle by an unlicensed driver can lead to a 30-day30\text{-day} vehicle impoundment.
    • Provisional License Penalties (Minors):
    • 1 at-fault collision or traffic conviction: DMV warning.
    • 2 at-fault collisions/convictions: 30-day driving restriction unless accompanied by a licensed adult aged 2525\,or older.
    • 3 at-fault collisions/convictions: 6-month license suspension and 1-year1\text{-year} probation.
    • Alcohol/drug conviction (ages 15–20): 1-year license suspension or 1-year delay in eligibility.
    • Turning 1818\,years old does not erase existing suspensions or probation sentences.
    • Administrative Hearings: Requests for a DMV hearing regarding license actions must be submitted within 10 days10\text{ days} of receiving notice or 14 days14\text{ days} of mailing date (dmv.ca.gov/driversafety).

Section 6: Safe Driving

  • Scanning and Surroundings:

    • Scan the road at least 10 seconds10\text{ seconds} ahead of the vehicle to detect hazards early.
    • Areas around the vehicle: Ahead (green), Next to sides (blue), Blind spots (yellow), Behind (red).
    • Follow the 3-second3\text{-second} rule to maintain a safe distance. Increase following distance behind tailgaters, motorcyclists on loose/metal surfaces, or in bad weather.

  • Headlight Adjustments and Night Driving:

    • Use high beams on open country or dark city streets. Dim high beams within 500 feet500\text{ feet} of oncoming traffic or 300 feet300\text{ feet} of following traffic.
    • Manage sun glare by wearing polarized sunglasses, keeping windshields clean, and using visors.

  • Speed Reductions for Hazardous Road Conditions:

    • Wet Road: Reduce speed by 5 to 10 mph5\text{ to }10\text{ mph}.
    • Packed Snow: Reduce speed by half.
    • Ice: Reduce speed to no more than 5 mph5\text{ mph}.

  • Handling Skids:

    • Slippery Surface Skid: Take foot off accelerator, do not apply brakes, steer in the direction of the skid until a wheel touches dry pavement.
    • Locked Wheel Skid (4-Wheel ABS): Press firmly on the brake pedal.
    • Rear-Wheel ABS: Ease off the brake pedal while keeping light pressure so front wheels roll, then steer into the skid.
    • Front-Wheel ABS: Remove foot from brake pedal to unlock wheels and steer in desired direction.
    • Non-ABS Vehicles: Rapidly pump brakes. If brakes sink to floor, pump gently, downshift to lower gear, and use emergency brake.
    • Wet Brakes: Dry them by lightly pressing the accelerator and brake pedal simultaneously.

  • Hydroplaning and Adverse Conditions:

    • Hydroplaning occurs when tires lose contact with the wet road and ride on water. Drive slowly and avoid sudden braking.
    • Stuck in Snow or Mud: Shift to low gear, keep front wheels straight, step gently on gas, and rock the vehicle forward and backward between low gear and reverse. Place boards or branches under tires if stuck.
    • High Winds: Drive slowly, maintain firm grip on steering wheel, and disable cruise control.
    • Fog/Heavy Smoke: Drive slowly using low-beam headlights. Never drive using parking lights or fog lights alone.
    • Traffic Breaks: Conducted by officers weaving across lanes with emergency lights to slow or stop traffic for hazards.

  • Seat Belts and Passenger Restraints:

    • Drivers and passengers must wear seat belts. Drivers can receive citations for unbelted passengers under 1616\,years old.
    • Child Passenger Restraint System Requirements:
    • Under 22\,years old, under 40 pounds40\text{ pounds}, AND under 3 feet 4 inches3\text{ feet }4\text{ inches} tall: Must be secured in a rear-facing child restraint system in the back seat. Never put a rear-facing seat in the front seat of an airbag-equipped vehicle.
    • Under 88\,years old OR under 4 feet 9 inches4\text{ feet }9\text{ inches} tall: Must be secured in a child restraint system in a rear seat.
    • 88\,years or older OR at least 4 feet 9 inches4\text{ feet }9\text{ inches} tall: May use a properly fitted federal-standard safety belt.
    • Airbags: Driver must sit at least 10 inches10\text{ inches} away from the center of the steering wheel/airbag cover to the breastbone.
    • Unattended Children: Illegal to leave a child aged 66\,or younger unattended in a vehicle unless supervised by a person at least 1212\,years old.

  • Maximum Highway Speeds:

    • Ideal conditions maximum speed limit on most California highways is 65 mph65\text{ mph}.
    • Maximum speed limit is 55 mph55\text{ mph} on two-lane undivided highways and for vehicles towing trailers.

  • Handling Vehicle Emergencies:

    • Wheels Drift Off Pavement: Hold steering wheel firmly, remove foot from gas, brake gently, check traffic, steer smoothly back onto pavement.
    • Vehicle Disabled on Freeway: Pull onto right shoulder, exit on right side away from traffic, call 511 or locate call box, stay inside vehicle with seat belt on.
    • Stalled on Railroad Tracks with Train Approaching: Exit immediately, run diagonally away from tracks in the direction of the oncoming train, call 911.
    • Stalled on Railroad Tracks with No Train Approaching: Exit vehicle, call the emergency number on crossing post/box, give location number, then call 911.

  • Distracted Driving & Cell Phones:

    • Adults may only use cell phones in hands-free mode mounted on windshield (5-inch5\text{-inch} driver corner or 7-inch7\text{-inch} passenger corner), dashboard, or console, using single-swipe features.
    • Minors are strictly prohibited from using cell phones or wireless devices while driving, even in hands-free mode (except for emergency calls).
    • Carbon Monoxide Warning: Odorless deadly exhaust gas; never start a vehicle inside a closed garage.

Section 7: Alcohol and Drugs

  • DUI Laws and Refusal Consequences:

    • Applies to illegal drugs, prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and alcohol.
    • Refusing a requested blood or urine test upon law enforcement suspicion of DUI results in a mandatory 1-year1\text{-year} DMV license suspension or revocation.
    • Operating a bicycle under the influence (ages 13–20) results in a 1-year1\text{-year} driver's license suspension or eligibility delay.

  • Open Container Laws:

    • Carrying alcohol or cannabis products inside a vehicle requires containers to be factory-sealed and unopened.
    • Open containers must be stored in the trunk or non-passenger area (illegal to keep open containers in the glove box).

  • Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Legal Limits:

    • ≥0.08%\ge 0.08\%: Illegal for drivers aged 2121\,or older.
    • ≥0.01%\ge 0.01\%: Illegal for drivers under 2121\,years old or those on DUI probation.
    • ≥0.04%\ge 0.04\%: Illegal for drivers operating commercial vehicles or passenger vehicles for hire.

  • BAC Estimation Guidelines:

    • Subtract 0.01%0.01\% BAC for every 40 minutes40\text{ minutes} between drinks.
    • Standard Drink Equivalents: 1 drink=1.5 oz1\text{ drink} = 1.5\text{ oz} of 80-proof liquor = 12 oz12\text{ oz} of 5% beer = 5 oz5\text{ oz} of 12% wine.

  • DUI Penalties and Records:

    • DUI convictions carry a 1-year1\text{-year} driver's license suspension, mandatory completion of a DUI program, filing an SR 22 / SR 1P insurance certificate, reissuance fees, and potential installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
    • DUI convictions remain on a driver's record for 10 years10\text{ years}.
    • Possessing alcohol under age 2121 in a vehicle leads to up to 30 days30\text{ days} vehicle impoundment, fines, and a 1-year1\text{-year} license suspension.

Section 8: Financial Responsibility, Insurance Requirements, and Collisions

  • Minimum Insurance Mandatory Limits:

    • 30,000\\30,000 for single death or injury.
    • 60,000\\60,000 for death or injury to more than one person.
    • 15,000\\15,000 for property damage.
    • Parents/guardians accept financial responsibility for minor drivers under 1818\,years old.

  • Driving Without Insurance:

    • License will be suspended for up to 4 years4\text{ years} following any collision while uninsured, regardless of fault.
    • License reinstatement during the final 33\,years requires maintaining an SR 22 / SR 1P insurance certificate.

  • Collision Procedures and Reporting Requirements:

    • Drivers involved in collisions must stop immediately (leaving the scene is hit-and-run).
    • Report collisions to law enforcement within 24 hours24\text{ hours} if anyone is injured or killed.
    • Exchange driver's license, vehicle registration, address, and insurance info with all involved parties.
    • Mandatory DMV Reporting (SR 1 Form):
    • Must submit a Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR 1) to DMV within 10 days10\text{ days} at dmv.ca.gov/accidentreport if:
      • Property damage exceeds 1,000\\1,000.
      • Any person was injured or killed (regardless of how minor).
    • Applies regardless of fault or whether the collision occurred on private property. Failure to report results in license suspension.

Section 9: Seniors and Driving

  • Warning Signs of Impaired Driving Capabilities:

    • Getting lost in familiar surroundings.
    • Scrapes, dents, or damage on the car, mailboxes, garage doors, or fences.
    • Frequent close calls or collisions.

  • Self-Restriction Strategies:

    • Avoid or limit night driving; select well-lit travel routes.
    • Drive during off-peak hours with light traffic.
    • Avoid complex or difficult intersections.
    • Drive short distances to essential destinations and avoid freeways.
    • Install an additional right-side mirror.
    • Senior driver resources are available at dmv.ca.gov/seniors.