California DMV Driving Test Guide

Larger vehicles, like trucks and SUVs, have larger blind spots, especially near their rear, that cannot be seen in their side or rearview mirrors.

When entering interstate traffic from an acceleration ramp, you must yield to drivers already on the interstate highway. Merge safely when possible.

If you miss your exit on the interstate, continue driving and use the next exit. Do not attempt to make a last-minute turn.

Motorcycles are entitled to the same full lane width as other vehicles. Lane usage for motorcyclists is critical.

If your vehicle begins to skid, remain calm. Steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid overcorrecting.

A flashing red traffic light indicates a dangerous intersection. Stop completely before proceeding.

When approaching a steady green light, yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk and vehicles within the intersection. Proceed cautiously at a speed that allows for stopping if the light changes.

A steady yellow arrow indicates an upcoming red arrow. Prepare to stop unless you are already within the intersection.

When merging onto a freeway, you should match the speed of other vehicles to avoid causing hazards.

To avoid sudden maneuvers, look down the road 10 to 15 seconds ahead, allowing you to predict potential hazards.

When making a left turn, signal continuously for the last 100 feet before initiating the turn.

The speed limit in residential areas is 25 mph unless otherwise posted.

You must file a DMV report if a collision results in injury, death, or over $1,000 in property damage.

Parking next to a red painted curb is prohibited except for buses in designated areas.

Two sets of solid double yellow lines indicate a barrier that cannot be crossed for any reason except at designated openings.

Drive no faster than the posted speed limit, even if other vehicles exceed it.

When driving, you should watch the oncoming vehicle out of the corner of your eye while looking towards the right edge of your lane.

When being tailgated, increase the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Do not brake suddenly, instead slow down gradually or change lanes to avoid a collision.

Regularly check your rearview mirrors to stay aware of the vehicles around you and prevent a fixed stare.

When you can't see cross traffic until you're almost inside the intersection due to no stop signs on any corner, the speed limit is 15 mph.

If your vehicle starts to lose traction due to water on the road, slowly reduce your speed but do not apply the brakes.

When you see an emergency vehicle approaching with its siren and flashing lights, continue through the intersection, then pull to the right and stop.

Ignoring a peace officer's signal to pull over can result in a misdemeanor charge, leading to potential imprisonment in the county jail for up to a year.

This situation involves an uncontrolled intersection where you cannot see cross traffic until you're on the verge of entering. This intersection is considered blind because it lacks stop signs and visibility is limited for 100 feet before crossing.

A green arrow on a traffic signal indicates that you may turn in the direction of the arrow, after yielding to traffic and pedestrians already in the intersection.

Be prepared to reduce your speed and be extra cautious when directed by a crossing guard, sign, or law enforcement officer in a school zone.

The sign indicates the end of a reduced speed zone where you may then drive at the regular speed limit.

Downward-facing triangular signs typically require drivers to yield to oncoming traffic or pedestrians.

Round signs often warn drivers of upcoming railroad crossings.

Crossbuck signs tell drivers to yield to trains at railroad crossings.

At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to arrive has the right-of-way, with vehicles arriving at the same time yielding to the vehicle on the right.

It is important to be able to see clearly through all of your vehicle's windows, including the windshield. Remove all snow, ice, and frost from your vehicle's windows and mirrors before driving.

When approaching an intersection with a yield sign, you must reduce speed and give priority to other vehicles already in the intersection or entering it.

Upon seeing a transit vehicle signaling its return to the main road after stopping, you must let it merge safely by slowing down, changing lanes, or stopping if needed.

A defensive driver anticipates potential hazards and observes the actions of others on the road to stay safe.

Use low beam headlights in foggy, rainy, or snowy conditions to avoid glare that can impair visibility.

If your tire blows out, gradually slow down by releasing the accelerator. Only apply the brakes once the vehicle has slowed considerably.

During the initial 30 minutes of rain, extra caution is needed while turning or stopping. Wet roads can be slippery due to oil mixed with rainwater.

At a four-way stop, if two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the right has the right-of-way. Proceed safely after yielding.

You should not rely on coffee, exercise, or cold showers to reduce the effects of alcohol. These activities only help you stay awake, but do not affect your BAC.

Driving on narrow roads in mountainous areas or rural regions requires extra caution, even in sunny weather, due to potential hazards like sharp corners and uneven surfaces.

A sudden and uncontrollable skid occurs when a driver brakes too forcefully, causing the wheels to lock and lose traction. This usually happens when going fast.

If a green arrow turns into a solid green light, you are permitted to proceed in the direction indicated by the arrow, but you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.

When turning right at a green light, always yield right-of-way to pedestrians within the intersection. You may turn right at a steady green light unless prohibited.

Children playing near roads are prone to unpredictable movements, often running out into traffic without looking, increasing the risk of an accident.

When encountering a railroad crossing with multiple tracks, always wait until you have a clear view of all tracks before proceeding. Even after a train passes, ensure no other trains approach before crossing.

While backing up, always look through the rear window to ensure your surroundings are clear. Mirrors alone are insufficient for safe backing up. It's necessary to visually confirm your surroundings.

Effective communication with other road users is crucial for preventing accidents. Predictable actions help other drivers anticipate movements and respond accordingly.