California Driver's Handbook Quiz

Questions and Answers

Where should you end a left turn to reduce the risk of collision?

In the left lane closest to the middle of the street.

What is the proper lane to start and end a right turn?

In the lane closest to the right edge of the road.

You can end your left turn from a two-way street onto a one-way street in any lane if there are three or more lanes.

True

What should you do when entering a highway?

Be in the proper lane, be at or near the speed of traffic, and merge safely. Signup and view all the answers

What space is necessary to safely enter traffic from a full stop on city streets?

Half a block, approximately 150 feet. Signup and view all the answers

To pass on the right, you can only do so when the driver ahead is turning _____ and you can safely pass.

left Signup and view all the answers

What does a solid red light mean?

Stop Signup and view all the answers

You should cross over solid lines when merging onto a highway.

False Signup and view all the answers

What parking rule is associated with a green curb?

Park for a limited time. Signup and view all the answers

When parking downhill, you should turn your wheels _____ the curb.

Toward Signup and view all the answers

During a law enforcement stop, what should you do with your hands?

Place them in clear view before the officer makes contact. Signup and view all the answers

What must you pass to obtain a California driver’s license?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

You can drive in California with an expired driver’s license.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is a REAL ID driver’s license required for?

Boarding an airplane for domestic flights, entering military bases, entering most federal facilities. Signup and view all the answers

California offers driver’s licenses for all residents regardless of ________ status.

immigration Signup and view all the answers

What is required to apply for an instruction permit in California?

Proof of identity, two proofs of residency, legal full name document, social security number. Signup and view all the answers

How long must you hold an instruction permit before scheduling your behind-the-wheel drive test if you are under 18?

6 months Signup and view all the answers

You do not need to notify DMV of a change in address.

False Signup and view all the answers

Who must sign the application for an instruction permit if you are under 18 years old?

A parent or guardian. Signup and view all the answers

Match the document with its purpose:

Driver’s License = Allows you to drive on public roads Instruction Permit = Required before taking the behind-the-wheel drive test ID Card = Issued for identification purposes REAL ID = Required for certain federal activities Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before your behind-the-wheel test?

Bring your instruction permit, proof of insurance, and a safe vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

What may happen if your driver's license and identity document expire on the same date?

You will be required to provide a valid identity document. Signup and view all the answers

It is legal to wear a headset or earplugs in both ears while driving.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the vision test for driver’s license applicants?

To ensure you can see well enough to drive safely Signup and view all the answers

How should you steer while using the hand-to-hand steering method?

Keep your hands at 9 and 3 or 8 and 4 o’clock. Signup and view all the answers

Your vehicle's headlights should be dimmed to low beams within ___ feet of an oncoming vehicle.

500 Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you see a collision or hazard ahead?

Warn drivers behind you using emergency flashers or brake lights. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT true about a single solid yellow line?

You can pass a vehicle if there's one lane of traffic. Signup and view all the answers

You can turn left against a red light when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street.

True Signup and view all the answers

Always signal at least ___ feet before turning.

100 Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the center left turn lane?

To prepare for and make a left turn or U-turn. Signup and view all the answers

When might you use one-hand steering?

When you are turning while backing up. Signup and view all the answers

You can use a bicycle lane while driving if you are parking.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should bicyclists do before turning or changing lanes?

Look over their shoulder Signup and view all the answers

Bicyclists are allowed to ride on the sidewalk at all times.

False Signup and view all the answers

What type of clothing should bicyclists avoid wearing at night?

Dark clothing Signup and view all the answers

The speed limit is ________ mph within 500 feet of a school while children are outside.

25 Signup and view all the answers

When are fines doubled in certain zones?

When workers are present Signup and view all the answers

If a school bus is on the other side of a divided highway, you must stop for it.

False Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you are approaching a blind intersection?

Slow down and move forward slowly to see your surroundings. Signup and view all the answers

What action is required when approaching a railroad crossing without a controlled gate?

Stop and look for trains Signup and view all the answers

Match the following traffic violations with their consequences:

Evading law enforcement = Imprisonment for up to one year Assaulting a highway worker = Fines up to $2,000 Reckless driving = Imprisonment, fines, or both Not stopping for a school bus = Fines up to $1,000 Signup and view all the answers

You must drive in the ________ lane when towing a vehicle or trailer.

far-right Signup and view all the answers

What is the speed limit within 100 feet of a railroad crossing if you cannot see the tracks for 400 feet?

15 mph Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a vehicle merges in front of you too closely?

Take your foot off the accelerator Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when a tailgater is behind you?

Maintain your course and speed, then merge right when safe. Signup and view all the answers

You should stay in another driver’s blind spot.

False Signup and view all the answers

Check your blind spots before you ______.

change lanes Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended action when driving at night?

Use high-beam headlights on open country roads. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if another vehicle’s lights are too bright?

Look toward the right edge of your lane Signup and view all the answers

What can cause your vehicle to skid?

Ice and packed snow on the road. Signup and view all the answers

How should you react if your vehicle begins to skid?

Slowly remove your foot from the accelerator Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to manage sun glare while driving?

Wear polarized sunglasses and keep your windshield clean. Signup and view all the answers

When another vehicle with one light drives toward you, drive as far to the ______ as possible.

right Signup and view all the answers

What does a solid green light mean?

Go Signup and view all the answers

You must always stop for any vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian in the intersection even when the light is green.

True Signup and view all the answers

What does a green arrow signal indicate?

Go in the direction the arrow points Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when a traffic light is not working?

Stop as if the intersection is controlled by STOP signs in all directions and proceed cautiously. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Don’t Walk' signal mean for pedestrians?

Do not start crossing Signup and view all the answers

The vehicle that arrives to the intersection _____ has the right-of-way.

first Signup and view all the answers

In a roundabout, you should yield to:

Traffic already in the roundabout Signup and view all the answers

Pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes do not have the right-of-way.

False Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when you see an emergency vehicle with its siren and lights on?

Pull over to the right edge of the road and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed. Signup and view all the answers

Slow-moving vehicles often display an orange and red _____ on their back.

triangle Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum speed NEVs and LSVs can reach?

25 mph Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

California Driver's Handbook Overview

Handbook is accessible online at dmv.ca.gov.
Aims to inform drivers about safe practices on California roads.

Traffic Safety Issues

Over 30,000 fatalities and 100,000 serious injuries occurred on California roads since 2010.
Significant increases in pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities: nearly 50% for pedestrians and over 60% for bicyclists.
Emphasis on defensive driving, awareness of pedestrians, and not driving distracted or impaired.

Licensing Information

A California driver's license is essential for driving on public roads.
Different classes of licenses cater to various vehicle types: noncommercial Class C for standard vehicles; specific licenses for motorcycles and commercial vehicles.

REAL ID Requirements

Beginning May 2025, a REAL ID is necessary for domestic flight boarding and access to federal facilities.
California offers driver’s licenses to all residents, regardless of immigration status.

Applying for Instruction Permit and Driver’s License

Requirement to provide proof of identity and residency for obtaining a permit.
Minors must be at least 15½ years old and complete a driver education program, with parental consent needed.
Must practice driving under supervision before taking the behind-the-wheel test.

Driver’s License Testing Process

Vision Test: Required to ensure eyesight meets safety standards.
Knowledge Test: Multiple-choice; three attempts permitted before reapplication.
Behind-the-Wheel Test: Assess practical driving skills; vehicle and proof of insurance required.

Minor’s Restrictions after Licensing

Provisional license holders under 18 face certain driving restrictions: no driving between 11 PM and 5 AM, limited to specific passengers.
Exceptions exist for medical needs, school or work commitments, or immediate family driving.

License Changes and Renewals

Must update DMV with changes of address within ten days.
Process for replacing or renewing licenses available online or in office; identity verification may be needed.

Health Considerations for Drivers

Drivers should be aware of physical and mental health impacts on driving ability.
Fatigue, medications, and heeding auditory warnings are crucial for ensuring safety.
Medical professionals must report conditions affecting safe driving.

Vehicle Control Techniques

Maintain proper hand positioning on the steering wheel (e.g., 9 and 3 o’clock position).
Importance of consistent steering control and awareness of surroundings while driving.### Steering Techniques
Avoid crossing hands over the steering wheel; maintain hand positions at 8 and 4 o'clock.
Hand-over-hand steering technique is useful for low-speed turns, parking, or recovering from skids.
One-hand steering is acceptable when backing up or operating controls that require a hand off the wheel.

Signaling and Communication

Always signal before turns, lane changes, slowdowns, or stops—100 feet in advance.
Use vehicle signal lights or hand-and-arm gestures when necessary.
Turn off signals once maneuvers are complete to avoid confusion.

Horn, Headlights, and Emergency Flashers

Use the horn to alert drivers or prevent collisions, especially in tight visibility scenarios like mountain roads.
Headlights should be dimmed within 500 feet of oncoming traffic; use low beams in low visibility.
Turn on emergency flashers or tap brake lights to signal hazards to traffic behind.

Traffic Lane Markings

Solid yellow lines indicate no passing; double solid lines signal a barrier.
Broken yellow lines allow passing only when safe.
Solid white lines separate traffic in the same direction; double white lines indicate lane barriers.

Choosing and Changing Lanes

Use the left lane primarily for passing; the right lane is for entering/exiting traffic.
Signal, check mirrors, review blind spots, and ensure sufficient space before changing lanes.
Avoid weaving through traffic; stay in one lane as much as possible.

Special Lane Types

High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes are for buses, carpools, or low-emission vehicles.
Center left turn lanes are used exclusively for left turns; limit use to 200 feet.
Bicycle lanes must be respected and are typically marked; illegal to drive in them without specific reasons.

Making Turns

For right turns, signal early, check for cyclists and pedestrians, and complete the turn in the right lane.
Right turns at red lights are permitted after stopping unless otherwise indicated.
For left turns, ensure proper lane positioning, yield to oncoming traffic, and signal beforehand.

U-Turns and Turn Examples

U-turns are allowed in certain situations, like at intersections when safe; prohibited by signs or where visibility is poor.
Understand the specifics of completing turns from various lane types to avoid accidents.

Braking and Merging

Remove foot from the accelerator when preparing to stop; maintain distance from other vehicles.
Highway merging requires matching traffic speed and using mirrors to ensure safety.

Crossing and Entering Traffic

When entering traffic, ensure enough space to reach traffic speed; maintain awareness of obstacles even with a green signal.
Safely pass other vehicles, judging whether sufficient space exists based on roadway conditions and surrounding traffic.### Safe Passing Guidelines
Only pass when the hill or curve is at least one-third of a mile ahead to ensure visibility.
Avoid passing near intersections, bridges, tunnels, railroad crossings, and other hazards, with a minimum distance of 100 feet.
Do not pass unless it's safe to return to your lane.

Proper Passing Procedures

Signal intent to pass and check blind spots before entering the passing lane.
Accelerate to overtake the vehicle and signal before returning to your lane.
You may pass on the right under specific conditions: multiple lanes, when the driver in front is turning left, or while on a one-way street.
Always avoid driving off the paved road to pass other vehicles.

Receiving Vehicles Being Passed

Maintain speed and lane position when another vehicle is passing.
Allow other vehicles to pass without interference.

Parallel Parking Steps

Find a space at least three feet longer than your vehicle and signal your intention to park.
Position your vehicle alongside the car ahead, leaving two feet of space.
Check blind spots before backing up and turn at a 45-degree angle into the parking space.
Straighten the vehicle once your rear wheels are close to the curb, ensuring parallel parking within 18 inches of the curb.

Backing Up in a Straight Line

Always check traffic and blind spots before backing up.
Use appropriate signals and maintain a straight path within three feet of the curb.
Control your speed and adjust your steering as necessary.

Parking on a Hill

Set the parking brake and leave the vehicle in park or in gear.
Turn wheels appropriately: toward the curb when downhill, away when uphill, and toward the shoulder when no curb.

Colored Curb Parking Rules

White: Temporary stop for loading/unloading passengers.
Green: Limited parking time.
Yellow: Loading/unloading goods.
Red: No stopping or parking.
Blue: Designated for vehicles with disabled permits.

Illegal Parking Rules

Avoid parking near fire hydrants, on crosswalks, sidewalks, or in diagonal lines next to disabled spaces.
No parking on freeways unless under specific circumstances.

Law Enforcement Stops

Acknowledge the officer with a right turn signal and move to the right shoulder.
Remain inside the vehicle and keep hands visible until contacted.
Officers must state the reason for the stop before questioning starts.

Rights During Law Enforcement Stops

You can decline permission for searches but should not obstruct officers.
Provide necessary documentation (license, insurance, registration) upon request.
Passengers are generally not required to identify themselves but should comply if demanded.

Traffic Signals Overview

Red Light: Stop; right turns permitted unless posted otherwise.
Yellow Light: Caution; prepare to stop if safe.
Green Light: Go; stop for pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
Flashing signals indicate specific instructions regarding caution and right-of-way.

Pedestrian Signals

WALK: Safe to cross the street.
DON’T WALK: Do not cross street.
Countdown timers indicate seconds remaining for crossing.

Right-of-Way Rules

The first vehicle to arrive at an intersection has the right-of-way.
At uncontrolled intersections, yield to the vehicle or pedestrian on your right.
Pedestrians always have the right-of-way, necessitating careful attention at crossings.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the California Driver's Handbook with this engaging quiz. Covering essential topics for renewing your driver's license and other key details, this quiz will help ensure you are well-prepared for the road. Perfect for both new and seasoned drivers in California.