Arkansas Driver's License Study Guide PDF

ARKANSAS DRIVER LICENSE STUDY GUIDE VOLUME 1 – EDITION 8 January 2018  LITTERING: IT’S AGAINST THE LAW. With a driver license comes the responsibility of being familiar with the laws of the road. As a driver you are accountable for what may be thrown from the vehicle onto a...

ARKANSAS DRIVER LICENSE STUDY GUIDE VOLUME 1 – EDITION 8 January 2018  LITTERING: IT’S AGAINST THE LAW. With a driver license comes the responsibility of being familiar with the laws of the road. As a driver you are accountable for what may be thrown from the vehicle onto a city street or state highway. 8-6-404 PENALTIES (a)(1)(A)(i) A person convicted of a violation of § 8-6-406 or § 8-6-407 for a first offense shall be guilty of an unclassified misdemeanor and shall be fined in an amount of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) and not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000). (ii) An additional sentence of not more than eight (8) hours of community service shall be imposed under this subdivision (a) (1) (A). (B)(i) A person convicted of a violation of § 8-6-406 or § 8-6- court pursuant to this section. 407 for a second or subsequent offense within three (3) years 8-6-407 COMMERCIAL REFUSE HAULING BY of the first offense shall be guilty of an unclassified UNCOVERED VEHICLES misdemeanor and shall be fined in an amount of not less than It shall be unlawful for any person engaged in commercial or two hundred dollars ($200) and not more than two thousand for-hire hauling to operate any truck or other vehicle within dollars ($2,000). this state to transport litter, trash, or garbage unless the (ii) An additional sentence of not more than twenty-four (24) vehicle is covered to prevent its contents from blowing, hours of community service may be imposed under this dropping, falling off, or otherwise departing from the vehicle. subdivision (a) (1) (B). In addition, any person operating his own truck or other (2) In addition to those penalties, any violator may also be vehicle to transport litter, trash, or garbage shall take required to remove litter from alongside highways and at reasonable steps to prevent its contents from blowing, other appropriate locations for any prescribed period. dropping, falling off, or otherwise departing from the vehicle. (b) Any person who violates § 8-6-406 or § 8-6-407 and who However, no vehicle hauling predominately metallic material is found to have committed the prohibited acts in furtherance shall be required to be covered if it is loaded in a manner of or as a part of a commercial enterprise, whether or not that which will prevent the material from falling or dropping from enterprise is the disposal of wastes, shall be guilty of the vehicle. commercial littering and shall be guilty of a Class A 8-6-408 DISCARDING CERTAIN ITEMS PROHIBITED misdemeanor. Additionally, those convicted may be required It shall be unlawful for any person to place or cause to be to remove any litter disposed of in violation of this subchapter. placed any junk motor vehicle, old vehicle tire, or inoperative (c) Any person who violates any provision of § 8-6-408 shall or abandoned household appliance, or part thereof, upon the be guilty of: right-of-way of any public highway, upon any other public (1) An unclassified misdemeanor for a first offense and shall property, or upon any private property which he does not be fined one thousand dollars ($1,000) and sentenced to one own, lease, rent, or otherwise control, unless it is at a salvage hundred (100) hours of community service; and yard, a permitted disposal site, or at the business (2) A Class A misdemeanor for a second or subsequent establishment of a demolisher. offense. (d)(1) All or any portion of the fines, community service, and 8-6-409 PRIMA FACIE EVIDENCE AGAINST DRIVERS imprisonment penalties provided by this section may be If the throwing, dumping, or depositing of litter was done from suspended by the judge if the violator agrees to remove litter a motor vehicle, except a motor bus, it shall be prima facie from alongside highways and at other appropriate locations evidence that the throwing, dumping, or depositing was done for a prescribed period. by the driver of the motor vehicle. (e) In addition to all other penalties, any person convicted of a violation of § 8-6-406 or § 8-6-407 who fails to pay any fines assessed in accordance with the findings and orders of the court shall have his or her driver's license suspended for six (6) months by the Department of Finance and Administration, upon receipt of an order of denial of driving privileges from the  ARKANSAS STATE POLICE WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE STOPPED BY A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER The steps outlined below provide drivers with basic information of what to do when stopped by a law enforcement officer or when passing a law enforcement officer stopped alongside a roadway to ensure the officer’s safety, the safety of the driver and any passengers. 1. Pull over to the right side of the road – activate your turn signal or emergency flashers to indicate to the officer that you are seeking a safe place to stop. 2. If you are unsure if you are being stopped by an actual police officer, activate your turn signal or emergency flashers and pull to the nearest well-lit location, or dial 9-1-1 and request confirmation that an actual police officer is attempting to stop you. 3. Pull to the nearest/safest spot out of the traffic lane (Do not stop on bridges or overpasses). 4. Remain in the vehicle unless instructed by the officer to exit. 5. Ensure that both hands are visible to the officer as he or she approaches (ex: placing your hands on the top of the steering wheel) and at all times during the stop. 6. Do not make any sudden movements while looking for your documents or throughout the stop. 7. If you are stopped at night, turn on the interior lights of the vehicle if possible so that the officer can see you more clearly. 8. Turn off the radio, put down any mobile devices, and give the officer your full attention during the stop. 9. The officer should introduce himself or herself by name, the agency he or she represents, and tell you the reason for the stop (A.C.A. § 12-12-1403). 10. In accordance with Arkansas laws (A.C.A. §§ 27-22-104, 27-16-601, and 27-14- 714), you are required to provide the officer with your driver’s license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration when requested. 11. Inform the officer where the documents are located and ask before reaching to retrieve them. 12. Be sure to inform the officer if there is a weapon in the vehicle, the type of weapon and the location. You should not reach for the weapon. Follow the instructions of the officer concerning any weapon inside the vehicle. 13. If you have a concealed carry permit, present it to the officer with your driver’s license. 14. The officer may approach the driver’s side or the passenger side of the vehicle. Do not be alarmed. The officer will approach in the safest manner possible. 15. Be courteous to the officer, even if you disagree with his or her actions. 16. If you wish to contest a citation, you should contact the court listed on the citation. Do not attempt to argue with the officer on the side of the road. 17. You may be required to sign a citation. Signing a citation is not an admission of guilt. It is just a promise to appear in court at the designated time or to pay the fine before the court date. Failure to sign a citation, if required, may force the officer to conduct a physical arrest and require that you post a bond prior to release. This may also result in the impoundment of your vehicle. 18. If you observe a traffic stop that does not involve you, do not approach the officer. 19. If you are passing an officer or other authorized vehicle stopped on the side of the road, Arkansas Law (A.C.A. § 27-51-310) requires that you move to the farthest lane or position away from the authorized vehicle as you pass. If it is unsafe or not possible to change lanes, then the law required you to reduce your speed as you pass. In all cases the driver shall exercise due caution. Following these tips doesn’t mean that you won’t get a citation, but it does mean that you are doing what you can to ensure the safety of the general public and the law enforcement officers that you may encounter.  MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE PLATE RENEWAL THROUGH THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY Technology has allowed Arkansas to provide vehicle owners convenient methods to renew passenger car, pickup, and motorcycle license tags, and avoid making a trip to a Revenue Office. After receiving their renewal notice—and if the notice reflects that their vehicle is currently assessed, personal property taxes have been paid, and they have current insurance—vehicle owners may use the online renewal system by accessing www.arstar.com. Tags may be renewed online via their smart phone, personal computer, or tablet. Persons renewing their registration through AR Star will receive their new registration certificate and license plate decals in the mail within 3 to 5 days. Even if they wait until the end of the month, they may print a receipt to keep in their vehicle, which will be recognized by law enforcement until their new decal is received. Vehicle owners may also renew by phone by calling 800-941-2580 and follow the prompts using their telephone keypad. As with the online renewal, the registration certificate and license plate decals will be received in the mail within 3 to 5 days. With online or phone renewal, payment is made by credit card or e-check. Selected Arkansas State Revenue offices have implemented a new automated kiosk system to simplify the vehicle renewal process and improve traffic flow in Revenue Offices. Persons using the kiosk system can avoid waiting in line and will leave with their new registration and license plate decals in hand. The kiosk is the same system used for online renewals. Another feature offered through technology is a method to remind citizens of the steps that must be taken before they renew their tags. Citizens may access this feature at www.DueBeforeYouRenew.com to sign up for alerts indicating when it is time to assess personal property, pay property tax, and when their vehicles are due for renewal. This notification system was created using a new app known as Gov2Go and was created in partnership with the Information Network of Arkansas. Gov2Go can be downloaded at www.getgov2go.com.  Table of Content INTRODUCTION 1 THE DRIVERS LICENSE 2 Types of Graduated Licenses 3  Instruction Permit 3  Learner’s License 3  Intermediate License 4  Class D License 4  Class M (Motorcycle) License 4  Class MD (Motor driven Cycle) License 5  Motorized Bicycle Certificate 5 Vision Requirements 5 Keeping the Drivers License 6 Countries Exempt from Testing 6 ACCEPTED IDENTIFICATION LIST 7 Applicants Eighteen (18) years or older 7  Primary Documents 7  Secondary Documents 7 Applicants Under Eighteen (18) years of age 8 Signature of Parent or Legal Guardian 8 School Attendance/Notice of Intent to Home School/GED/Diploma 8 BEFORE YOU DRIVE 9 Inspecting Your Vehicle 9  Vehicle Seats 9  Vehicle Seat Demonstration 10  Vehicle Mirrors 11  Inside Mirrors 11  Side-view Mirrors 11  Braking system 11  Lights 11  Windshield Wipers 12  Tires 13  Steering System 13  Suspension System 13  Exhaust System 14  Engine 14   Loose Objects 14  Horn 14 Keeping Your Field of Vision Clean and Clear 15 Routine Safety Check Before Driving 15  Outside the Vehicle 15  Inside the Vehicle 15 ARKANSAS SEAT BELT LAW 16 Use of Safety Belts and Child Restraints 17 THE LAW ON LITTERING 18 UNATTENDED CHILDREN AND PETS 18 RULES OF THE ROAD 19 Construction /Maintenance Safety Zone 19  Work Zone Signs 20 Traffic Controls 21  Lighted Traffic Signals 21  Flashing Lights 22  Lighted Arrows 22 Right of Way 23 One Way Traffic Light Rule 23 Traffic Control Signs 24  Stop Signs 24  Speed Limit Signs 24  Do Not Enter Signs 24  Yield 25  Slow Moving Vehicle Signs 25  Service Signs 25  Route Signs 25  Designation Signs 26 Railroad Crossing Signs 26  Round Yellow Advance Warning Signs 26  Pavement Markings 26  Cross Buck Sign 27  Gates and Lights 27  Emergency Notification System (ENS) 27  Railroad Exempt Signs 28  School Bus and a Railroad Crossing 28  Multiple Tracks 29   Railroad Safety Tips 29 Roadway Signs 30  Warning Signs 30  Regulation Signs 31  Control Signs 31  Passing Signs 31 Lanes of Traffic 32  Pavement Markings 32  Fog Lines/Lane Lines 32  White lane Markings (dashed) 32  White Lane Markings (solid) 32 Crosswalks and Stop Lines 32  Crosswalks 32  Stop Line 32 Yellow Lane Markings 33  Solid Double Yellow Line 33  Broken Yellow Line 33  Solid Broken Yellow Line 33 Shared Center Lane 33 Unmarked Lanes 34 Passing 34 Turning 34  Right Turns 35  Left Turns 35 Multiple Lanes 35 Right of Way 36 Intersections 36  Pedestrians 36  Left Turns 36  Right of Way at Stop Signs 37  General Right of Way Rules 38  Passing 38  Emergency Vehicles 39 School Buses 40  Two-lane Roadway Stop 41  Two-lane Roadway with Center Line 41  Four-lane Roadway without Median Separation 41   Divided Highway of Four Lanes or More 41  School Bus Danger Zones 41  Isaac’s Law §5-10-105 41 Parking 42  Curb parking 42 No Parking Zones 42  Red Curbs 43  Yellow Curbs 43 AR GOVERNOR’S COMMISION ON PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 44 SAFE DRIVING 45 Operating the Motor Vehicle 45  Seat Belt 45  Starting the Engine 46  Acceleration 46  Steering the Vehicle 46  Monitor Vehicle Speed 47  Stopping 47 DISTRACTED DRIVING 48 What is Distracted Driving 48 Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving 48 Most Dangerous Distractions 49 The Pledge 50 Getting Involved 50 Stay Alert 50 Looking Ahead 51 Looking to the Sides 51 Intersections 52 Looking Behind 52 Changing Lanes 52 Slowing 53 Backing 53 Moving along Steep Inclines 53 SEE AND BE SEEN 54 External Vehicle Lights 54 High and Low Beam Headlights 54 Warning Horn 55 Emergency Flashers/Hazard Lights 55  Blind Spots 56  Blind spot tip 56 LET OTHER DRIVERS KNOW YOUR INTENTIONS 57 Signaling to Change Directions & Slow 57 ADJUSTING THE VEHICLE SPEED 58 Adjusting to Road Conditions 58  Curves 58  Slippery Roads 58  Water on the Roadway 59 ADJUSTING TO THE FLOW OF TRAFFIC 60 Keeping Pace 60 Merging with Traffic 60 Exiting Traffic 60 Slow Moving Traffic 61 Trouble Spots 61 VISIBILITY AND REACTION 62 Hazards 62  Darkness 62  Rain, Fog or Snow 62  Hills and Curves 62  Parked Vehicles 62  Sight-Distance Rule 62  Speed Limits 62 Distance and Reaction 63  Following Distance 63  Slippery Roads 63  The Driver Behind You Wants to Pass 63  Following Motorcycles 63  Following Drivers Who Cannot See Your Vehicle 63  Towing 63  Poor Visibility 63  Following Emergency Vehicles 63  Approaching Railroad Crossings 63  Stopping on an Incline 63 THE SAFETY CUSHION 64 Traffic to the Rear 64 Traffic to the Side 64  Merging 65 Intersecting Traffic 65 Passing Distance 65 Oncoming Vehicles 66 Hills and Curves 66 Intersections 66 Lane Obstructions 67 BEWARE- UNUSUAL TRAFFIC CIRCUMSTANCES 68 Individuals Who Cannot See You 68 Individuals Who Are Distracted 68 Individuals Who May Be Disoriented or Confused 68 Consideration of Other Drivers 68 Approaching a Law Enforcement Vehicle w/Emergency Lights On 68 TRACTOR TRAILER RIGS- WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 69 Braking 69 Turning 69 Avoiding the Tractor-Trailer “No Zone” 70 Maneuverability 71 SHARING THE ROAD WITH BICYCLES 72 Safety Tips for Motor Vehicle Drivers 72 Residential Areas Are Danger Zones 73 Lane Positions for Bicycles 73 SHARING THE ROAD WITH MOTORCYCLIST 74 Situations Where Crashes Are More Likely To Occur 74  Changing Lanes and Car’s Blind Spots 74  Hazardous Road Conditions 74  Strong Winds 74  Obstructed view by Larger Vehicles 74  Look Twice for Motorcycles 74  Signal Your Intentions 75  Respect A Motorcycle 75  Allow Plenty of Space When Following a Motorcycle 75 DRIVING FITNESS 76 Vision 76  Peripheral Vision 76  Judging Distance and Speed 76  Night Vision 76  Hearing 77 Fatigue 77 DINKING AND DRIVING 78 Alcohol Impairment 78 Body Metabolism 79 Alcohol and the Law 79 Other Types of Drugs and Driving 80 Health 80  Epilepsy 80  Diabetes 81  Heart Condition 81  Emotional Distress 81 EMERGENCIES 82 Vehicle Emergencies 82  Brake Failure 82  Blowouts 82  Engine Failure 82  Headlight Failure 82  Faulty Accelerator 82 Avoiding Collisions 83  Stopping 83 o With ABS 83 o Without ABS 83  Turning 83 o With ABS 83 o Without ABS 83 Accelerating 83 Skids 84  Stay off the Brake 84  Steer 84  Continue to Steer 84 Protect Yourself 84  Rear Impact 84  Side Impact 85  Front Impact 85  Traffic Crashes 85  Crash Scenes 85 o Assisting the Injured 86 o Keep a Record of Crash Information 86 SKILLS TEST GUIDELINES 87 Preparing for the Skill Exam 87 Vehicle Inspection 87 Performance Guidelines 87 Skills 1-2-3 Check List 89 ARKANSAS ORGAN & TISSUE DONOR INFORMATION 90 LICENSE CODES FOR DRIVERS LICENSE AND COMMERCIAL LICENSE 91  PLEASE RETURN THIS STUDY GUIDE TO YOUR DRIVERS LICENSE EXAMINER Published January 2017  INTRODUCTION This study guide offers information about Arkansas rules of the road and how to apply safe driving practices. When the rules and safe driving practices are followed this manual will serve not only as the foundation to help you become a good driver; but also to help you prepare and pass the knowledge and skill (driving portion) part of the exams. Be sure to read the drivers manual carefully. The more you are familiar with the information within the guide, the higher your chances for passing the knowledge exam and skills test. Reading the manual will inform you of the documents needed to test. The Arkansas State Police is not associated with any Phone Apps or any other website or drivers manual other than the manual provided by the Arkansas State Police. ACT 1289 of 2015 THIS ACT REQUIRES A $5.00 FEE FOR EACH WRITTEN EXAMINATION. THERE SHALL BE NO LIMIT TO THE NUMBER OF EXAMS CHARGED AT THE TIME OF LICENSE. THE FEE WILL BE ADDED TO THE COST OF YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE AND COLLECTED BY THE ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION. THE EXAM FEE SHALL BE SEPARATE FROM THE DUPLICATE FEE. 1 THE DRIVERS LICENSE Anyone who operates a motor vehicle, motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle on public highways in Arkansas is required to have a license or certificate. Drivers are required to have an Arkansas driver license, if they have moved into the state for more than six (6) months as a non-resident, or within thirty (30) days of becoming a resident. Proof of Residency: 27-16-606. When residents and nonresidents to obtain state registration and license (a) Within thirty (30) calendar days of becoming a resident, any person who is a resident of this state shall obtain an Arkansas driver’s license in order to drive upon the streets and highways of this state. (b) Any nonresident who has been physically present in this state for a period of six (6) months shall obtain an Arkansas driver’s license in order to drive upon the streets and highways of this state. The following individuals can drive on Arkansas streets and roadways provided they have a valid license from another state or an individual, who is at least sixteen years old.  Military – Members of the Armed Forces on active duty, or members of foreign military on temporary duty with the U.S. Armed Forces. Act 235 of 2005 permits U.S. military spouses to obtain an Arkansas Driver License without testing, if the spouse has held a driver license that expired while residing outside the United States.  Student – Students attending classes who are considered non-residents under rules regulating payment of tuition. Examples: College or Exchange Students An individual may obtain driver license if:  You are at least fourteen (14) years of age (restricted license)  You are at least eighteen (18) years of age (non-restricted license)  You are under eighteen (18) years of age and submit the Department of Finance & Administration Notification Driver’s Attendance Form (i.e. school form)  You can submit proof of name, residential address, and date of birth.  You have a parent or legal guardian to consent, if under eighteen (18) years of age.  You pass a drivers knowledge and skills test.  You have a valid hard copy driver’s license from another state. Cannot be expired for more than thirty (30) calendar days.  You are not suspended or revoked or expired or denied in whole or in part by Arkansas or any 2  other state, or one year has passed from any revocation.  You legally reside within the United States  You have not been judged by a court to be mentally incompetent, an alcoholic, or a habitual user of illegal narcotics.  You have no judgments pending for a moving traffic violation. TYPES OF GRADUATED DRIVERS LICENSES On July 1, 2001, Arkansas implemented a graduated driver license program. This program was designed to allow drivers to gradually become safe and experienced drivers, while continuing the learning process of driving upon our street and highways. For further information concerning the graduated license program contact Arkansas Department of Finance & Administration, Office of Driver Services at (501)682-7059 or http://www.arkansas.gov/dfa/. Instruction Permits (except Motorcycle), Learner’s Licenses, Intermediate Licenses and Class D Licenses may operate an automobile or other four-wheel vehicle with a gross weigh rating (GVWR) under 26,001 pounds. Any vehicle designed to transport sixteen (16) or more passengers or transport “hazardous material” must have a Commercial License. For more information, please refer to the Arkansas Commercial Driver License Manual or visit the Arkansas State Police website at https://static.ark.org/eeuploads/asp/cdl_manual_2003.pdf. Instruction Permit- An individual who does not have an Arkansas driver license must obtain an Arkansas instruction permit to practice their driving skills. The applicant with an instruction permit may drive with a licensed driver twenty-one (21) years of age or older, who is occupying a seat beside the driver. A motorcycle permit does not require a licensed driver. In order to apply for an instruction permit, the applicant must be at least fourteen (14) years of age. The applicant must pass the knowledge exam and vision test to receive the instruction permit. If the applicant is under eighteen (18), the applicant must present an original birth certificate, Department of Finance & Administration Notification Driver’s Attendance Form for Students (school form) and parent or legal guardian to sign the application. The permit will be issued for 1 (one) year from the date of passed knowledge exam. The permit cannot be extended past one (1) year. All passengers riding in a motor vehicle with a driver, who has an instruction permit must wear seat belts. Learner’s License- This is a restricted license issued to persons between fourteen (14) and sixteen (16) years of age. In order to receive a Learner’s License, the applicant must have a valid Instruction Permit indicating a completion of the knowledge exam, vision and skills test. Upon completion the applicant will return to any Arkansas Revenue Office to receive the Learner’s License. This license will be restricted until the applicant’s sixteenth (16th) birthday AND the six (6) months of restricted driving is complete. A person operating a motor vehicle with a Learner’s License must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least twenty-one (21) years of age and all passengers must wear seat belts. The use of a cell phone, whether it is talking or texting, is prohibited by law except for an emergency. 3 The applicant cannot be involved in any traffic crash or be convicted of a serious traffic violation within the preceding six (6) months prior to application. Intermediate License-This license is a restricted license issued to persons between sixteen (16) and eighteen (18) year of age. In order to receive an Intermediate License, the applicant must have a valid Instruction Permit indicating a completion of the knowledge exam, vision and skills test. Upon completion the applicant will return to any Arkansas Revenue Office to receive the Intermediate License. The applicant will be restricted for six (6) months from the date of permit issuance or until the applicant’s sixteenth (16th) birthday, if the six months has been met when the applicant turns sixteen (16), no restriction will be applied to the Intermediate license. A person operating a motor vehicle with a restricted Intermediate License must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least twenty-one (21) years of age, until the restricted time is complete and all passengers must wear seat belts. The period of restricted time is recorded on the reverse side of the driver’s license. The applicant has remained free of serious accident and conviction of a serious traffic violation for at least the previous six (6) months prior to application. The use of a cell phone, whether it is talking or texting, is prohibited by law except for an emergency. A driver with an intermediate license shall not operate a motor vehicle with more than one (1) unrelated minor passenger unless accompanied by a licensed driver twenty-one (21) years or older, who is occupying the front seat of a motor vehicle. A driver with an intermediate driver’s license cannot operate a motor vehicle between the hours of 11:00 pm and 4:00 am unless accompanied by a licensed driver twenty-one (21) years of age or older, driving to and from school activity, church activity, job, or an emergency. Class D License- This is a non-restricted license issued to persons eighteen (18) years of age or older. In order to receive a Class D License, the applicant must have a valid Instruction Permit indicating a completion of the knowledge exam, vision and skills test. Upon completion the applicant will return to any Arkansas Revenue Office to receive the Class D License. The applicant for a Class D must be free of serious accident and conviction of a serious traffic violation for at least the previous twelve (12) months prior to application. A Class D driver who is at least eighteen (18) but less than twenty-one (21) years of age may use a hands- free wireless telephone or device for interactive communication while driving. A hand-held wireless telephone can only be used for emergencies. Text messages are not allowed regardless of age. Class M (Motorcycle) License- This license is a non-restricted motorcycle license issued to persons sixteen (16) years of age or older to operate a motorcycle on public roadways. In order to receive a Class M License, the applicant must have a valid Instruction Permit indicating a completion of two knowledge exams: (1) a knowledge exam for a driver license and (2) motorcycle knowledge exam. The applicant must pass a vision test and a motorcycle skills exam. Upon completion the applicant will return to any Arkansas Revenue Office to receive the Class M (Motorcycle) License. Applicants, who possess a valid Class D License, must complete a motorcycle knowledge exam, vision test and a motorcycle skill exam. 4 The motorcycle skill exam can be waived with successful completion of a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Riders Course. The certificate received must be returned to an Arkansas State Police Examiner within ninety (90) days of course completion. All applicants between the ages of sixteen (16) to seventeen (17) must submit an original birth certificate, Department of Finance & Administration Notification Driver’s Attendance Form for Students (school form) or Notice of Intent to Home School and parent or legal guardian to sign the application. The permit will be issued for a year from the date of passed knowledge exam. The permit cannot be extended past one (1) year. Class MD (Motor Driven Cycles) - This license is a restricted license issued to persons between fourteen (14) and sixteen (16) years of age. In order to receive a Class MD License, the applicant must have a valid Instruction Permit indicating a completion of two knowledge exams: (1) a knowledge exam for a driver license (no skills required) and (2) motorcycle knowledge exam. The applicant must pass a vision test and a motorcycle skills exam. Upon completion the applicant will return to any Arkansas Revenue Office to receive the Class MD (Motor Driven) License. The MD License is restricted to operating motorcycles displacing 250-cubic centimeters or less. If the applicant is between fourteen (14) and sixteen (16) years of age, the applicant must present an original birth certificate, Department of Finance & Administration Notification Driver’s Attendance Form for Students (school form) and parent or legal guardian to sign the application. The permit will be issued for 1 (one) year from the date of passed knowledge exam. The permit cannot be extended past one (1) year. The motor driven skill exam can be waived with successful completion of a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Riders Course. The certificate received must be returned to an Arkansas State Police Examiner within ninety (90) days of course completion. Motorized Bicycle (MB) Certificate- This is a restricted certificate issued to persons between the ages of fourteen (14) and sixteen (16) years of age as of July 27, 2011. This certificate will expire on the applicant’s sixteenth (16th) birthday. Motorized Bicycle Certificate restricts the operation of a motorized bicycle or motorcycles displacing fifty (50) centimeters or less. In order to receive a Motorized Bicycle Certificate, the applicant must have a valid Instruction Permit indicating a completion of two knowledge exams: (1) a knowledge exam for a driver license (no skills required) and (2) motorcycle knowledge exam. The applicant must pass a vision test and a motorcycle skills exam. A person possessing a Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Intermediate, Learner’s, Class M or Class MD License can legally operate a motorized bicycle or motorcycle displacing fifty (50) cubic centimeters or less. Vision Requirement Arkansas Code Annotated §27-16-704 (b)(3)(4)(5)(6) requires that every applicant pass a vision test before issuance of a driver's license or instruction permit. A minimum uncorrected visual acuity of 20/40 is required for an unrestricted license, or a minimum corrected visual acuity of 20/70 is required for a restricted license (must wear glasses or contact lenses when driving). Also, your field of vision must be 140º for a person with two (2) functional eyes or 105º for a person with one (1) functional eye. If you are 5 unable to pass the vision test given by the Arkansas State Police for the issuance of your drivers instruction permit, you will be given an eye form to take to an eye care professional. This form must be returned to the Examiner before receiving a permit. If you are required to purchase contacts or glasses, please bring them with you when you return to the testing site. Keeping the Drivers License In order to keep your driver’s license, you must obey Arkansas Laws and drive safely at all times. You can lose your license for:  Being convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  Refusing a request by law enforcement officer to be tested for alcohol or narcotics intoxication.  Leaving the scene of an accident in which you are involved without identifying yourself.  Failing to notify the Department of Finance & Administration of a reportable traffic crash in which you were involved.  Giving false information when you apply for a driver’s license.  Failing to show proof of financial responsibility by failing to settle a financial judgment made against you for damages resulting from a motor vehicle crash.  Attempting to change the information on your license or using another person’s license when attempting to purchase an alcoholic beverage.  Failing to appear for re-examination when requested to do so by the office of Driver Services.  Using a motor vehicle to commit a felony or death caused by a motor vehicle crash.  Accumulating excessive points against your driving record.  Allowing another person to use your driver’s license. Failure to disclose any information about a previous driver license or presenting any false information or altered documents can result in loss of future driving privileges and/or arrest for fraudulent application. Countries Exempt from Testing: The following countries are not required to test: due to a reciprocal agreement with these countries and may be issued an Arkansas Driver’s License. The applicant must be referred to the Department of Finance and Administration for further assistance. Exempt: Manitoba Canada, Germany, France, Taiwan, and South Korea 6 ACCEPTED IDENTIFICATION LIST Applicants Eighteen (18) years or older: All new applicants applying for an Arkansas driver license are required to provide proof of legal presence in the United States as well as proof of identity before testing. The following documents are accepted as proof for 18 years and older:  Two Primary Documents; or  One Primary and One Secondary Accepted Primary Documents  U.S. Birth Certificate (No Foreign Birth Certificates are accepted)  Birth Abroad Certificate  Employment Authorization Card  Foreign Passport (with U.S. Visa and I-94, can be printed online https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home  INS Certificate of Citizenship (N-560, N-561, or N-645)  INS Naturalization Certificate (N-550, N-570, or N-578)  INS Permanent Resident Card (I-551, I-151, AR-3, AR-3A, or AR-103)  U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card  Photo INS Document (No Border Crossing Cards) Accepted Secondary Documents:  Arkansas State ID or Valid Out of State ID  Photo Work/School ID  Vehicle Registration and/or Title  Bureau of Indian Affairs/Indian Treaty Card (no tribal cards)  Marriage Certificate or Marriage License  Health Insurance Card (includes Medicare/Medicaid and AR Kids until age 19)  IRS/State Tax Forms (W-2 Form is not acceptable)  Court order (must be signed and sealed)  Concealed Handgun License  Certified School Transcript  Pilot License  Court Records  Prison Release Document or Sentencing Order  Military Photo ID/Military Dependent Photo ID or Armed Forces Discharge Papers (DD214) Additional documentation may be required if the documentation submitted appears questionable or if the issuing agency has reason to believe the applicant has claimed a false identity. 7  Arkansas State Police Driver’s Testing 1-2-3 Checklist Before written drivers license can begin, applicants under the age of eighteen (18) must have these three (3) items: 1. Original or Certified Copy of a BIRTH CERTIFICATE  No Hospital Birth Certificates or Birth Registration Cards.  No Photocopies or Scanned Documents.  Born in Arkansas and need a copy of your birth certificate? Call (501)-661-2336.  U.S. citizens born out of country must present a “Birth Abroad Certificate”.  Persons with lost certificates may contact birth country’s embassy.  Non-U.S. Citizens must present Passport with U.S. Visa and current I-94, Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Card, Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship.  No photocopies, No foreign birth certificates or translated birth certificates will be accepted.  Out of Country Adoptions- Must present entry document (U.S. Passport or Current Permanent Resident Card, Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship)  For more information and guidance: Contact Customs & Border Protection (501)618-8034  No photocopies or translated documents will be accepted. 2. Signature of Parent or Legal Guardian §27-16-702  Parent must be present with a State Drivers License or State ID. Note: If you have a Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Card or a Foreign Passport Please bring a copy of the application where you applied for the document or any other USCIS document Indicating the parent(s) name in order to sign for the under-aged applicant.  Legal Guardians must be present with State Drivers License or State ID and court documents establishing guardianship.  A step-parent cannot sign without proof of adoption. If the child was adopted by a step parent, please bring the following ID: Adoption Court Documents and a State Drivers License or State ID.  A Financial Responsibility Form may be substituted for the following groups: Job Corps, Youth Challenge, Exchange or Boarding School Students *See an Arkansas State Police Drivers License Examiner before you plan to test. 3. School Attendance or Notice of Intent to Home School Form or GED or High School Diploma (No online diplomas accepted). §27-16-701(1)(A)(i)(a)  School Attendance Forms- (No report cards or transcripts will be accepted)- contact your school counselor or principal.  School attendance forms should be signed, sealed and dated.  This form is valid through the current semester. If a knowledge exam is not passed by the end of the current semester the student will be required to submit a new school form after January 10th or June 10th, when new semester grades are calculated.  School forms dated after June 10th will be valid though the summer.  Notice of Intent to Home School- contact your School Superintendent  Notice of Intent to Home School forms must be issued for the current school year. The forms will be valid from August of the current year through August of the following year. Example: Issued August of 2014 Valid until August 2015  Notice of Intent to Home School forms must be notarized. Important Information: If you wear contacts or glasses, please bring them with you to test! 8 BEFORE YOU DRIVE Before you drive take time to assess your trip, especially if driving in hazardous weather. If traveling Arkansas roadways you can contact the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department for current road conditions. Contact toll free (800)245-1672 or Local (501)569-2374 for the latest recorded information on weather-related road conditions. Inspecting Your Vehicle Take a moment before you drive to check the safety of your vehicle. A vehicle in poor operating condition is unsafe and could cause you to become disabled along the roadside or even cause an accident. Vehicles in sub-standard operating condition may not respond well to a driver’s reaction in an emergency situation or collision. A vehicle in good operating condition will always provide a greater margin for safe driving. Follow these safety tips for inspecting your vehicle.  Vehicle Seats Since the risk zone for driver air bags is the first 2-3 inches of inflation, placing yourself 10 inches from your driver air bag provides you with a clear margin of safety. This distance is measured from the center of the steering wheel to your breastbone. If you now sit less than 10 inches away, you can change your driving position in several ways:  Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the pedals comfortably.  Slightly recline the back of the seat. Although vehicle designs vary, many drivers can achieve the 10-inch distance, even with the driver seat all the way forward, simply by reclining the back of the seat somewhat. If reclining the back of your seat makes it hard to see the road, raise yourself by using a firm, non-slippery cushion, or raise the seat if your vehicle has that feature.  If your steering wheel is adjustable, tilt it downward. This points the air bag toward your chest instead of your head and neck. 9 Correct Belted and 10 inches or more away Use of seat belt Move seat rearward Recline Seat Back Tilt wheel down Incorrect Improper Use of a Seat Belt 10   Vehicle Mirrors Good visual search habits require proper positioning and use of mirrors located inside and outside a vehicle. Mirrors should be properly adjusted to detect objects and not for determining the position of other vehicles. Adjust your rear view and side mirrors before you start driving. Using the settings below, you can see what is directly behind your vehicle with the inside mirror, and you can see directly into spaces adjacent to each of the vehicle’s rear corners by using the side mirrors. 1) Inside mirror  Adjust the inside mirror so you can see the entire rear window from the driver's seat. You should have to move only your eyes, not your head, when using this mirror.  Drivers 6 feet tall or taller may find it helpful to reposition the mirror upside down, if possible. This usually raises the bottom edge of the mirror about 1 to 2 inches and can substantially reduce a major blind area to the front for tall drivers. 2) Side-view mirrors  To adjust the driver's side-view mirror, place your head against the left side window and set the mirror so you can just barely see the side of the car in the mirror's right side.  To adjust the passenger's side-view mirror, position your head so that it is just above the center console. Set the mirror so you can just barely see the side of the car in the left side of the mirror. If the vehicle is not equipped with moveable mirror-adjustment controls, you may need assistance when properly positioning this mirror. Any missing or damaged mirror(s), which obstructs your view, should be replaced. Drivers should remember objects may appear closer than the view in the mirror and mirrors do not display objects in blind spots. To properly check your blind spots, one should glance over the shoulder in the direction in which the vehicle is moving.  Braking System Only manufactured brakes can properly stop a vehicle. Your brakes should be in good working condition. If you suspect brake problems, you should take your vehicle to a licensed mechanic for an inspection. There are certain indicators to help alert you of a potential brake issue. 1) A noise from underneath the vehicle when the brake pedal is depressed. 2) Foul smell during heavy braking 3) Depressing the brake pedal with little or any breaking action.  Lights Inspect turn signals, brake lights, tail lights and headlights for good operating condition. To check your vehicle lights, turn them on from inside your vehicle, step outside the vehicle and look for any non working lights. When inspecting your brake lights, you will need a partner to depress the brake while you inspect the rear of your vehicle for red lights on each side. 11  Windshield and Wipers The windshield of your car ensures your safety while driving, but it is also prone to chips and cracks. Damaged glass can break more easily in a minor collision or when an object hits the windshield. You should replace or repair damaged windshields as soon as possible. Wiper blades should be replaced every six (6) months to a year or as soon as you notice a difference in driving visibility. When wiper blades no longer make proper contact with the windshield surface, they can begin to squeak, chatter, skip, smear or streak reducing driving visibility. Use the guide below to help determine if your windshield is safe. Rule: Inspect for and reject if: 1. Glass in the windshield, side or rear window areas is damaged to the extent that the driver’s view to the front left, right or rear of the vehicle is obscured. 2. Not equipped with safety glass in all doors, windows and windshields after July 1, 1951. 3. More than one crack or other visual impairment present in an eight (8) inch wide area running horizontally through the center of the windshield that falls under the wiper area on the driver’s side. (See Diagram). Exception to this rule: Vehicle identification stickers such as used by military brass, hospitals, factories and schools may be displayed in the lower portion of the windshield so long as it does not obscure vision. 12  Tires Tire safety depends on maintaining proper tire pressure, observing tire and vehicle load limits (not carrying more weight in your vehicle than your tires or vehicle can safely handle), avoiding road hazards, and inspecting tires for cuts, slashes, and other irregularities. These are the most important things you can do to avoid tire failure, such as tread separation or blowout and flat tires. These actions, along with other care and maintenance activities, can also:  Improve vehicle handling  Help protect you and others from avoidable breakdowns and accidents  Improve fuel economy  Increase the life of your tires Properly maintained tires improve the steering, stopping, traction, and load-carrying capability of your vehicle. Underinflated tires and overloaded vehicles are a major cause of tire failure. In order to avoid flat tires and other types of tire failure, you should maintain proper tire pressure, observe tire and vehicle load limits, avoid road hazards, and regularly inspect your tires. The recommended tire inflation pressure that vehicle manufacturers provide reflects the proper psi when a tire is cold. The term cold does not relate to the outside temperature. Rather, a cold tire is one that has not been driven on for at least three hours. When you drive, your tires get warmer, causing the air pressure within them to increase. Therefore, to get an accurate tire pressure reading, you must measure tire pressure when the tires are cold or compensate for the extra pressure in warm tires. The tire tread provides gripping action and traction that prevent your vehicle from slipping or sliding, especially when the road is wet or icy. In general, tires are not safe and should be replaced when the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch. Tires have built-in tread wear indicators that let you know when it is time to replace your tires. These indicators are raised sections spaced intermittently in the bottom of the tread grooves. When they appear "even" with the outside of the tread, it is time to replace your tires. Another method for checking tread depth is to place a penny in the tread with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, you are ready for new tires.  Steering System If the steering system is not working properly it may be difficult to control the direction of the vehicle. Any steering system that does not move when the steering wheel is first turned may need to be checked by a mechanic.  Suspension System The suspension system aids in controlling the vehicle and allows for a more comfortable ride over road surfaces. Use these tips for determining a bad suspension system. 1. Car rides roughly- shocks or struts are wearing out when they begin to feel every bump in the road, or when every bump causes the vehicle to “bounce”. 13  2. Drifting or pulling during turns- when your suspension system is failing you will feel the vehicle “drift” or “pull” when you are turning. 3. Dips or “nose dives” when stopping- When the shocks are worn out, you are likely to feel the vehicle body lurching forward and downward nose-first when you apply the brakes firmly. This can affect your ability to stop the car quickly (a bad suspension can increase stop time by up to 20 percent). 4. Uneven tire treads-Take a look at your tires. If you notice the tread is wearing down unevenly on your tires, or if you notice balding spots, this is often a symptom that the suspension isn't holding the car evenly, and therefore putting uneven amounts of pressure on the tires 5. Damaged, “oily” shocks- If shocks or struts look greasy or oily, they could be leaking fluid; therefore they aren’t working properly. 6. The “bounce test”- With the car in “park”, press down on the front of the vehicle with all your weight, “bounce” it a few times, then release. Repeat at the rear of the vehicle. If the car continues to rock or bounce more than 2-3 times after you release it, the suspension is wearing out.  Exhaust System The exhaust system removes toxic gases from the engine and aids in the reduction of noise from the engine and helps cool the hot gases from the running engine. Fumes from a leaky exhaust can cause death in a very short time. Never allow the engine to idle in your garage or enclosed area without an open window. During the winter it is a good idea to occasionally open a window and allow fresh air to fill the cabin of the vehicle which will reduce any risk of toxic exhaust fumes filtering into the moving vehicle.  Engine An engine not properly maintained may lose power needed for routine driving or in a worst case scenario, when the driver needs power to avoid an imminent crash or emergency. Poorly maintained engines also tend to start less easily, offer less than acceptable fuel economy and pollute the environment. Always follow the prescribed procedures for routine maintenance found in the vehicle owner/operator handbook.  Loose Objects Make sure that there are no packages or other objects on the rear shelf or back seat that could strike you or a passenger on the head in the event of a sudden stop or crash. Make sure there are no objects on the floor that could roll under the brake pedal preventing the brake from operating at its maximum effectiveness.  Horn The horn is an important safety device that warns other drivers and could save your life. Your horn should always be in working condition. 14 KEEPING YOUR FIELD OF VISION CLEAN AND CLEAR It is important that the driver’s view, through all windows of the vehicle, remains free from objects and there is a clear field of vision for the driver to see the rearview mirror and both side view mirrors. Likewise, your headlights and warning lights should also be clear of dirt and debris. Here are a few tips for maintaining a clean and clear view: 1. Keep the windshield clean. Bright sun or headlights on a dirty windshield make it difficult to see. Carry Liquid cleaner and a paper or cloth towel to clean your windshield when necessary. 2. Keep your window washer bottle full. Use antifreeze wash when the temperature may fall below freezing. 3. The inside surface of the window should not be overlooked. Keep the inside window surfaces clean, especially if anyone has been smoking in the vehicle. Smoking causes a film to build up on the interior glass. 4. Never try to drive with snow, ice, or frost on the exterior windows. Clear the front, side, and back windows before you drive. 5. Do not hang items from your mirror or clutter-up the view through the windshield with decals. These items could block a portion of your view. 6. Keep the headlights, backup lights, brake lights, and taillights clean. Dirt on the lenses can cut the effectiveness of the lights by as much as 50 percent. ROUTINE SAFETY CHECK BEFORE DRIVING Outside the Vehicle  Check around the vehicle for obstacles that might interfere with its safe movement.  Check the driveway, parking area or street for children or other pedestrians. Several hundred children are killed annually by vehicles backing up.  Inspect the headlights, windshield, side and rear windows, turn signals, brake lights and taillights. If necessary, clean and replace items that are broken or not working properly.  Visually inspect your tires for obvious signs of a problem and notice which direction the front wheels are pointed. Check tire pressures at least once each month, because visual inspection alone may not reveal an improperly inflated tire.  Check under the vehicle for fluid leaks. Inside the Vehicle  Look inside the vehicle before entering, especially the back seat, to improve your safety and protect yourself against carjacking. 15 ARKANSAS SEAT BELT LAW Beginning June 30, 2009, Arkansas’ seat belt law changed to permit a law enforcement traffic stop based on the primary violation of a motor vehicle driver or front-seat passenger who is not buckled-up. Arkansas law makes it illegal to drive, or to be a front-seat passenger, without wearing safety belts. Buckling up does not cost anything, and it only takes three seconds so it’s definitely worth the time it takes. Lives of Arkansans are saved each year because they wear their seat belts. Child Passenger Protection Act 27-34-104  A child who is less than six (6) years of age and who weighs less than sixty (60) pounds shall be restrained in a child passenger safety seat properly secured to the vehicle.  All children under the age of fifteen (15) must wear appropriate safety restraints while the vehicle is in motion  A number of organizations will loan you a child safety seat if you are unable to afford one. Statute: §27-37-702 (a) Each driver and front seat passenger in any motor vehicle operated on a street or highway in this state shall wear a properly adjusted and fastened seat belt properly secured to the vehicle. Any person who violates this law shall be subject to a fine not to exceed twenty-five dollars ($25.00), and any court costs or fees. Protection from Secondhand Smoke for Children Act §20-27-1903- Tobacco use A person shall not knowingly smoke tobacco in any motor vehicle in which a child who is less than fourteen (14) years of age is a passenger. 16 USE OF SAFETY BELTS AND CHILD RESTRAINTS Before you drive away, always fasten your seat belt and make sure all your passengers are using seat belts or child restraints. Also, remember to lock the vehicle's doors and turn on the childproof locks if children are in the vehicle. Studies have shown that if you are in a crash while using seat belts, your chances of being hurt or killed are greatly reduced. Seat belts will move with you and lock up if a crash occurs. They keep you from being thrown from the vehicle or against parts inside of your vehicle. In addition to protecting you from injury as a driver, seat belts help you keep control of the vehicle. If you are struck from the side or make a quick turn, the force could push you sideways and therefore you cannot steer the vehicle if you are not behind the wheel. In Arkansas, it is illegal to drive, or to be a front-seat passenger, without wearing seat belts. Wear a seat belt all the time, not just on long trips or high-speed highways. More than half of the crashes that cause injury or death happen at speeds less than 40 mph and within 25 miles from home. It is important to wear the seat belt correctly. A shoulder harness is worn across the shoulder and chest with minimal, if any slack. The shoulder harness should not be worn under the arm or behind the back. Wearing the harness the wrong way could cause serious internal injuries in a crash. The lap belt should be adjusted so that it is snug and lies low across your hips after fastening. If you have an automatic shoulder belt, be sure to buckle your lap belt as well. Otherwise, in a collision you could slide out of the belt and be hurt or killed. You should be seated upright with your back against the seat and feet on the floor. Improper seating positions, such as slouching or resting one’s feet on the dashboard can result in reduced effectiveness of the vehicle’s restraint system and possibly result in injury. Seat belts should be worn even if the vehicle is equipped with air bags. While air bags are good protection against hitting the steering wheel, dashboard or windshield, they do not protect you if you are hit from the side or rear or if the vehicle rolls over. In addition, an air bag will not keep you behind the wheel in these situations. 17 ARKANSAS LAW ON LITTERING Arkansas is “The Natural State” and litter is unnatural. More than just an ugly, offensive nuisance that detracts from Arkansas’ scenic beauty; roadside litter is dangerous to motorists and negatively impacts the environmental quality. Litter is also expensive to control. Motorists must accept personal responsibility for keeping their waste items from littering Arkansas roadways. Please demonstrate pride while using your driving privilege. Don’t permit thoughtless or careless actions to litter our state’s roadways. Littering is also a violation of the law. Upon conviction, first offenders are subject to a fine of up to $1,000 and not more than eight hours of community service. Subsequent convictions can result in fines up to $2,000 and twenty-four hours of community service. UNATTENDED CHILDREN AND PETS Never leave children and pets unattended in a vehicle. Though we may think prior air-conditioning will help to keep the car cool after exiting, you should know that within five minutes on a 90-degree day, the temperature within a vehicle reaches that of the outdoors, and for every nine (9) minutes the interior temperature increases fifteen (15) degrees. Heat enters the vehicle through windows, causing objects within the car to heat up and trap the heat inside. Vehicle Temperature Outside Temp (F) Inside Temp (F) 10 minutes 30 minutes 70° 89° 104° 75° 94° 109° 80° 99° 114° 85° 104° 119° 90° 109° 124° 95° 114° 129° 18 ARKANSAS RULES AND REGULATIONS There are traffic laws, rules and regulations that dictate where, when, and how fast you can drive and each is designed to help keep traffic moving safely. Rules of the road include traffic controls, lane controls, right-of-way laws, and parking rules. The Arkansas driver’s manual provides valuable information on safety, rules of the road and Arkansas traffic laws. CONSTRUCTION/MAINTENANCE SAFETY ZONE Highway work zones are established according to the type of work underway along the roadway. Signs in work areas are typically diamond shaped, orange, displaying black letters or symbols, and serve as a warning that people are working on or near the highway. In addition to warning signs, police officers, flaggers, roadway markings, and traffic control devices are used to direct safely through work zones and protect highway workers. Through many work zones, the speed limits may be reduced and lane usage could be restricted for safety purposes. Any reduced speed will be clearly posted within the work zone. If there are no reduced speed limits posted, drivers should obey the normal posted speed limit. Remember to be prepared for the unexpected when traveling through work zones. In Arkansas, fines for all moving traffic violations occurring in a highway work zone are doubled if workers are present and warning signs are present in advance of the work zone. 19 Work Zone Signs- These signs are typically diamond shaped, orange with black letters or symbols. A work zone sign warns a driver that workers may be along side or on the roadway. These warnings include reduce speed, detours, slow moving construction equipment, and poor or suddenly changing road surfaces. In work areas, traffic may be controlled by a person with a sign or flag, known as a flagger. Example of Work Zone Signs: 20 TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS, SIGNS AND PAVEMENT MARKINGS Traffic controls include traffic signals, traffic signs, and pavement markings. Other traffic controls could be law enforcement, highway personnel, or school crossing guards. Any traffic control must be obeyed when driving. Lighted Traffic Signals Traffic lights have three different color lenses (red, yellow and green), a driver may approach an intersection with any one of these colors. A traffic light is a road signal for directing vehicular traffic. The lights inform the driver when to stop, where to stop and when to proceed. A red light means the driver must stop. The driver cannot proceed until the light turns green and it is safe to go. A green light allows you to proceed through an intersection if there is no opposing traffic. If a driver is stopped at a controlled intersection on a green light, the driver must allow opposing traffic already in the intersection to clear before proceeding. 1. A yellow light means caution. A steady yellow light means the traffic signal is changing from green to red. You must stop if it is safe to do so. If you are already stopped at an intersection or a stop line, you may not proceed. 21 Flashing Lights A flashing red light is the same as a stop sign. A driver must come to a complete stop, and then proceed only when it is safe. If you are approaching a flashing yellow light you should slow down and proceed with caution. Lighted Arrows There are four (4) types of lighted arrows used to control traffic. A steady red arrow means stop. Drivers turning left must stop. A red arrow on a traffic lights means you may not turn in the direction of the arrow. A steady yellow arrow means the signal is getting ready to turn red. Drivers turning left should stop if it is safe to do so. A flashing yellow arrow means left-turns are permitted. Drivers may turn left but must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, then proceed with caution. A light green arrow on a traffic light means, you may turn in the direction of the arrow. Left turns are protected. Drivers may turn in the direction of the arrow. Opposing traffic must stop. If you are in a turn lane and there is a traffic arrow for your lane on the traffic light, you should make your turn after the green arrow has appeared and it is safe to do so. 22 RIGHT ON RED RULE Drivers must follow the rules before turning right on red. When approaching an intersection with a red light and the driver intends to turn right, a complete stop and a check for opposing traffic must be made before turning right. Drivers must always look for pedestrians in or about the crosswalks. You should never block or stop your vehicle within a crosswalk. The driver may turn right on red unless there is a sign prohibiting a right turn on red. One Way Traffic Light Rule In Fig. A the driver is on a one way street, turning from the left lane onto another one way street. The driver will enter the left lane, which is the lane closest to driver. Fig. A Unless a traffic sign is posted to prohibit turns in a particular direction, a driver may turn on a red light or red arrow, when turning left from a one-way street onto another one-way street. The driver must come to a complete stop, yield to any opposing traffic within the intersection and enter the lane closest to where you plan to turn. Arkansas law requires drivers to yield to emergency vehicles. Law enforcement, fire, or ambulance vehicles, with emergency lights flashing, will have the right of way at intersections and you must yield. 23 TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNS Stop Signs Traffic signs display traffic rules, hazards, location, travel directions, and where services are located. The shape and color of these signs will determine the type of information that will be placed on the sign. A stop sign is red with white letters and has eight (8) sides or octagon shaped. A stop sign means a driver must come to a complete stop. The driver must wait until crossing vehicles and pedestrians have cleared the intersection. Streets or roadways may have a painted line next to a stop sign, at intersections, indicating where the vehicle must stop. If you are approaching a stop sign and obstacles are blocking your view, you should make a complete stop and pull forward to see. You may proceed when safe to do so. Speed Limit Signs A speed limit indicates the minimum and maximum speed allowed for a particular section of highway or street. The maximum speed should be used in ideal conditions and reduced as conditions arise such as slippery roads or poor visibility. Some highways have sections of minimum speed limits; therefore speed should be reduced to follow the appropriate posted limit. If the minimum speed is too fast for a driver, an alternate route should be taken to avoid impeding traffic. Do Not Enter Signs The do not enter sign is typically a red circle with a line running across or diagonal line through it, meaning something is not allowed. 24 Yield Sign A yield sign is a red and white or yellow and black that is triangular shaped displaying the word “YIELD” or “YIELD RIGHT of WAY. The yield sign means the driver must slow down or yield the right of way to traffic in the intersection, where the driver may be crossing or entering. When approaching a yield sign you must yield to other vehicles and stop when necessary. A driver who fails to yield could receive a fine up to $1000 and suspension of their driver license for 180 days. Slow Moving Vehicle Sign A reflective orange triangle bordered with red warns other road users that the vehicle is traveling slower than the normal speed of traffic. Service Signs Service signs are blue with white letters and can be square or rectangular shaped. Service signs provide the driver with information of places to stop for fuel. Route Signs County Sign Highway Sign Interstate Sign The shape of the route sign indicates the type of roadway Interstate, U.S. Highway or County. When planning a trip these signs will show you the different roadways, in which you may travel. 25 Destination Signs Destination signs can be green or brown, square or rectangle shaped with white letters. These signs indicate directions and distance to various locations such as cities, airports, state borders, or to special areas such as national parks, historical sites, or museums. RAILROAD CROSSING SIGNS Railroad crossing warning signs are used to warn drivers of the possibility of a train. Drivers should obey all railroad crossing warning signs and never go around barriers or disregard the warning sign. Drivers should never attempt to beat an oncoming train or attempt to cross the tracks without enough room on the opposite side of tracks. If your vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, it is wise not to shift gears when crossing the tracks to avoid the possibility of an engine stall. Common railroad crossing warning signs are illustrated below. Round Yellow Advance Warning Sign The round black-on-yellow warning sign is placed ahead of a public highway-rail intersection. The Advance Warning sign tells you to slow down, look and listen for the train, and be prepared to stop at the tracks if a train is coming. Pavement Markings Pavement markings mean the same as the Advance Warning sign. They consist of an “X” with the letters “RR” and a no-passing marking on two-lane roads. There is also a NO PASSING ZONE sign on two-lane roads. There may be a white Stop Line painted on the pavement before the railroad tracks. School buses are required to stop at all railroad crossings. 26 Cross Buck Sign This is a white “X” shaped sign with black letters. This sign marks the grade crossing and requires you to yield the right-of-way to the train. Gates and Lights NEVER attempt to go around crossing gates. At some crossings, along with a cross buck sign, a driver will see parallel red lights that flash alternately. When the red lights are flashing, a train is present. Even if the red lights continue to flash and no train appears, do not cross. As red lights begin to flash the gates will lower which means a train is approaching. When the gates are down, it means a train is present and the road is closed. It is unsafe and illegal to cross. If the gates begin to come down as you begin to cross, keep going even if it means you will break the gate. If you are approaching a railroad crossing and there is no safety barrier you should cross the tracks after checking both directions. Emergency Notification Systems (ENS) at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings The purpose of the ENS sign is to provide the public with critical emergency contact information at every highway- rail grade crossing. The information contained on the ENS sign enables the public to reach the railroad responsible for the crossing and to identify the specific crossing in the event of an emergency. 27 Railroad (Exempt) Signs There are two (2) kinds of EXEMPT signs:  A sign (below the cross buck) with white background and black letters that says EXEMPT.  A sign (below the advanced warning sign) with yellow background and black letters that says EXEMPT. An EXEMPT sign means that the crossing has been abandoned or its use discontinued. Follow your local procedure about stopping. School Bus and Railroad Crossings School buses are required to stop at all railroad crossings. 28 Multiple Tracks There are warning signs that indicate sets of tracks or indicates the number of tracks. These signs warn a driver there is more than one track and there may be more than one train crossing. When there is more than one set of tracks at a crossing, there is a sign beneath the cross buck with a number indicating how many tracks are present. Watch for additional trains coming from either direction. When crossing more than one set of railroad tracks you should cross only when the train is well down the tracks. Safety Tips:  Never park or stop on railroad tracks.  When approaching a railroad crossing, look up and down the track to make sure a train is not approaching.  Always expect a train. Never assume a train is not coming even if you haven’t seen one at a particular crossing.  Never underestimate the speed and distance of a train.  Obey all crossing signals.  NEVER TRY AND BEAT A TRAIN! 29  ROADWAY SIGNS Warning Signs- These signs are yellow with black lettering or symbols and most are diamond shaped. These signs warn a driver to slow down and be prepared to stop, if necessary, or provide information about a special situation or a hazard that may be along the road ahead. The most common warning signs are shown below. Intersection Traffic Signal Merging Traffic Two-Way Traffic Lane Ends School Zone Divided Highway School Zone Pedestrian Crossing Pedestrian Crossing School Crossing School Crossing Slippery When Wet Bridge Clearance Incline or Hill 30 Regulation Signs There are signs on a white square or rectangle with black and/or red letters or symbols. These signs provide information on rules of traffic direction, lane usage, turning, parking, and other special instructions. Some of the signs have a red circle with a red slash over the symbol. These regulation sign indicates a driver is prohibited from executing a particular maneuver such as a turn toward a particular direction or no u-turn. Example of regulation signs: Lane Control Signs- These signs indicate where a driver can go and where a driver can turn. Lane Control signs often use an arrow as a symbol. They can be found along the road or positioned over the roadway or painted onto the roadway. Passing Signs- These signs mark the beginning and ending of a passing zone. These signs tell a driver where it is safe to pass another vehicle and where a driver cannot pass. Drivers should only pass when it’s safe. 31 LANES OF TRAFFIC Pavement Markings- Lines and symbols marked on the roadway divide lanes, indicate to a driver when it is safe to pass other vehicles or change lane(s), which lane(s) to use for turns, where a driver must stop for signs or traffic signals, and define pedestrian walkways.  Fog Line and Lane Lines- A solid white line along the side of the roadway that tells the driver where the outer edge is located. White Lane Markings- A dashed white line between lanes of traffic indicates a driver may cross the line to change lanes, when safe. These lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. White Lane Markings- A solid white line between lanes of traffic indicates a driver cannot cross the line to change lanes. Driver must stay within the lane. Crosswalks and Stop Lines Crosswalks- mark the area where pedestrians can cross the roadway. A driver must yield to pedestrians in or about to enter a crosswalk. Not all crosswalks are marked. Drivers should watch for pedestrians when crossing intersections that do not have marked crosswalks. Pedestrians carrying a white cane or using a guide dog must be given absolute right of way. Stop Line- When approaching a stop sign you must stop your vehicle at the stop line if one is present. Make a complete stop before the vehicle reaches the line. 32  A solid double yellow line separates lanes of Yellow Lane Markings traffic moving in opposite directions. The double yellow line in center of the roadway means passing is prohibited for vehicles traveling in either direction. A driver may cross a solid yellow line to turn into a driveway if there is no opposing traffic approaching the planned turn site. A broken yellow line between opposing lanes of traffic indicate a driver may cross to pass if there is no opposing traffic. A solid line with a broken yellow line between opposing lanes, a driver may pass if there is no opposing traffic. Shared Center Lane- A shared turn lane is marked on each side by a solid yellow line and yellow dashed lines. In Arkansas it is permissible for a vehicle making a left turn from an intersecting street or driveway to utilize a center turn lane as part of the maneuver to gain access or merge into traffic lanes, except it is not permissible to use the center left turn lane as an acceleration lane. Example: Shared center lanes are reserved for making left turns and can be used by vehicles traveling in either direction. The example will show markings on the pavement, left turn arrows for traffic in one direction and alternate arrows for traffic approaching from the opposing direction. 33 Unmarked Lanes- When there are no signs or markings to control the use of lanes, there are rules that indicate which lane is to be used. These rules cover general driving, passing, and turning. General Driving  Never back a vehicle in any travel lane, it is illegal and unsafe. If you miss your turn or exit, do not back up; proceed to a safe turn around area.  Never stop in travel lanes for any reason (e.g. confusion, breakdown, passenger drop off, etc.). Keep moving until you can safely pull off the road.  On a road with three or more lanes traveling in the same direction remain in the right lane except to pass. If there is a lot of merging traffic, then use the center travel lane.  Never drive on the shoulder of any street or road, unless directed by a police officer. Passing- On multi-lane roads, the left-most lane is intended to be used to pass slower vehicles. Never pass on the shoulder, whether it is paved or not. Other drivers will never expect you to be there and may pull off the road without looking. Vehicle merges from the right lane into the left lane, to pass slower traffic. Turning- When there are no signs or lane markings to control turning, a driver should turn into the lane closest to the direction of travel. 34   Right Turns- When turning avoid crossing over into the opposite lane of traffic. A wide turn may cause the driver behind you to think you are changing lanes or going to turn left and may try to pass you on the right.  Left Turns- When turning left, avoid cutting the corners. Turning sharp could cause you to hit a vehicle approaching from the left. Always leave room for oncoming vehicles to turn left in front of you. Multiple Lanes- On multi-lane highways, when a driving beside another vehicle, you should move ahead of the vehicle next to you or drop behind the vehicle next to you. If you are being followed to closely on a multi-lane roadway, you should move into the lane to your right when clear. When passing vehicles on multi-lane roads, the far left lane is intended for passing slower vehicles. 35 RIGHT OF WAY When there are no signs or signals to regulate traffic and pedestrians may be present, there are rules in which a vehicle must yield the right-of-way. The rules will determine which vehicle goes first and which vehicle must wait. Traffic laws determine which vehicle must yield the right-of-way and does not give a vehicle absolute right-of way. As a driver, you must do everything possible to prevent striking a pedestrian or another vehicle, regardless of the circumstance. Intersections- Right of Way Pedestrians:  Drivers must yield where necessary to avoid striking pedestrians who are legally crossing the road.  Drivers crossing a sidewalk when entering or exiting a driveway, alley, or parking lot must yield to pedestrians. It is illegal to drive on a sidewalk except to cross it.  Pedestrians using a guide dog or carrying a white cane have absolute right-of