dm drivers handbook

8/3/2019 DM Drivers Handbook

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Arnold Schwarzenegger, GovernorState of CaliforniaSunne Wright McPeak, SecretaryBusiness, Transportation and Housing AgencyJoan Borucki, Director

Department of Motor Vehicles

California

20052005

CaliforniaDrivers HandbookDrivers Handbook


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My Fellow Californians:

This year, we have made great strides in streamlining

the Department of Motor Vehicles and making it

more responsive to your needs.

On my first day as Governor, I signed Executive

Order Number One, repealing the 300 percent

increase in the car tax. DMV implemented the

rollback in just seven days instead of the projected

three months. In addition, DMV abolished the credit

card service fee, making it easier and cheaper for you

to handle DMV transactions with the click of a

mouse from the comfort of your home.

Californians can now use the Internet to renew drivers licenses and vehicleregistrations. DMVs automated telephone system allows you to process your

registration or schedule an appointment, and wait times in local field offices and

telephone busy signals have been reduced. More exciting changes are planned for

the months ahead.

Please continue to drive responsibly and wear your lap and shoulder belts, make

sure your passengers do the same, and dont take drugs or drink alcohol before you

drive. It is critical that each of us drive sensibly and defensively. This booklet willget you startedthe rest is up to you. Thanks for helping to make California an

even betterand saferplace to raise our families.

Sincerely,

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Governors Message

California Driver Handbook


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VEHICLE REGISTRATIONREQUIREMENTS .................... viii

GENERAL INFORMATION .............. 1DISCLAIMER ....................................1WHO MUST HAVEA LICENSE .............1

California residents ..................... 1California military personnel ........ 1Nonresident military personnel ... 1New residents ............................. 1Adults visiting California .............. 2Minors visiting California ............. 2

THE CALIFORNIA DRIVERLICENSE....................................2

ACCURATE IDENTIFICATION .................2BASIC INFORMATION .........................2DUPLICATE LICENSES ........................2ADDRESS CHANGES .........................3NAME CHANGES ..............................3LICENSE RENEWALS .........................3

LICENSE CLASSES .......................4OBTAINING A DRIVER LICENSE .... 6

ACCEPTABLE DOCUMENTS ..................6APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FORALL

DRIVERS ....................................7MINORS PERMIT REQUIREMENTS ........7MINORS PERMIT RESTRICTIONS .........8MINORS LICENSE REQUIREMENTS ......8EXCEPTIONSMINORS LICENSE

RESTRICTIONS .............................9ADULTS PERMIT REQUIREMENTS ........9ADULTS LICENSE REQUIREMENTS .... 10

THE EXAMINATION PROCESS ... 10

WHERE TO TAKE THE TESTS .......... 10DMV WANTS YOU TO PASS .......... 10DMVS EXAMINATIONS ................... 11THE DRIVING TEST ....................... 12

MISCELLANEOUS LICENSINGINFORMATION........................ 13LICENSE REFUSAL ........................ 13LIMITED TERM LICENSES ................ 13LICENSE EXTENSION ..................... 13LICENSE IN YOUR POSSESSION ........ 13UNLICENSED DRIVERS ................... 14RENEWAL BY MAILOR INTERNET ...... 14MEDICAL INFORMATION CARD .......... 14ORGAN DONATION ........................ 14

LAWS/RULES OF THE ROAD ..... 15RIGHT OF WAY RULES .................. 15

General information ................... 15Pedestrians ................................ 15Crosswalks ................................ 15

TTTTTAAAAABBBBBLE OLE OLE OLE OLE OF CF CF CF CF COOOOONNNNNTETETETETENNNNNTSTSTSTSTS

Intersections .............................. 16Roundabouts .............................. 16On mountain roads .................... 17

TRAFFIC SIGNAL LIGHTS ................ 17PEDESTRIAN SIGNAL LIGHTS ........... 18TRAFFIC SIGNS ............................ 18SPEED LIMITS .............................. 19MAXIMUM SPEED LIMIT .................. 20REDUCED SPEEDS ........................ 20

Heavy traffic or bad weather ... 20Towing vehicles, buses, or large

trucks ...................................... 20Around children ......................... 20

Blind intersections ..................... 21Alleys ......................................... 21Near railroad tracks ................... 21Near light rail vehicle crossings. 22Near streetcars, trolleys,

or buses .................................. 22Business or residence districts. 22Near animals .............................. 22

TRAFFIC LANES .......................... 23Line colors ................................. 23

Choosing a lane ......................... 23Changing lanes .......................... 24Bicycle lanes .............................. 24Passing lanes ............................. 24Carpool lanes and onramps ...... 25Center left turn lanes ................. 25Turnout areas and lanes ........... 26End-of-lane markings ................ 26

TURNS ........................................ 26Examples of right and left turns. 27

Legal U-turns ............................. 28Illegal U-turns ............................. 28

PARKING .................................... 29Parking on a hill .......................... 29Parking at colored curbs ........... 29Illegal parking ............................. 30

Special parking rules ................. 31

SIGNALING ................................. 31ADDITIONAL DRIVING RULES .... 32SAFE DRIVING PRACTICES........ 34

SCANNING .................................. 34Know what is ahead ................. 34Know what is at your side ....... 35Know what is behind you ......... 36Clean windows and mirrors ..... 37Adjust seat and mirrors ............. 37How well can you stop? ........... 37Driving in the fog ........................ 37Driving in darkness .................... 40


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Driving in a heavy rain orsnowstorm .............................. 40

Driving in hill country ................. 41

HORN, HEADLIGHTS, AND EMERGENCYSIGNALS ...................................41Use your horn ............................ 41

Dont use your horn ................... 41Use your headlights .................. 41Use your emergency signals .... 41

FOLLOWING DISTANCES ...................42Taking dangers one at a time .... 42Splitting the difference .............. 42Allow a cushion for problem

drivers ..................................... 42

MERGING IN AND OUT OF TRAFFIC ...43Space to merge .......................... 43

Space to cross or enter ............ 44Space to exit .............................. 44

PASSING OTHER TRAFFIC ................44Space to pass ............................ 44Space to return .......................... 45

SEAT BELTS .................................45

SEAT BELT MYTHS ..........................45CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM AND SAFETY

SEATS ......................................46RIDING SAFELY WITHAIR BAGS ........47

UNATTENDED CHILDREN INMOTOR VEHICLES .......................47

SHARING THE ROAD WITH OTHER

VEHICLES................................48

LARGE TRUCKS AND RVS ...............48Braking ....................................... 48Turning ....................................... 48Truckers blind spotsthe NO

zone ......................................... 48

Maneuverability .......................... 48BUSES, STREETCARS, AND TROLLEYS 49LIGHT RAIL VEHICLES .....................50EMERGENCY VEHICLES ....................50SLOWMOVING VEHICLES .................51ANIMAL-DRAWN VEHICLES ................51MOTORCYCLES...............................51BICYCLES .....................................52PEDESTRIANS WHOARE BLIND .........53ROAD WORKERS ...........................54

VEHICLES WITH HAZARDOUS LOADS ..54MOBILITY AND GRIDLOCK..........55

DEALING WITH TRAFFIC CONGESTION 55DEALING WITH ROAD RAGE ............55DEALING WITH TECHNOLOGY ............55ACCIDENTAVOIDANCE .....................55

Keep your car visible ................ 55What is the road like .................. 56

Curves ........................................ 56Water on the road ...................... 56Slippery roads ............................ 56Driving in heavy traffic .............. 57Traffic speeds ........................... 57

HANDLING EMERGENCIES ................57

Skids on slippery surfaces ....... 57Acceleration skids ..................... 58Locked wheel skids .................. 58Steering wheel locking device .. 58Causes of accidents. ................ 58

ACCIDENTS ...................................58Involved in an accident .............. 59

ACTIONS THAT RESULT IN LOSS

OF LICENSE ............................. 59

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ...............59

INSURANCE ...................................59Insurance requirements ............ 59Reporting the accident .............. 60Accidents on your record ......... 61

DRINKING WHILE DRIVINGOR BOATING ...............................61Basic facts ................................. 61Drivers 21 and older .................. 62Carrying alcohol in a vehicle ..... 62Drivers under 21 ........................ 63

Drinking and driving isdangerous ............................... 63

Zero Tolerance law ................ 63

DRUGS AND DRIVING .....................63ADMIN PER SE ..............................64

Length of suspension orrevocation ............................... 65

Restricted license ...................... 65Ignition interlock ......................... 65

THE COSTOFA DRINK ...................66BAC CHART ................................67ACTIONS AGAINST ANADULTS

LICENSE ...................................68POINTS ON THE DRIVER RECORD ....68ACTIONSAGAINST THE PROVISIONAL

LICENSE ...................................68Traffic violations increase

accidents ................................ 68Teenage traffic deaths .............. 69

Keeping your provisionallicense ..................................... 69

Vandalismall ages .................. 70Habitual truantpersons age

13 to 18 ................................... 70Possessing firearms ................. 70

TRAFFIC VIOLATOR SCHOOLDISMISSALS ...............................70


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SUSPENSIONOR REVOCATIONBY DMV................................. 70

SUSPENSION BY JUDGE ................. 71HEALTH AND SAFETY ................ 71

SAFETY FOR THE AGING DRIVER ..... 71REFERRING AN UNSAFE DRIVER ...... 72

VISION ........................................ 72HEARING .................................... 73ALERTNESS ................................. 73MEDICATIONS ............................... 73HEALTH AND EMOTIONS ................. 74CONDITIONS PHYSICIANS

MUST REPORT ......................... 74

MISCELLANEOUS ...................... 74IDENTIFICATION (ID) CARD ............. 74FREE ID CARDS FOR

P&M CONDITIONS .................... 74DESIGNATED DRIVER PROGRAM ....... 74DIPLOMATIC DRIVER LICENSE .......... 75

DRIVING SCHOOLS ........................ 75MATURE DRIVER PROGRAM ............ 75RECORD CONFIDENTIALITY ............. 75PEDESTRIAN RESPONSIBILITIES ......... 76WHERE TO WRITE ........................ 77

EXAMPLES OF SIGNS ................ 78SAMPLE TESTS ................... 81, 83

Copyright, Department of Motor Vehicles 2005.

All rights reserved.

This work is protected by U. S. Copyright Law. DMV owns the copyright

of this work. Copyright law prohibits the following: (1) reproduction of the

copyrighted work; (2) distribution of copies of the copyrighted work; (3)

preparation of derivative works based upon the copyrighted work; (4)

displaying the copyrighted work publicly; or (5) performing the copyrighted

work publicly. All requests for permission to make copies of all or any partof this publication should be addressed to:

Department of Motor Vehicles

Legal Office M/S E128

P. O. Box 932382

Sacramento, CA 94232-3820


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This is a brief summary of

Californias vehicle registration

requirements. Visit the Department

of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for detailed information. The

web address and telephone numbers

are on the next page.

CALIFORNIA VEHICLES

When you purchase a new or used

vehicle from a licensed California

dealer, the dealer collects use taxand fees to register and title thevehicle.

The dealer submits the fees and

documents to DMV and gives you

a temporary operating authority.Usually within six to eight weeks

after your purchase date, you willreceive a registration card, license

plates, stickers, and a Certificate

of Title, if appropriate.

If youobtain or purchasea vehicle

from a private party, you must

transfer the ownership within 10

days. Submit:

A properly endorsed and

completed Certificate of Title or

Application for Duplicate Title

(REG 227).

Smog certification provided by

the seller, if required.

Use tax payment, if required. Odometer Mileage Disclosure

statement, if applicable.

Appropriate DMV fees.

When you sell or transfer a

vehicle, report it to DMV within 5

days on the Notice of Transfer

and Release of Liability form

(REG 138). Complete the entire

form including the name andaddress of the purchaser and the

date you sold or transferred the

vehicle.

OUT-OF-STATE VEHICLES

Vehicles registered in another state

or foreign country must be

registered in California within 20days after you become a resident

or get a job. (See page 1)

Nonresident military personnel and

their spouses may operate their

vehicles in California with valid

home state license plates or until

the plates issued from their lastduty station expire. They may

renew the registration in their homestate before it expires or register

the vehicle in California. Items

needed to register are:

Completed and signed

Application for Title orRegistration (REG 343).

Verification of the vehicle

completed by DMV or an auto

club employee.

Out-of-state title and/or last

issued out-of-state registration

card, if the title is not submitted.

Smog certification (1976 andnewer motor vehicles only).

Weight certificate for commercialvehicles only.

Appropriate DMV fees.

Completed Odometer Mileage

Disclosure statement, if

applicable.

VEHICLE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS


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DMV INFORMATION

DMV field offices have varying business hours and days of service. A few

offices offer only driver license or vehicle registration service. Call one of

the toll-free numbers below or go online to find the locations and business

hours of an office near you.DMV has two TOLL-FREE telephone numbers.

Call 1-800-777-0133 between

8 AM and 5 PM to:

- Get driver license and

vehicle registration

information, forms, and

publications.

- Find office locations and

hours.

- Make a driving test

appointment.

- Speak to a DMV

representative.

Call 1-800-921-1117, 24 hours

a day, 7 days a week, to:

- Access DMVs voice

recognition system.

- Renew your vehicle

registration using a credit

card and the Renewal

Identification Number

provided on your billing

notice.

- Make a non-driving test

appointment.

Advertising sponsorship, instead of your fees, helps defray the printing costsof this publication. The products and services provided by the advertisingsponsors are not promoted or endorsed by DMV, but the significantcontribution by the advertising sponsors is most appreciated.

If you would like to advertise in this publication, please call the Office of StatePublishing Advertising Department 1-866-824-0603.

Go online at: www.dmv.ca.gov for information about:

Field officeslocations, hours, directions, phone numbers

Ordering personalized plates

Driver license and identification card information

Vehicle/vessel registration information

Formsfor downloading

Publicationshandbooks, brochures, sample tests

Links to other state and federal agencies

Much more


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GENERAL INFORMATION

DISCLAIMERFees mentioned in this handbook

are subject to legislative change.

This handbook is only a summary

of the laws and regulations. TheDepartment of Motor Vehicles

(DMV), law enforcement, and

courts follow the full and exact

language of the California

Vehicle Code. You may buy a

copy of the Vehicle Code at anyDMV office or go online at

www.dmv.ca.gov.

WHO MUST HAVE A LICENSE?

California ResidentsCalifornia residents who drive on

public highways or in public

parking facilities must have a

California driver license, unless

they are:

1. Members of the Armed

Forces or United States

(U.S.) Government civilianemployees who only drive

vehicles owned or controlledby the U.S. on federal

government business.

2. Persons who drive farming

vehicles not normally used on

public highways.

3. Persons who drive legallyregistered off-highway

vehicles or snowmobiles

straight across a highway

(other than a freeway).

California Military PersonnelIf you are out of state on active

military service in the U.S. Armed

Forces and have a valid California

driver license, your license will

be valid for:

The full time you are absentfrom the state, and

30 days from your dischargedate, if honorably dischargedoutside of California. Carryboth your driver license anddischarge papers during those30 days.

Call 1-800-777-0133 and ask fora card (DL 236) which extendsyour license. Military dependentsdo not qualify for this extension.

Nonresident Military PersonnelIf you are 18 years of age or

older, see the rules for CaliforniaResidents and Adults VisitingCalifornia. Licensees eligible formilitary extensions should carrydocumentation from their homestate to verify their status to locallaw enforcement.

New ResidentsWhen you make your home hereor take a job, you must get aCalifornia driver license within10 days.

Residency is established by:voting in California elections;

paying resident tuition at aCalifornia college or university;filing for a home owners propertytax exemption; obtaining a license;or receiving any other privilegeor benefit not ordinarily extendedto nonresidents.


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Adults Visiting CaliforniaVisitors over 18 years old with avalid driver license from theirhome state or country may drivein California without getting a

driver license as long as theirhome state license remains valid.

Minors Visiting CaliforniaVisitors between 16 and 18 yearsold may drive with their homestate license or instruction permitfor only 10 days after arriving inCalifornia. After the 10 days, theymust have either a:

California driver license, or

Nonresident Minors Certi-ficate which is issued by DMVto a minor who has given proofof financial responsibility.

THE CALIFORNIA DRIVER

LICENSE

ACCURATE IDENTIFICATIONThe reliability, integrity, and

confidentiality of the Californiadriver license (DL) andidentification (ID) card is of primeconcern to all levels ofgovernment, and the privatesector as well.

It is critical that these documents

be completely authenticated andaccurate. The CaliforniaLegislature has declared theDL/ID card as the primaryidentification documents in thisstate. California law requires thatall customers who apply for anoriginal California DL/ID card

submit proof of legal presence inthe U.S. as authorized underfederal law. Your true full name,as shown on your legal presencedocument, will appear on your

DL/ID card.

BASIC INFORMATIONA driver license shows that youhave been given permission bythe state to drive on publicroadways. You may apply for adriver license at most DMVoffices. (See page ix)

If you have no outstanding actionson your record, you will receive alicense after you pay the fee,correctly answer questions aboutthe law and safety rules, showthat your physical and mental

condition is satisfactory, anddemonstrate your ability to drivesafely. If you have a medicalcondition or a disability, DMVmay require you to take a drivingtest and/or present a statementfrom your physician regarding

your condition.A person must be at least 21years old to drive mostcommercial vehicles for hire ininterstate commerce and totransport hazardous materials orwastes.

DUPLICATE LICENSESTo replace a lost or damageddriver license, you must go to aDMV office and pay the $20 feefor a duplicate. You must alsopresent photo identification. IfDMV cannot confirm youridentity, you will not be issued a


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temporary license. If you are aminor, your parents must sign theDMV application form (DL 44).

Once a duplicate license has been

issued, the previous license is notvalid. Destroy it if you find itlater.

ADDRESS CHANGESWhen you move, give DMV yournew address within 10 days. Eachdriver must complete and sign a

Notice of Change of Address(DMV 14) form. This form alsoallows you to change the addressfor your vehicle registration. Mailthe completed and signed DMV14 to the address shown on theform. You can call 1-800-777-0133 and ask to have a DMV 14

mailed to you or go online atwww.dmv.ca.gov.

Type or write your new addresson a small piece of paper. Signand date the paper and carry itwith your DL/ID card. Or youcan call 1-800-777-0133 and

request a Change of AddressCertificate card (DL 43) tocomplete and carry with yourDL/ID card. There is no chargeto change your address.

Reminder: The post office doesnot forward DMV correspondence.

NAME CHANGESIf you change your name, youmust take your old DL/ID card toa DMV office with acceptableverification of your true fullname. (See page 6) Noadditional examination will be

given, but the $20 fee will becharged. A new picture andthumb print will be taken. Yourold photo DL/ID card will beinvalidated and returned to you.

LICENSE RENEWALSIf you are renewing a CaliforniaDL, you must be at least 18 yearsold.

DMV issues a regular DL for afive-year term. The license

expires on your birthday in theyear shown on the license. It isagainst the law to drive afteryour license expires.

DMV sends a renewal notice toyour address of record about twomonths before your licenseexpires. Follow the instructionson the renewal notice. If you donot receive a renewal notice, callto make an appointment. (Seepage ix)

If DMV cannot confirm youridentity, you will not be issued atemporary license.

A driving test may be required aspart of any driver licensetransaction. Driving tests are notrequired simply because of age.

Qualified drivers may be eligibleto renew by mail or online atDMVs website. (See page 14)

Refer to the Commercial DriverHandbook or California Motorcycle Handbook if youhave a commercial license or two-wheel vehicle endorsement.


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LICENSE CLASSES

Tell DMV the type of license youneed. The ten license classes aredefined as follows:

NOTE: Class M1 or M2 is addedto any other class license afterpassing law and skill tests.

Class A*

You may drive any legalcombination of vehicles, includingvehicles under Classes B and C.

You may tow:

- any single vehicle with a GrossVehicle Weight Rating(GVWR) of more than10,000 lbs.

- any tra iler bus , wi th

endorsement.- more than one vehicle, with

endorsement.

- any vehicle under Classes B(an additional endorsementmay be required) or C.

Class A Fire Fighter*

You may drive only Class A andClass B defined combination firefighting vehicles and all vehicleslisted under Class C.

You may tow a single vehiclewith a GVWR of more than10,000 lbs.

Class A Noncommercial

You may drive any vehicle listedunder Class C.

You may tow a travel trailerweighing over 10,000 lbs. GVWR

or a 5th-wheel travel trailerweighing over 15,000 lbs. GVWRwhen the trailer is not used forhire (pay or other compensation).Refer to the Recreational

Vehicles and Trailers booklet.

Class B*

You may drive:

- any single vehicle with aGVWR of more than26,000 lbs.

- a 3-axle vehicle weighing over6,000 lbs. gross.

- any bus (except a trailer bus),with endorsement.

- any farm labor vehicle, withendorsement.

- all vehicles listed underClass C.

You may tow a single vehiclewith a GVWR of 10,000 lbs. orless.

Class B Fire Fighter*

You may drive only a Class B

defined single fire fightingvehicle and all the vehicles listedunder Class C.

You may tow a single vehiclewith a GVWR of 10,000 lbs. orless.

Class B Noncommercial

You may drive:

- any vehicle listed underClass C.

- a housecar over 40 feet butnot over 45 feet, withendorsement.

* Refer to the Commercial Driver Handbook


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You may tow any vehicle listedunder Class C. Refer to the

Recreational Vehicles and

Trailers booklet.

Class CYou may drive:

- any 2-axle vehicle with aGVWR of 26,000 lbs. or less.

- any 3-axle vehicle weighing6,000 lbs. or less gross.

- any housecar 40 feet or less.

- a vanpool vehicle, designedto carry more than 10 but lessthan 15 persons including thedriver. The driver must havea valid medical on file andcarry a valid medical card.The driver must also have a

signed certification stating he/she has not been convictedof reckless driving, drunkdriving, or hit-and-run inthe last five years.(VC 12804.9[j])

- a motorized scooter.

A farmer or employee of a farmer may drive:

- any combination of vehicleswith a Gross CombinationWeight Rating (GCWR) of26,000 lbs. or less if usedexclusively in agricultural

operations and it is not forhire or compensation.

You may tow:

- a single vehicle with a GVWRof 10,000 lbs. or less includinga tow dolly, if used.

- a boat trailer provided the

GCWR does not exceed26,000 lbs. when the towingis for recreational purposesor repair, is not used incommerce or contract carrier

operations, or in business, isnot for hire, and does notrequire an oversize permit.(VC 35780)

With a vehicle weighing at least

4,000 lbs., you may tow a:

- trailer coach or 5th-wheeltravel trailer under 10,000 lbs.GVWR when towing is notfor compensation.

- 5 th-wheel travel t rai lerexceeding 10,000 lbs. butunder 15,000 lbs. GVWR,when towing is not for

compensation and withendorsement.

NOTE:

Class C licensees may not towmore than one vehicle.

No passenger vehicle regard-

less of weight, may tow morethan one vehicle.

No motor vehicle under 4,000lbs. unladen may tow anyvehicle weighing 6,000 lbs. ormore gross. (VC 21715)

Class C Commercial*

You may drive any Class Cvehicle carrying hazardousmaterials or wastes (Health &Safety Code 25115 and 25117)which requires placardswith a hazardous materialsendorsement.

* Refer to the Commercial Driver Handbook


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You may tow the same vehicleslisted in Class C.

Class M1

You may operate any 2-wheel

motorcycle or motor-driven cycle.Refer to the California Motorcycle Handbook.

Class M2

You may operate any motorizedbicycle, or moped, or any bicyclewith an attached motor. Refer tothe California Motorcycle

Handbook.

NOTE: Starting January 1, 2005,a Class C license is required tooperate a motorized scooter.

Ambulance Driver Certificate

If you wish to drive an ambulanceused commercially in emergencyservice (VC 2512), apply at anyDMV office. You may purchasean Ambulance Driver

Handbook for $5.

Verification of Training

Document

If you wish to drive a transit bus,

you must have a Class A or Blicense with a passenger transportendorsement.

OBTAINING A DRIVER

LICENSE

When you apply for an originalDL/ID card, you must present anacceptable birth date/legalpresence document and provideyour social security number. Ifthe name on your birth date/legalpresence document is different

from the name on your DL/ID

card application, you must alsobring an acceptable true full namedocument. (See below.) Yourthumb print* and picture will alsobe taken. For any other DL/ID

card transaction, you mustpresent photo identification.

ACCEPTABLE DOCUMENTSAn acceptable birth date/legalpresence or true full namedocument is issued by a county orstate. This document is a certifiedcopy of the original (the originalis always retained by the countyor state) and contains animpressed seal or an originalstamped impression. The certifiedcopy will be returned to you. Ifyou make a copy of the certified

copy, DMV will not accept it forbirth date/legal presence or truefull name verification.

Some acceptable birth date/legal presence documents are:U.S. Birth Certificate, Proof ofIndian Blood Degree, U.S.

Passport, U.S. Armed ForcesID Cards, Certificate ofNaturalization, PermanentResident Card, or a foreignpassport or Mexican BorderCrossing Card with a valid I-94.

Your social security number willbe verified with the SocialSecurity Administration.

True full name verification

documents are:

Adopt ion documentscontaining your legal name as aresult of the adoption.

* The term thumb print means a thumbprint or fingerprint, if you have no thumbs.


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Name change documentscontaining your legal name bothbefore and after the namechange.

Marriage Certificate. Dissolut ion of marriage

documentcontaining yourlegal name as a result of thecourt action.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTSFOR ALL DRIVERS

To apply for a driver license, youmust:

Submit a completed DMVapplication form (DL 44).Signing this form means youagree to submit to a chemicaltest to determine the alcohol or

drug content of your blood whenrequired by a peace officer. Ifyou refuse to sign this statement,DMV will not issue a permit orlicense.

Present an acceptable birthdate/legal presence document.

Provide your true full name. Provide your Social Security

Number. It will be verifiedwith the Social SecurityAdministration.

Pay the $25 application feewhen you apply for any new or

change of class permit orlicense. It will not be returned.The fee is good for 12 monthsand allows you to take theappropriate law test(s) threetimes, if needed, during thatperiod. The fee pays for both

the instruction permit and driverlicense, if you qualify for bothwithin the 12-month period. Ifthe application expires, you mustresubmit documents, repay the

application fee, and retake therequired tests.

Pass an eye exam. Any personwith a best corrected vision of20/200 or worse in the bettereye cannot be issued a driverlicense or use a bioptic

telescopic or similar lens toqualify for a driver license.

Have your picture taken.

Give a thumb print.

MINORS PERMIT REQUIREMENTSA minor is a person under 18

years of age. Minors must havetheir application for a driverlicense or any change of licenseclass signed by their parents orlegal guardians.

NOTE: Minors may not work asa driver for pay until they are 18

years old and licensed inCalifornia and they may not drivea school bus containing pupils.

To get a permit, you must:

Be at least 151/2, but under 18years of age.

Complete the appl ica t ion

requirements. Have your parents o r

guardians signatures on theDL 44.

Pass a traffic laws and roadsigns test. If you fail the test,you must wait one week before


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taking it again. This will giveyou time to study.

Ifyou are between 151/2 and171/2, provide proof that you

have met one of the followingrequirements:

- completed driver education(DE) and driver training (DT).(DL 387, DL 388, DL 388A,OL 237, or OL 238)

- completed DE and are taking

DT. (DL 387, DL 392,OL 237, or OL 392)

- enrolled and participatingin an approved integratedDE/DT program. (DL 400)

The provisional permit is not

valid until you start your

behind-the-wheel drivertraining with an instructor or

reach age 171/2.

If you only have a provisionalpermit and you plan to driveoutside of California, contact thedriver licensing office in that state

or country before you drive.NOTE: If you are at least171/2, you may obtain a permitwithout completing DE or DT.However, to get a license beforeyou are 18 years old, you mustprovide proof of DE/DTcompletion.

MINORS PERMIT RESTRICTIONSYou must practice with a parent,guardian, spouse, or an adult 25years of age or older, who has avalid California driver license.The person must be close enough

to take control of the vehicle atany time. A provisional permitdoes not let you drive alonenoteven to a DMV office to take adriving test.

If you have an M1 or M2 permit,you cannot carry passengers, youmust ride during daylight hoursonly, and you cannot ride on thefreeway.

MINORS LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

You must: Be at least 16 years old.

Prove that you have finishedboth DE and DT. (DL 387,DL 388, DL 388A, OL 237, orOL 238)

Have had a Cali fornia

instruction permit for at leastsix months.

Provide a parents signature onyour instruction permit statingyou have completed the 50 hoursof supervised driving practice(10 hours must be night driving)

outlined in the Parent-TeenTraining Guide. Call 1-800-777-0133 to request this booklet.

Pass the behind-the-wheeldriving test. You have threechances to pass the driving testwhile your permit is valid. If

you fail the first driving test,you must pay a $5 retest fee fora second or third attempt andwait two weeks before you aretested again.

Once you have your provisionallicense, you may drive alone as


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long as you do not have accidentsor traffic violations. (See page68)

When you become 18 years old,

the provisional part of yourlicense ends. You may keep thephoto license you have or pay$20 for a duplicate license withoutthe word provisional.

The following restrictions applyafter you are licensed:

During the first 12 months, youcannot drive between midnightand 5:00 AM unless you areaccompanied by your parent orguardian, a licensed driver25 years of age or older, or alicensed or certified drivinginstructor.

During the first six months, youcannot transport passengersunder age 20 unless you areaccompanied by your parent orguardian, a licensed driver25 years of age or older, or alicensed or certified driving

instructor.

EXCEPTIONSMINORS LICENSERESTRICTIONSThe law allows the followingexceptions when reasonabletransportation is not available andit is necessary for you to drive. A

note is required to explain thenecessity and the date when thedriving necessity will end.

Medical necessity. The notemust be signed by yourphysician.

School or school-authorizedactivity. The note must be signedby your school principal, dean,or his/her designee.

Employment necessity. Thenote must be signed by youremployer and verifyemployment.

Immediate need of familymember. The note must be signedby your parent or legal guardian.

Emancipated minor. Nodocumentation is needed.However, you must havealready declared yourselfemancipated and providedDMV with Proof of FinancialResponsibility (SR 1P) in lieuof your guarantors signatures.

ADULTS PERMIT REQUIREMENTSIf you are 18 years old, meet theapplication requirements, andpass the tests, you may be issueda California driver license. Thereis no upper age limit.

If you want to obtain professionaldriver education and drivertraining, see page 75.

You must have an instructionpermit while learning to drive.Your accompanying driver mustbe 18 years of age or older andhave a valid California driverlicense. The person must be withyou in the vehicle, close enoughto take control of it at any time.An instruction permit does notpermit to you drive alonenoteven to a DMV office to take thedriving test.


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If you have an M1 or M2 permit,you cannot carry passengers, youmust ride during daylight hoursonly, and you cannot ride on thefreeway.

To get a permit, you must:

Be at least 18 years of age.

Complete the applicat ionrequirements.

Pass a traffic laws and roadsigns test.

ADULTS LICENSEREQUIREMENTSIf you have never been licensed,you must:


Complete all the steps required

for a permit. Bring your instruction permit

with you.

Pass a behind-the-wheel drivingtest. If you fail the first drivingtest, you must pay a $5 retestfee for a second or third attempt

and wait until the next day orthe next available appointmentbefore you are tested again.

If you have an out-of-state orout-of-country license, you must:


Complete all the steps requiredfor a permit. (A temporarylicense will not be issued if yourvisual acuity is worse than 20/70 in both eyes together.)

Surrender your valid out-of-county driver license.

Out-of-state licenses will beinvalidated and returned.

NOTE : Driving tests forholders of out-of-state or U.S.

territory licenses are normallywaived. However, thedepartment may require adriving test for any type ofapplication. Driving tests arerequired for out-of-countrylicense holders.

THE EXAMINATION

PROCESS

WHERE TO TAKE THE TESTSYou may take the written, vision,and driving tests at any DMV

office which provides driverlicense services. Written andvision tests are required whenyou apply for an original orupgrade to a different class oflicense. Written tests may berequired for a license renewal.Driving tests are usually waived

for the class of license youcurrently have. However, thedepartment may require a drivingtest for any type of application.Appointments are available forall DMV services. Anappointment is usually

required to take any drivingtest.

DMV WANTS YOU TO PASSDMV wants you to pass yourtest. There are law exams in manydifferent languages. However,you must have the ability to read


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traffic signs in English. If thelanguage you read is not available,you may take the exam with thehelp of an interpreter. Audioexams and an English exam in

large print are also available. Ifyou have difficulty with an exam,tell the DMV employee. You canbe more successful by followingthese suggestions:

Read this handbook. Take afew days to review the

information. Ask a family member or a friend

to test your knowledge.

Read the tes t ques t ionscarefully. Dont read anythingextra into the question. Thereis only one correct answer.

All test questions are based onthis handbook. If you miss aquestion, the DMV employeecan tell you where to find thecorrect answer.

Review the sample testquestions on pages 80 and 81.

Sample questions are alsoavailable online atwww.dmv.ca.gov.

DMVS EXAMINATIONSYour driver license examinationsinclude:

A vision test. If you needglasses or corrective contactlenses to pass this test, youmust wear them. Your licensewill show that you must wearcorrective lenses whiledriving. If you do not pass thevision test, you will be referred

to your vision specialist. Adriving test may be required.

A test of traffic laws, road signs,and driving safety rules (written

or audio) to find out if you knowhow to legally drive yourvehicle.

A driving test, if required. Thistest is usually given byappointment only. For thedriving test, bring:

- your old license or instructionpermit, if you have one.

- a licensed driver.

- a vehicle that is safe to drive,currently and properlyregistered, and displays afront and rear license plate.

The vehicles brake lights,horn, parking brake, andelectric signals must workproperly and the vehiclecannot have bald tires. Thedrivers side window mustroll down. The windshieldmust allow a full unobstructed

field of vision and there mustbe two rear view mirrors (oneon the left outside of thevehicle).

You will be asked to locatethe controls for the vehiclesheadlights, windshield wipers,

defroster, and emergencyflashers. You mustdemonstrate how to use theparking brake. You mustshow that your car is properlyinsured. If you use a rentalcar for the driving test, the


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drivers name must show on

the contract as the insured.

You must also wear your seat

belt.

NOTE: The driving test will bepostponed if the vehicle does not

meet the above requirements or

if you refuse to use your seat belt

during the driving test.

THE DRIVING TEST

The driving test is your chance to

show that you can drive safely.Only you and the examiner (orother DMV personnel) can be inthe vehicle. No animal may be inthe vehicle. The examiner willgive you directions and will nottrick you or ask you to do anythingillegal. The driving test is only

given after all the applicationrequirements have been met.

You will be asked to show the armsignals. (See page 31) However,during the test, you must use thevehicles turn signal lights.

During the driving test, the

examiner will note: How you start your vehicle.

When leaving the curb, do youuse your mirrors and turn yourhead and look back for passingcars? Do you signal, and waituntil it is safe before enteringtraffic?

How you drive in hazardousweather conditions. Do youturn on your headlights whenusing your windshield wipersand/or when it is snowing,raining, or foggy or when youcant see clearly 1000 feetahead of you?

How you control your vehicle.Do you use the gas pedal, brake,steering wheel (hands onopposite sides), and othercontrols correctly?

How you drive in traffic. Doyou use the proper lane? Doyou signal, turn your head andlook back before pulling awayfrom the curb or when youchange lanes? Do you signalthe proper distance beforeturning? Do you follow other

vehicles at a safe distance? How you obey the traffic

signals and posted signs (suchas speed limit signs).

How you drive through blind orcrowded intersections. Do youscan carefully for signs, signals,

pedestrians, and othervehicles? Do you yield and takethe right of way correctly?

How you steer your vehicle.Do you turn from the properlane into the proper lane? Isyour turn too wide or too sharp?

How you stop. Do you stop

smoothly and at the limit line orat the corner? Can you stopquickly and safely in anemergency? In a vehicle with amanual transmission, do youkeep the vehicle in gear or pushthe clutch in and coast to astop?

How you back up. Do you lookover your right shoulder whilebacking? Can you back in astraight line? Do you havecomplete control of the vehicle?

How you change your speedbased on the number and speedof nearby traffic, the people


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crossing the street, roadconditions, weather, the amountof light, and the distance youcan see ahead.

How you respect the rights of

others. Are you courteous toother drivers and pedestrians?

Whether you pay full attentionto the job of driving.

At the end of the driving test, the

examiner will discuss the results

with you and give you a copy of

your score sheet. If you pass thedriving test, you will be issued a

60-day interim license.

MISCELLANEOUS

LICENSING INFORMATION

LICENSE REFUSAL

DMV takes the strongest action

possible against anyone who alters

or otherwise attempts to falsify adriver license. DMV may also

refuse to issue you a license if

you:

Have a history of alcohol ordrug abuse.

Have used the license illegally

or lied on your application or

cheated on any licenseexamination.

Do not understand traffic laws

or signs.

Do not have the skill to drive orhave a health problem that

makes your driving unsafe.

Have an outstanding court

action.

Impersonate an applicant or

allow someone else to

impersonate you to fraudulently

qualify for a license.

Submit a fraudulent birth date/legal presence document or

social security document.

Refuse to sign the certification

on the application form

(DL 44) or give a thumb print.

Also see Actions That Result In

Loss Of License on page 59.

LIMITED TERM LICENSES

Drivers with physical or medical

conditions may need to bereexamined from time to time by

a physician or be retested more

often than every five years

(limited term license status) by aDMV examiner. See the Health

& Safety Section for more

information.

LICENSE EXTENSION

If you are away from California

(up to one year), you may request

a free one-year extension beforeyour driver license expires.

Limited term drivers are noteligible for this extension. Mail

your request to DMV, P.O. Box

942890, Sacramento, CA 94290-

0001. Include your name, driver

license number, birth date,

California residence address, and

your out-of-state address.

LICENSE IN YOUR POSSESSION

You must always have your driver

license with you when you drive.

Show it to any police officer who


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asks to see it. If you are in anaccident, you must show it to theother driver(s) involved. (Seepage 59)

UNLICENSED DRIVERSIt is against the law to loan yourvehicle to a person who isunlicensed or whose drivingprivilege has been suspended. Ifthe person is caught driving,yourvehicle may be impounded for 30days. (VC 14602.6)

No person of any age may driveon a highway or in a public parkingfacility unless the person has avalid driver license or permit. Thelaw also states that you must notemploy, permit, or authorize anyunlicensed person to drive your

vehicle on a public street orhighway unless the person islicensed to drive that class ofvehicle.

RENEWAL BY MAILOR INTERNETIf you have not already receivedtwo consecutive five-year

extensions, you may be eligible torenew by mail, without taking alaw test, if:

Your current license expiresbefore age 70.

You do not have a probationarylicense. (VC 14250)

You have not violated a writtenpromise to appear in courtwithin the last two years.

You are not suspended fordriving with an illegal bloodalcohol content (BAC) level, or

for refusing, or for failing tocomplete, a chemical orpreliminary alcohol screeningtest within the last two years.

You do not have a total violationpoint count greater than one.

NOTE: You may renew byInternet if your renewal-by-mailnotice includes a RenewalIdentification Number (RIN).

MEDICAL INFORMATION CARD

Call 1-800-777-0133 and ask fora free card (DL 390) to list yourblood type, allergies, name of yourphysician, and other medicalinformation. It can be carriedalong with your DL/ID card.

ORGAN DONATION

If you are at least 18 years old,you may donate your body, bodyparts, or a pacemaker for medicaltransplantation, research, or bothafter your death. Donors shouldshare their decision with familymembers. For information aboutthe donor program go online at:

www.dmv.ca.gov/dl/dl.htm.Starting in April 2005, you maycontact the Donate Life CaliforniaOrgan and Tissue Donor Registryat: www.donatelifecalifornia.org.

You may also contact theseorganizations for organ/tissuedonations or monetary donations:

California Transplant DonorNetwork, 1-888-540-9400

Golden State Donor Services,916-567-1600

Lifesharing, 619-521-1983

OneLegacy, 1-800-786-4077


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LAWS AND RULES

OF THE ROAD

RIGHTOF WAY RULES

General InformationRight-of-way rules help peopledrive safely. These rules go alongwith courtesy and common sense.Bicyclists, moped riders, andpedestrians must follow theserules, too.

Never insist on taking the right ofway. If another driver does notyield to you when he or she should,forget it. Let the other drivergo first. You will helpprevent accidents and makedriving more pleasant.

However, if another driverexpects you to take your legalturn, take it. If you dont, youmay delay traffic or cause anaccident.

PedestriansPedestrian safety is a serious

issue. One in six traffic fatalitiesis a pedestrian. Drive cautiouslywhen pedestrians are nearbecause they may cross yourpath.

A pedestrian is a person on footor who uses a conveyance suchas roller skates, skateboards, etc.,other than a bicycle. A pedestriancan also be a person with adisability in a self-propelledwheelchair, tricycle, orquadricycle.

Always stop for any pedestriancrossing at corners or other

crosswalks. Do not pass a carfrom behind that has stopped ata crosswalk. A pedestrian youcant see may be crossing.

Do not drive on a sidewalk,except to cross it at a drivewayor alley. When crossing, yieldto any pedestrian.

Do not stop in a crosswalk.You will place pedestrians indanger.

Rememberif a pedestrianmakes eye contact with you, heor she is ready to cross thestreet. Yield to the pedestrian.

Pedestrians have the right ofway at corners with or withouttraffic lights, whether or not

the crosswalks are marked bypainted white lines.

Allow older pedestrians moretime to cross the street. Theyare more likely to die as a resultof a crash than youngerpedestrians.

Information regarding pedestrianswho are blind is on page 53.

CrosswalksA crosswalk is that part of thepavement where the sidewalklines would extend across thestreet and it is set aside for

pedestrian traffic. Everyintersection has a pedestriancrosswalk whether or not thereare painted lines on the street.Most crosswalks are at cornersbut they can also be in the middleof the block. Before turning acorner, watch for people about to


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cross the street. Pedestrianshave the right of way in

crosswalks.

Crosswalks are often marked

with white lines. Yellowcrosswalk lines may be paintedat school crossings. Most often,crosswalks in residential areasare not marked.

Some crosswalks have flashinglights to warn you that pedestriansmay be crossing. Look forpedestrians and be prepared tostop whether or not the lights areflashing.

IntersectionsAn intersection is any place whereone line of traffic meets another.Intersections include crossstreets, side streets, alleys,freeway entrances, driveway andshopping center entrances, etc.

At intersections without STOPor YIELD signs, slow downand be ready to stop. Yield tovehicles already in the

intersection or just entering it.Also, yield to the car whicharrives first or to the car onyour right if it reaches theintersection at the same timeas you do.

At T intersections without

STOP or YIELD signs, yield tovehicles on the through road.They have the right of way.

When there are STOP signs atall corners, stop first, thenfollow the above rules.

When you turn left, give the

right of way to all vehiclesapproaching you that are closeenough to be dangerous. Also,look for motorcyclists,bicyclists, and pedestrians. On

divided highways, or highwayswith several lanes, watch forvehicles coming in any lane youmust cross. Turn left only whenit is safe.

Yield to traffic before enteringthe road again if you have

parked off the road or areleaving a parking lot, etc.

RoundaboutsA roundabout is an intersectionwhere traffic travels around acentral island in a counter-clockwise direction. Vehicles

entering or exiting the roundaboutmust yield to vehicles, bicyclists,and pedestrians.

When you approach a roundabout:

Slow down as you approachthe intersection.

Multiple and single lane roundabout


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Yield to pedestrians and

bicyclists crossing the roadway.

Watch for signs and pavement

markings that guide you or

prohibit certain movements. Enter the roundabout when

there is a big enough gap in

traffic.

Drive in a counter-clockwise

direction. Do not stop or pass

other vehicles.

Use your turn signals when youchange lanes or exit the

roundabout .

If you miss your exit, continue

around until you return to your

exit.

For roundabouts with multiple

lanes, choose your entry or exitlane based on your destination.

For example, to:

Turn right at the intersection,

choose the right-hand lane and

exit in the right-hand lane. (Blue

car)

Go st raight through theintersection, choose either lane,

and exit in the lane you entered.

(Red car)

Turn left, choose the left lane,

and exit. (Yellow car)

On Mountain Roads

When two vehicles meet on a

steep road where neither can pass,

the vehicle facing downhill must

yield the right of way by backing

up until the vehicle going uphill

can pass. The vehicle facing

downhill has the greater amount

of control when backing.

TRAFFIC SIGNAL LIGHTS

Solid Red . A red

signal light meansSTOP. You can

make a right turn

against a red light after

you stop and yield to

pedestrians, bicyclists, and

vehicles that are close enough to

be a hazard. Make the right turn

only when it is safe. Do not turn

if a NO TURN ON RED signis posted.

Red Arrow. A red

arrow means STOP.

Remain stopped untilthe green signal or green

arrow appears. Do notturn against a red arrow.

Flashing Red. Aflashing red signal light

means STOP. After

stopping, you may

proceed when it is

safe. Observe the right-of-wayrules.

Solid Yellow. A

yellow signal light mean

CAUTION. The red

signal is about to appear.

When you see the

yellow light, stop if youcan do so safely. If you cant

stop safely, enter the intersection

cautiously.

Yellow Arrow. A

yellow arrow means

the protected turning


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time period is ending. Be prepared

to obey the next signal which

could be the green or red light or

the red arrow.

Flashing Yellow. Aflashing yellow signal

light warns you to be

careful. You do not need

to stop for a flashing yellow light

but you must slow down and be

especially alert before enteringthe intersection.

Solid Green. A green

light means GO butfirst give the right of way

to any vehicle, bicyclist,

or pedestrian in the

intersection. If you are turning

left, make the turn only if you

have enough space to completethe turn before any oncoming

vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian

becomes a hazard. Do not enter

the intersection if you cannot get

completely across before the light

turns red. If you block the

intersection, you can be cited.

Green Arrow. A green

arrow means GO.

You must turn in the

direction the arrow is

pointing after you yield

to any vehicle, bicyclist, or

pedestrian still in the intersection.

The green arrow allows you tomake a protected turn. This

means oncoming vehicles,

bicyclists, and pedestrians are

stopped by a red light as long as

the green arrow is lighted.

Traffic Signal Blackout. If a

traffic signal light is not working,

proceed as if the intersection is

controlled by a stop sign in all

directions.

PEDESTRIAN SIGNAL LIGHTS

Pedestrian signals show words

or pictures as follows:

Walk or

W a l k i n g

Person lights

mean it is legal tocross the street.

Dont Walk or

Raised Hand

lights mean you may not start

across the street.

Flashing Dont

Walk or RaisedHand lights mean

do not start across

the street. Thetraffic signal is

about to change. If the flashing

starts after you have already

started to cross, finish crossing

the street as quickly as possible.

At many traffic signals, you need

to push the pedestrian push button

to activate the Walk or

Walking Person signal. If there

are no pedestrian signals, obey

the traffic signal lights.

TRAFFIC SIGNS

The shape of a sign gives you a

clue about the information

contained on the sign. Here are

the common shapes used.


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Eight-sided redSTOP

signs mean you mustmake a full stopwhenever you see aSTOP sign. Stop before entering

a crosswalk or at a white limitline which is a wide white linepainted on the street. If acrosswalk or limit line is notpainted on the street, stop at thecorner.

Three-sided red

YIELD signs meanyou must slow downand be ready to stop, ifnecessary, to let any vehicle,bicyclist, or pedestrian passbefore you proceed.

Square red and white

regulatory signsmean you must followthe signs instruction.For example, theDO NOT ENTERsign means do notenter a road or offramp where the sign

is posted, usually on a freewayoff ramp. The WRONG WAYsign may or may not be postedwith the DO NOT ENTER sign.If you see one or both of thesesigns, drive to the side of the roadand stop. You are going against

traffic. When safe, back out orturn around and return to the roadyou were on. At night if you aregoing the wrong way, the roadreflectors will shine red in yourheadlights.

If a sign has a red circlewith a red line throughit, it always means NO.The picture inside thecircle shows what you cannot do.

The sign may be shownwith or without words.

Circular signs meanyou are approaching arailroad crossing.

Five-sided signs meanyou are near a school.

Four-sided diamond-

shaped signs warn you ofspecific road conditions anddangers ahead. Many warningsigns are diamond-shaped. Obeyall warning signs regardless oftheir shape.

White rectangular signs meanyou must obey important rules.

See pages 78 and 79 for additionalexamples.

SPEED LIMITSCalifornia has a Basic Speed

Law. This law means you maynever drive faster than is safe forcurrent conditions. For example,if you are driving 45 mph in a 55mph speed zone during a densefog, you could be cited for drivingtoo fast for conditions. Youmay never legally drive fasterthan the posted speed limit, evenif you think it is safe to do so.

Regardless of the posted speedlimit, your speed should dependon:

STOP

DO NOT

ENTER

WRONG

WAY


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The number and speed of othervehicles on the road.

Whether the road surface issmooth, rough, graveled, wet,

dry, wide, or narrow. Bicycl ists o r pedest r ians

walking on the roads edge.

Whether it is raining, foggy,snowing, windy, or dusty.

MAXIMUM SPEED LIMITThe maximum speed limit on mostCalifornia highways is 65 mph.You may drive 70 mph whereposted. Unless otherwise posted,the maximum speed limit is 55mph on two-lane undividedhighways and for vehicles towingtrailers.

Other speed limit signs are postedfor the type of roads and traffic ineach area. All speed limits arebased on ideal driving conditions.Construction zones usually havereduced speed zones.

Driving faster than the posted

speed limit, or than is safe forcurrent conditions, on any road isdangerous and illegal. High speedincreases your stopping distance.The faster you go, the less timeyou have to avoid a hazard oraccident. The force of a 60 mphcrash isnt just twice as great asa 30 mph crash, its four times asgreat!

REDUCED SPEEDS

Heavy traffic or bad weatherYou must drive slower when thereis heavy traffic or bad weather.

However, if you block the normaland reasonable movement oftraffic by driving too slowly, youmay be given a ticket. If youchoose to drive slower than other

traffic, do not drive in the No. 1(fast) lane. (See page 23)Always move to the right whenanother driver is close behind youand wishes to drive faster.

Towing Vehicles, Buses, orLarge TrucksWhen you tow a vehicle or trailer,or drive a bus or three- or more-axle truck, you must drive in theright-hand lane or in a lanespecially marked for slowervehicles. If no lanes are markedand there are four lanes or more

in your direction, you may onlydrive in either of the two lanesclosest to the right edge of theroad.

Around childrenWithin 500 feet of a school whilechildren are outside or crossing

the street, the speed limit is 25mph, unless otherwise posted.Also, if the school ground has nofence and children are outside,never drive faster than 25 mph.Always drive more carefully nearschools, playgrounds, parks, andresidential areas because childrenmay suddenly dart into the street.

Near schools, look for:

Bicyclists and pedestrians.

School safety patrols or schoolcrossing guards and obey theirdirections. For the crossing


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guards safety, allow him orher to safely get to the side ofthe road before driving ahead.

Stopped school buses and

children crossing the street.Some school buses flash yellowlights when preparing to stopand let children off the bus.The yellow flashing lights warnyou to stop. When the busflashes red lights (located atthe top front and back of the

bus), you must stop from eitherdirection until the children aresafely across the street and thelights stop flashing. The lawrequires you to remain stoppedas long as the red lights areflashing (VC 22454). If youfail to stop, you may be fined upto $1000 and your drivingprivilege could be suspendedfor one year. If the school busis on the other side of a dividedor multilane (two or more lanesin each direction) highway, youdo not need to stop.

Blind intersectionsThe speed limit for a blindintersection is 15 mph. Anintersection is considered blindif you cannot see for 100 feet in

either direction during the last100 feet before crossing. Trees,bushes, buildings, or parked carsat intersections can block yourview to the side. If your view isblocked, edge forward slowly untilyou can see.

AlleysThe speed limit in any alley is 15mph.

Near railroad tracksThe speed limit is 15 mph within100 feet of a railroad crossingwhere you cannot see the tracksfor 400 feet in both directions.You may drive faster than 15mph if the crossing is controlledby gates, a warning signal, or aflagman.

At railroad or train crossings:

Look in both directions andlisten for trains. Many crossingshave multiple tracks so be readyto stop before crossing, ifnecessary. Cross railroad

All vehicles must stop

YES

NO


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tracks only at designatedcrossings and only when it issafe to do so.

Expect a train on any track at

any time traveling in eitherdirection. If you need to stopafter crossing the tracks, makesure your vehicle clears thetracks before you stop.

Never stop on the railroadtracks. Remember that a traincannot stop quickly or swerveout of the way. If you are onthe tracks, you risk injury ordeath.

Watch for vehicles that muststop before crossing traintracks. These vehicles includebuses, school buses, and trucks

transporting hazardous loads.

Remember that flashing redlights mean STOP! Stop at least15 feet from the nearest trackwhen the crossing devices areactive or a person warns you atrain is coming. Stop if you see

a train coming or you hear thewhistle, horn, or bell of anapproaching train.

Do not go around or underlowered crossing gates, even ifyou do not see a train. Wait forthe gates to rise. If the gates

are not working correctly, callthe railroad emergency numberposted near the crossing ornotify the local police orCalifornia Highway Patrol.

Near light rail vehicle crossingsThe same rules apply to light railvehicle crossings as to traincrossings. Do not proceed acrossthe tracks until you can see clearly

in both directions and are surethat no other light rail vehicle ortrain is coming. Do not go aroundor under any closed gate. NOTE:Light rail vehicles are very quietand move more quickly thanfreight trains.

Near streetcars, trolleys, orbusesThe passing speed limit, if it issafe to pass, is no more than 10mph at a safety zone or anintersection where a streetcar,trolley, or bus is stopped and

traffic is controlled by a policeofficer or traffic signal. A safetyzone is marked by raised buttonsor markers on the road and is setaside for pedestrians. You willmost often see safety zones inareas where street cars or trolleysand vehicles share the roadway.

Business or residence districtsThe speed limit is 25 mph, unlessotherwise posted.

Near AnimalsIf you see animals or livestock,slow down and obey the person

in charge of the animals. If yousee a stray animal in your path,slow down or stop, if safe to doso.


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TRAFFIC LANES

LINE COLORSSolid yellow lines mark thecenter of a road used for two-way traffic.

Broken yellow lines mean youmay pass if the broken line is nextto your driving lane.

Two solid yellow lines mean nopassing. Never drive to the left ofthese lines unless you are:

Turning left at an intersection.

Turning into or out of a privateroad or driveway.

In a carpool lane that has adesignated entrance on the left.

Instructed to drive on the otherside of the road because your

side is closed or blocked.

Two sets of solid double yellow

lines spaced two or more feetapart are considered a barrier.Do not drive on or over this barrieror make a left turn or a U-turn

across it except at designatedopenings. (See B below)

Solid white lines mark trafficlanes going in the same direction,such as one-way streets.

Broken white lines separatetraffic lanes on roads with two ormore lanes in the same direction.

CHOOSING A LANETraffic lanes are often referredto by number. The left or fastlane is called the No. 1 Lane.The lanes to the right of the No.1 lane are called the No. 2 lane,then the No. 3 lane. etc.

(1) Solid yellow line: No passing if solid

yellow line is on your side.

(2) Double solid lines: DO NOT pass.

(3) Broken yellow line: May pass if

movement can be made safely.

Examples of lane markings

B

Example of numbered traffic lanes

Drive in the lane with the

smoothest flow of traffic. If you

can choose among three lanes,

pick the middle lane for the

smoothest driving. To drive faster,

pass, or turn left, use the leftlane. When you choose to driveslowly or enter or turn off the

road, use the right lane.

If there are only two lanes in your

direction, pick the right lane forthe smoothest driving.


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Dont weave in and out of traffic.Stay in one lane as much aspossible. Once you start throughan intersection, keep going. Ifyou start to make a turn, follow

through. Last second changesmay cause accidents. If youmissed a turn, continue to thenext intersection and work yourway back to where you want togo.

CHANGING LANESChanging lanes includes:

Moving from one lane toanother.

Entering the freeway from anonramp.

Entering the road from a curb

or the shoulder.Before changing lanes, signal,look in all your mirrors, and:

Check traffic behind and besideyou.

Glance over your left or rightshoulder to make sure the lane

you want is clear.

Look for vehic les ormotorcyclists in your blind spot.

Be sure there is enough roomfor your vehicle in the nextlane.

BICYCLE LANESA bicycle lane is shown by a solidwhite line along either side of thestreet, four or more feet from thecurb. The white line will usuallybe broken near the corner andthe words BIKE LANE will be

painted in the lane. Do not drivein a bike lane unless you aremaking a right turn and are within200 feet of the corner or otherdriveway entrance.

You may park in a bike laneunless a No Parking sign isposted.

Pedestrians are not allowed inbike lanes when sidewalks areavailable. Drivers of motorizedbicycles should use bike lanescarefully to avoid accidents withbicyclists.

PASSING LANESBefore you pass, look ahead forroad conditions and traffic thatmay cause other vehicles to moveinto your lane.

Never drive off the paved or main-travelled portion of the road or onthe shoulder to pass. The edge ofthe main-travelled portion of theroad has a painted white line onthe roads surface. Passing othervehicles at crossroads, railroad

crossings, and shopping centerentrances is dangerous.

Pass traffic on the left. You maypass on the right only when:

An open highway is clearlymarked for two or more lanesof travel in your direction.

The driver ahead of you isturning left and you do not driveoff the roadway. Never passon the left if the driver is

signaling a left turn.

When passing a bicyclist, pass on


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the left. If you are in a narrowtraffic lane, wait until the trafficclears in the opposite lane before

passing a bicyclist. Do not

squeeze past the bicyclist.

CARPOOL LANES AND ONRAMPSA carpool lane is a special

freeway lane only for buses and/or carpools. You may use acarpool lane or onramp if yourvehicle carries the minimumnumber of people required forthe carpool lane or you drive a

low-emission vehicle displaying

a special DMV-issued decal.Motorcycle riders may use

designated carpool lanes, unlessotherwise posted.

Signs at the onramp or along thefreeway tell you the minimumnumber of people required for

the carpool and the hours the

carpool requirement applies. Thepavement in this lane is markedwith a diamond symbol ( ) andthe words Carpool Lane. Do

not cross over double parallel solidlines to enter or exit any carpool

lane except at designated entryor exit places.

Vehicles towing trailers aretypically not allowed to usecarpool lanes because they must

drive more slowly and are usuallyrestricted to the right-hand lane.

CENTER LEFT TURN LANESA center left turn lane is in themiddle of a two-way street and ismarked on both sides by two

painted lines. The inner line is

broken and the outer line is solid.If a street has a center left turnlane, you must use it when youturn left (VC 21460.5[c]) or

start a permitted U-turn. Youmay only drive for 200 feet in thecenter left turn lane. This lane is

not a regular traffic lane or apassing lane. To turn left fromthis lane, signal and drive

completely inside the center leftturn lane. Do not stop with the

back of your vehicle blockingtraffic. Make sure the lane isclear in both directions and then

turn only when it is safe. Look for

CARPOOL IS

2 OR MOREPERSONS

PER VEHICLE

MOTORCYCLES

OK

Right Wrong

dm drivers handbook

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