Connecticut Driver's Manual Overview

Introduction

• Governor Ned Lamont and Commissioner Sibongile Magubane emphasize highway safety and driver responsibility.
• Teen Driving Laws: Tougher laws for 16- and 17-year-olds to enhance safety.
• Driving is a privilege, not a right.
• Distracted Driving and Seatbelts: Critical focus for safety.

Chapters Overview

Chapter 1: Obtaining a Connecticut Driver’s License

• Learner's Permit: Must be at least 16, pass vision and knowledge tests.
• Driver Education: Required for 16- and 17-year-olds.
• Restrictions: Specific rules for young drivers.

Chapter 2: Before You Get Behind the Wheel

• Know Your Vehicle: Check brakes, lights, windshield, tires, etc.
• Green Driving: Focus on fuel efficiency.
• Seatbelt and Cell Phone Laws: Mandatory seatbelt use; no cell phone use for young drivers.

Chapter 3: Driving Behaviors

• Good Practices: Starting, accelerating, steering, and scanning.
• Sharing the Road: With emergency vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, etc.
• Dangerous Behaviors: Aggressive driving and distractions.
• Alcohol and Drugs: Strict laws and penalties.

Chapter 4: Road Safety

• Speed Limits and Right-of-Way: Follow posted limits, yield appropriately.
• Roundabouts and Parking: Proper procedures and no-parking zones.

Chapter 5: Know the Road

• Pavement Markings: Understanding lane lines and markings.
• Traffic Signals and Signs: Importance of red, yellow, and green signals.

Chapter 6: DMV Consumer Directory

• Contact Information: How to reach DMV.

Key Safety Messages

• Teen Drivers: High crash risk; need supervised practice.
• Parent Involvement: Essential in safe driving education.
• Organ and Tissue Donation: Encouraged at license application.

Summary

This manual is essential for understanding Connecticut driving laws, requirements for obtaining a license, and practicing safe driving habits to ensure safety on the road for all users.