California Driver's Handbook: DL 600

Key Officials

• Governor: Gavin Newsom
• Secretary: Toks Omishakin
• Director: Steve Gordon

Importance of Road Safety

• Since 2010, over 30,000 fatalities and 100,000 serious injuries on CA roads.
• Significant increase in pedestrian and bicyclist casualties.
• Emphasis on protecting vulnerable road users.

Traffic Safety Measures

• Strategies to reduce driving reliance.
• Road and intersection design improvements.
• Expansion of safe walking and biking options.

Compliance and Safety Tips

• Buckle up and follow traffic laws.
• Pay extra attention to pedestrians and cyclists.
• Avoid driving when distracted or impaired.

DMV Services

• Online: License renewal, registration, appointments.
• Kiosks and phone services available.

California Driver's License (Section 1)

• Must pass knowledge and behind-the-wheel tests.
• Different license classes for vehicles, motorcycles, commercial vehicles.
• REAL ID required by May 2025 for flights and federal facilities access.

Instruction Permits (Section 2)

• Required for new drivers.
• Application needs proof of identity, residency, and social security.
• Under 18 must complete driver education and have parental approval.

Testing Process (Section 3)

• Vision, knowledge, and behind-the-wheel tests.
• Vehicle must meet safety standards for driving tests.

License Maintenance (Section 4)

• Address and information updates required.
• Renew to avoid driving with an expired license.

Safe Driving Practices (Section 5)

• Health and medication can impact driving ability.
• Proper steering techniques: Hand-to-hand, hand-over-hand, and one-hand steering.
• Importance of using signals, horns, and headlights.

Navigating Roads (Section 6)

• Understanding lane markings and traffic lanes.
• Special lane types: HOV, center left turn lanes, bicycle lanes.
• Proper signaling and execution of turns.

Laws and Rules (Section 7)

• Traffic control signals and pedestrian right-of-way.
• Right-of-way rules at intersections and roundabouts.

Sharing the Road (Section 8)

• Awareness of blind spots for large vehicles.
• Safety around buses, streetcars, trolleys, and motorcycles.
• Emergency vehicle right-of-way.

Alcohol and Drugs (Section 9)

• DUI laws for both alcohol and drugs.
• BAC limits and penalties for violations.
• Special considerations for drivers under 21.

Financial Responsibility (Section 10)

• Insurance requirements and low-cost options.
• Collision reporting and consequences for lack of insurance.

Vehicle Registration (Section 11)

• Registration requirements for in-state and out-of-state vehicles.

Driver Safety (Section 12)

• Evaluation of driving abilities and reexamination process.
• Safety for mature drivers and cognitive impairment challenges.

Seniors and Driving (Section 13)

• Renewal processes and options for senior drivers.
• Mature Driver Program and Senior ID Cards.

Glossary (Section 14)

• Definitions of key terms like BAC, right-of-way, and more.

Environmental Considerations

• Reduction of emissions and driving efficiently.
• Proper handling of electric and hybrid vehicles.

Additional Resources

• Contact information for DMV and related services.
• Availability of paperless options for notices.