Overview
The California Driver Handbook provides official guidelines, requirements, and safety information for operating motor vehicles in California. It covers licensing, rules of the road, safe driving practices, penalties, and additional services.
Licensing and Permits
- Individuals must pass knowledge and behind-the-wheel tests to obtain a license.
- Class C licenses cover most noncommercial vehicles; other classes are required for motorcycles or commercial vehicles.
- Instruction permits are required for new drivers; minors must complete education and training steps with restrictions.
- REAL ID is required for certain federal uses starting May 2025.
License Management
- Address changes must be reported to the DMV within 10 days.
- Lost or expired licenses must be replaced or renewed promptly; driving with an expired license is illegal.
- Out-of-state license holders need to transfer their license within 20 days of residency.
Driving Basics and Safety
- Good vision, hearing, and alertness are needed for safe driving.
- Use hand-to-hand or hand-over-hand steering as appropriate; signal all turns and lane changes.
- Always use headlights in poor visibility and observe the proper use of horns and hazard signals.
Road Navigation and Lane Usage
- Understand lane markings (yellow for two-way, white for same-direction).
- HOV and bike lanes have specific usage rules; illegal to drive in bike lanes except in limited scenarios.
- Know proper right/left turn procedures, U-turn rules, parallel parking, and hill parking techniques.
Traffic Laws and Right-of-Way
- Obey all traffic signals, signs, and road markings; yield to pedestrians and certain vehicles.
- Right-of-way rules apply at intersections, during turns, and when merging.
- Special rules exist for roundabouts, mountain roads, and sharing the road with large vehicles and vulnerable users.
Safe Driving Practices
- Always maintain a safe following distance (three-second rule).
- Adjust speed for weather, road, and traffic conditions.
- Scan surroundings, check blind spots, and avoid distractions (especially with electronics).
- Wear seat belts; child restraints and seating rules apply based on age and size.
Alcohol, Drugs, and Impairment
- DUI laws apply to alcohol and all drugs, including some prescription medications.
- Strict BAC limits: 0.08% for adults, lower for minors and commercial drivers.
- Refusing a chemical test leads to license suspension; penalties escalate for repeat offenses or if injury is caused.
Insurance and Collisions
- Proof of minimum liability insurance is required; higher limits apply for multiple injuries.
- All collisions causing injury or significant damage must be reported to DMV within 10 days.
- Driving privileges can be suspended for lack of insurance or failing to report collisions.
Vehicle Registration
- Vehicles must be registered within 10 days of purchase or 20 days for new residents.
- Out-of-state and newly-purchased vehicles must meet California emissions standards.
Senior and Medical Driver Guidelines
- Seniors must renew in person at age 70+ and complete vision testing.
- Physical, visual, mental, or cognitive conditions may trigger DMV reexaminations or license restrictions.
- Specific programs and ID options are available for seniors.
DMV Services
- Many services are available online, at kiosks, and by phone.
- DMV offices provide applications, renewals, and driver records.
- Community liaison services are available for seniors and teens.