Overview
The Nevada Driver Handbook provides updated guidelines, procedures, and laws for obtaining and maintaining a driver’s license, safe driving practices, and vehicle operation within the state. It covers requirements for new residents, license types, testing, road safety, advanced vehicle technologies, and responsibilities in special conditions.
Licensing and Documentation Requirements
- New residents must apply for a Nevada license within 30 days of establishing residency.
- Applicants must provide legal documents proving full legal name, date of birth, Social Security Number, and Nevada residency.
- Specific documents are required for those born outside the U.S. or with limited-term immigration status.
- Real ID compliance is optional; applicants must provide additional residency documentation.
- Driver Authorization Cards (DACs) are available for those unable to provide legal presence documents.
License Types and Restrictions
- Licenses are classified as A, B, C, and M (motorcycle/moped) based on vehicle type.
- License validity is eight years for those under 65, four years for 65 and older.
- Minors require parental/guardian co-signers and must comply with curfews and passenger restrictions.
- Additional endorsements are required for specific vehicles or driving situations, such as towing or commercial driving.
Testing and Permits
- Applicants must pass vision, knowledge, and skills (road) tests.
- Instruction permits are required for new drivers; minors must hold them for at least six months.
- Fees apply to initial testing and retesting.
Safe Driving Practices
- Seat belts and child restraints are mandatory; laws apply to unattended children and pets.
- Drivers must obey all traffic signs, signals, and highway markings.
- Right-of-way rules, speed limits (basic rule and posted), and safe following distances are emphasized.
- Use of handheld communication devices is prohibited while driving unless reporting an emergency.
Advanced Vehicle Technologies
- Modern vehicles may include systems such as ABS, blind-spot monitors, collision warnings, and lane departure alerts.
- Driver must remain attentive; technology is assistive, not autonomous.
Special Driving Conditions
- Provides guidance for driving at night, in bad weather, skidding, work zones, and in emergencies.
- Drivers must slow down and use extra caution under adverse conditions.
Sharing the Road
- Rules for interacting with commercial vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds, bicycles, pedestrians, and school buses.
- Extra care is required in school zones and at crosswalks; special provisions for blind or visually impaired pedestrians.
Towing and Vehicle Operation
- Guidelines for loading, securing, and towing trailers safely.
- Importance of weight balance, proper hitching, and space management.
Insurance and Financial Responsibility
- Liability insurance is mandatory; minimum coverage amounts specified.
- Proof of insurance must be carried in the vehicle.
- Procedures for reporting crashes and handling uninsured situations.
Driving Record and Penalties
- Demerit point system in place; accumulation may result in suspension.
- Major offenses like DUI result in license revocation and criminal penalties.
- Procedures for license reinstatement are outlined.
Office Information and Resources
- Lists DMV office locations and contact details.
- Encourages use of DMV online services and kiosks for convenience.
Decisions
- Seat belts and child restraints required by law.
- Cell phone use while driving restricted to hands-free only.
- Proof of insurance and residency mandatory for licensing.
Action Items
- Within 30 days – New residents: Apply for a Nevada driver’s license.
- As needed – All drivers: Notify DMV of address/name changes within 30 days.
- Ongoing – All drivers: Maintain valid insurance and follow all safety regulations.
Key Dates / Deadlines
- Instruction permits for minors valid for one year.
- Studded snow tires permitted October 1 to April 30.
- License renewals due by expiration date on card.
Recommendations / Advice
- Always obey posted speed limits and adapt to road conditions.
- Use advanced driver assistance systems as a supplement, not a replacement, for attentive driving.
- Exercise caution in adverse weather, work zones, and around vulnerable road users.