California Drivers Handbook Summary

Introduction

• California aims for safe travel for all, whether by car, transit, bike, scooter, or foot.
• Since 2010:
  • Over 30,000 killed, 100,000 seriously injured on CA roads.
  • Significant rise in pedestrian and bicyclist deaths.
• Importance of practicing safe driving and traffic laws.

Copyright and Legal Information

• Handbook is copyrighted by DMV.
• Illegal to copy, display, or perform the handbook.
• Handbook is a summary of laws in the Vehicle Code.

Table of Contents Overview

• Sections cover licensing, testing, laws, safe driving, alcohol/drugs, insurance, collisions, registration, and senior driving.

DMV Services

• Online and Kiosk services available for renewals, appointments, records.
• Phone assistance available.

The California Drivers License

• Required for driving on public roads.
• Different classes for different vehicle types.
• Importance of REAL ID after May 2025.

Getting an Instruction Permit and License

• Requires proof of identity, residency, legal name, and social security number.
• Instruction permit needed before behind-the-wheel test.
• Specific requirements for minors.

The Testing Process

• Vision, knowledge, and behind-the-wheel tests required.
• Importance of understanding vehicle controls.

Changing, Replacing, and Renewing License

• Address and name changes must be reported to DMV.
• Procedures for renewing or replacing lost licenses.

An Introduction to Driving

• Physical and mental health can affect driving ability.
• Proper steering techniques and the use of signals, horns, and headlights.

Navigating the Roads

• Traffic lanes, lane markings, and turning techniques.
• Importance of understanding right-of-way.

Laws and Rules of the Road

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

Safe Driving

• Awareness of surroundings and maintaining safe distances.
• Handling different road conditions like darkness, skids, and heavy weather.

Alcohol and Drugs

• Illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Details on BAC limits and DUI consequences.

Financial Responsibility and Collisions

• Insurance requirements and reporting collisions.

Vehicle Registration Requirements

• Timeframes for registering vehicles and transferring ownership.

Driver Safety

• Reexamination procedures and driver safety assessments.

Seniors and Driving

• Additional considerations for senior drivers, including vision tests and the Mature Driver Program.

Glossary

• Definitions of key terms used throughout the handbook.

Environmental Considerations

• Encouragement towards eco-friendly driving habits and reducing vehicle emissions.