Overview
The California Driver Handbook summarizes essential laws, driving procedures, safety guidelines, and DMV requirements for all drivers in California. It covers licensing, vehicle operation, road rules, safety practices, insurance, collisions, and special considerations for diverse driver groups.
Obtaining a California Driver's License
- Pass both knowledge and behind-the-wheel tests, based on the handbook.
- Most need a noncommercial Class C license; other classes exist for commercial/motorcycle use.
- Beginning May 2025, a REAL ID is required for domestic flights and federal facilities.
- Undocumented residents may apply for a license.
- ID cards are available for non-drivers of any age.
Instruction Permits and Licensing for New Drivers
- Provide proof of identity, two proofs of CA residency, legal name document, and SSN.
- Under 18 must be at least 15, complete driver education, and have parental approval.
- Under 18s need 50 practice hours (10 at night) and 6 months with a permit before testing.
- Provisional license restrictions include no driving between 11pm–5am and no under-20 passengers without supervision.
Testing Process
- Vision, knowledge (multiple choice), and behind-the-wheel tests required.
- No aids allowed on knowledge test; three attempts allowed.
- Vehicle must meet safety standards for the drive test.
- No advanced driving tech (e.g., automated parking) permitted during testing.
License Changes, Replacements, and Renewals
- Report address change within 10 days; replacement license available for fee.
- Expired licenses are illegal to use; renew online or at DMV.
- Out-of-state residents may request a one-year extension.
Basic Driving Principles and Procedures
- Good vision, hearing, alertness, and physical condition are mandatory.
- Signal intentions for turns/lane changes at least 100 feet in advance.
- Use horns and headlights to communicate and ensure safety.
- Know proper steering and backing techniques.
Navigating Roads and Traffic Lanes
- Understand lane markings and legal uses (solid/broken lines, HOV/carpool/bike lanes).
- Rules for merging, exiting, passing, and parking (parallel, hill, colored curbs).
- Know right and wrong ways to turn, including U-turn and roundabout use.
Laws and Rules of the Road
- Follow traffic signals, signs, and right-of-way rules.
- Special speed limits near schools, alleys, blind intersections, and railroad crossings.
- Laws for safe passing, yielding to pedestrians, and sharing roads with large vehicles, bicycles, and vulnerable users.
Safe Driving Practices
- Scan surroundings and maintain safe following distances (three-second rule).
- Adjust speed and behavior for conditions (weather, night, fog, construction zones).
- Use seat belts and child safety seats; follow distracted driving laws.
Alcohol, Drugs, and Driving
- Illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications impairing ability.
- Strict BAC limits (0.08% adults, 0.01% under 21 or on DUI probation).
- Open containers are restricted; severe penalties for DUI convictions.
Insurance, Collisions, and Financial Responsibility
- Minimum insurance: $15,000 injury/death (one person), $30,000 (multiple), $5,000 property.
- Stop and exchange info at collisions; report to DMV within 10 days if injury or >$1,000 damage.
- License suspension for uninsured drivers involved in a collision.
Vehicle Registration and Responsibilities
- Register vehicles within 10 days of purchase or 20 days for new residents.
- Notify DMV within five days of selling a vehicle.
Special Driver Categories and Safety
- Seniors must renew in person after age 70; may take vision/knowledge tests.
- DMV may reexamine drivers for safety concerns or medical reasons.
- Mature Driver Improvement Programs and no-fee senior ID cards available.
Glossary
- Provides definitions for key terms such as BAC, DPE, right-of-way, and others essential for understanding California driving laws.