Overview
This lecture reviews essential California DMV written test questions and answers, focusing on rules for safe driving, traffic signs, and legal responsibilities.
Child Passenger Safety
- Children under 8 or under 4'9" must be in a child passenger restraint system.
- Children 8 or older, or at least 4'9", may use a safety belt.
Tailgating & Defensive Driving
- Tailgating frustrates other drivers and can cause rear-end collisions.
- Use the 3-second rule to maintain a safe following distance.
Cell Phones & Distractions
- Let calls go to voicemail if you don't have a hands-free device.
- Minors may only use phones in emergencies.
Speed & Traffic Flow
- Driving too slowly can block traffic and result in a citation.
- Match the speed of traffic unless it exceeds the legal limit.
Parking & Vehicle Visibility
- Ensure your parked vehicle is visible from any direction.
- Do not park next to a red painted curb.
Road Signs & Signals
- Orange diamond: construction or maintenance area.
- Steep grade ahead: slow down, shift to a lower gear.
- No left/right turn: red circle and line over black symbol.
- Yield, Do Not Enter, and Railroad crossing signs described.
School Buses & Pedestrians
- Stop when buses have flashing red lights and stop arm extended.
- Do not proceed until the lights stop and arm is withdrawn.
- Yield right-of-way to any pedestrian crossing any street.
Residential & Special Zone Rules
- Residential/business district speed limit: 25 mph unless posted otherwise.
- May enter a bike lane only within 200 ft of making a right turn.
Alcohol & Impaired Driving
- Alcohol impairs judgment needed to drive safely.
- Conviction of excessive BAC may lead to up to 6 months in jail.
Hazardous Conditions
- Hydroplaning can begin at 35 mph.
- In fog, use low beam headlights and increase following distance.
- Hold the steering wheel tightly during a tire blowout and slow down gradually.
Right-of-Way & Lanes
- Never cross solid double yellow unless turning where permitted.
- On multi-lane roads, don't drive alongside other vehicles; stay ahead or behind.
- Tank trucks with hazardous placards must always stop at railroad tracks.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Tailgating — Driving too closely behind another vehicle.
- Hydroplaning — Tires riding on water, causing loss of control.
- Blind Spot — Area not visible in mirrors; check over your shoulder.
- Basic Speed Law — Never drive faster than is safe for conditions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review all listed signs, rules, and scenarios.
- Practice identifying and responding to road signs.
- Complete DMV practice tests for all examined topics.