California DMV Handbook Lecture Notes

Section 1: The California Driver's License

Purpose: Allows driving on public roads.
Requirements: Pass knowledge and behind-the-wheel tests.
Types of Licenses:
- Most use Noncommercial Class C.
- Different classes for commercial, motorcycle, etc.
Real ID (Starting May 2025): Required for domestic flights, military bases, federal facilities.
- Undocumented Residents: Eligible for driver's licenses.
ID Cards: For identification, not for driving.
- Application: Provide identity, residency, and SSN docs.

Without Existing License: Apply for an instruction permit.
- Requirements: Proof of identity, residency, SSN, legal full name.
- Minors: Approved by parent/guardian, complete driver education.
- Driving Schools: Different options, check instructor's credentials.
Driver's License: Practice with licensed driver, pass behind-the-wheel test.
- Minors: Specific age and practice hours requirements, provisional restrictions.

Vision Test: Ensure adequate vision; corrective lenses restriction if needed.
Knowledge Test: Multiple-choice, 3 attempts allowed.
- Minors: 7-day wait for retakes.
Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test: Practical test on driving ability; specific vehicle requirements.
- Failed Test: 14-day wait for minors.
- Pre-Test Inspection: Check vehicle's operational features.
- Driving aids: Only certain technologies allowed (e.g., backup cameras).

Updates: Name, address, physical description changes.
- Renewals: Illegal to drive with an expired license.
- Extensions: Available when out of state under certain conditions.

Health Factors: Vision, hearing, fatigue, medications impact driving.
Control Techniques: Hand-to-hand, hand-over-hand, one-hand steering.
Signaling: Use for turns, lane changes, slowing/stopping; always alert others of your intentions.
Headlights: Proper usage essential, various conditions to consider.
Emergency Procedures: Use flashers strategically for warnings and safety.

Lanes: Types and markings (solid, double, broken, etc.).
- Lane Changes: Procedure for safe changes and merging.
Turns: Right and left turn procedures, U-turn rules.
Parking: Various techniques, hill parking, color-coded curbs.
Entering and Exiting Highways: Merging, exiting, and handling traffic.

Awareness: Scan surroundings, avoid tailgating, maintain safe distance.
Blind Spots: Know how to check for other vehicles and hazards.
Special Conditions: Driving at night, in fog, heavy winds, and other adverse weather.
Vehicle Issues: Handling skids, brake issues, and other emergencies.
Distractions: Avoid using phones, eating, or other distractions while driving.
Seat Belts: Importance of wearing seat belts, using child restraint systems.

DUI Laws: Zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol.
- Legal Limits: Varies by age and type of driver. Enforcement officers can demand tests.
Penalties: Include fines, jail, license suspension.

Insurance Requirements: Minimum coverages stated, proof needed when driving.
Collision Protocol: Steps to take and legal obligations if involved in an accident.
Suspensions: Ramifications of driving uninsured or failing to report collisions.

Registering Vehicles: Timeframes and obligations when bringing a car into the state.
Selling a Vehicle: Transfer ownership promptly.

Evaluation: Personal driving evaluation, reexaminations, necessary actions if no longer fit to drive.

Adaptations: Tip for older drivers to maintain safety (e.g., avoiding night driving).
Reexamination: Process for drivers with cognitive impairments.
Programs: Mature driver improvement program and available discounts.