Overview
The 2024-2025 Oregon Driver Manual provides a comprehensive summary of the state's traffic laws, safe driving practices, licensing requirements, and rules for sharing the road. It is a key resource for new and experienced drivers preparing for licensing tests or seeking updates on regulations.
Identification & Licensing Requirements
- A federally compliant REAL ID or alternate federally accepted ID will be required to fly domestically as of May 2025.
- To obtain a Class C license, applicants must pass vision, knowledge, and drive tests, provide proof of identity and residence, and, if under 18, meet additional requirements.
- Acceptable identification documents and residence proofs must be original or certified copies.
Testing Process
- Vision, knowledge (35 questions, 28 correct to pass), and drive tests are required for new licenses.
- Online and in-person knowledge test options are available; strict rules against cheating apply.
- Drive tests must be scheduled in advance, and the vehicle must pass a safety equipment check.
Rules of the Road
- Obey all official signs, signals, and pavement markings.
- Follow speed limits: 15 mph (alleys), 20 mph (school/business zones), 25 mph (residential), 55 mph (standard unless posted).
- Use the right lane except when passing, and yield to others when appropriate.
- Variable speed limits may be posted electronically based on driving conditions.
Safe Driving Practices
- Maintain a minimum 2–4 second following distance, increased in poor conditions or at higher speeds.
- Always scan ahead and adjust for curves, lane changes, and stopping distances.
- Use turn signals at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes.
Sharing the Road
- Yield to and stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
- Follow special rules in school zones, around bicyclists, motorcycles, large vehicles, and buses.
- Do not use a mobile device unless hands-free (and only if 18+); distracted driving is illegal.
Emergency Situations
- Yield to emergency vehicles; move right and stop until they pass.
- In collisions, stop, assist, exchange information, and file a report if damages or injuries meet legal thresholds.
- Follow specific laws for parking, stopping, and dealing with vehicle breakdowns.
Dangerous & Impaired Driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or drugs results in license loss and possible legal consequences.
- Fatigue, distraction, and health issues can impair driving; always be alert and rested.
- Use safety belts and child restraints as mandated.
Additional Services & Requirements
- All drivers must carry minimum insurance coverage.
- Optional license designations for organ donors, veterans, and those who are deaf or hard of hearing are available.
Contact & Resources
- DMV website: OregonDMV.com, phone numbers, and resources for reporting discrimination and accessing alternative formats are provided.
Action Items
- May 2025 – All Oregon drivers: Ensure you have a federally compliant REAL ID or alternate ID for domestic flights.
- TBD – Prospective drivers: Complete required tests, application steps, and gather necessary identification documents.
- TBD – Under 18 applicants: Fulfill supervised driving/education requirements and obtain parental verification.
Key Dates / Deadlines
- May 2025: REAL ID required for domestic flights.
- November 1–March 31: Studded tires permitted in Oregon.