Alabama Permit Test cheat sheet
Alabama Permit Test · Keep the key ideas within reach.
Rules of the Road and Traffic Laws
Right-of-way at an uncontrolled intersection: the vehicle on the left yields to the vehicle on the right.
At a four-way stop, vehicles proceed in the order they arrived; if two arrive simultaneously, the one on the right goes first.
A left turn across oncoming traffic requires yielding to all oncoming vehicles until a safe gap exists.
Alabama speed limits: 30 mph in urban/residential areas, 55 mph on rural two-lane roads, 65 mph on rural interstates, 70 mph on some rural interstates where posted; always obey posted signs.
Following distance rule: use the three-second rule in ideal conditions; increase to four or more seconds in rain, at night, or behind large vehicles.
A driver must stop for a school bus with flashing red lights and extended stop arm when traveling in either direction on an undivided road.
Passing is prohibited on the left when a solid yellow line is on your side, within 100 feet of an intersection, or at a railroad crossing.
When an emergency vehicle approaches with sirens and flashing lights, pull to the right edge of the road and stop until it passes.
Alabama's Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes or slow down when passing stopped emergency, tow, or utility vehicles with flashing lights.
Traffic Signs, Signals, and Road Markings
Sign shapes carry meaning: octagon = stop, inverted triangle = yield, diamond = warning, pentagon = school zone, round = railroad advance warning.
Sign colors: red = stop/prohibition, yellow = warning, white = regulatory, orange = construction, green = guide, blue = services, brown = recreation.
A flashing red signal requires a complete stop, then proceed when safe, like a stop sign.
A flashing yellow signal means slow down and proceed with caution; no stop is required unless traffic dictates.
A solid yellow center line marks two-way traffic; passing is allowed only if the yellow line is on your side and it is safe.
A double solid yellow line means no passing in either direction.
A broken white line separates lanes of traffic moving in the same direction; lane changes are permitted when safe.
A solid white line marks the right edge of the roadway or a shoulder; crossing it is discouraged except in emergencies.
A green arrow means you may proceed in the direction of the arrow if the way is clear; a red arrow means stop and do not turn.
Safe Driving Practices and Hazard Awareness
Total stopping distance = perception distance + reaction distance + braking distance; at 60 mph it can exceed 300 feet on dry pavement.
Hydroplaning occurs when tires ride on a film of water; it can begin at speeds as low as 35 mph on wet roads.
In fog, use low-beam headlights; high beams reflect off the moisture and reduce visibility.
The Smith System: Aim high in steering, Get the big picture, Keep your eyes moving, Leave yourself an out, Make sure they see you.
When a tire blows out, grip the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, and steer straight; do not brake hard.
If your vehicle begins to skid, steer in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go and avoid hard braking.
Alabama law requires headlights on from sunset to sunrise and whenever visibility is less than 500 feet.
A railroad crossing with no gates or lights requires slowing down, looking both ways, and listening before crossing.
Work zone speed limits are doubled in fines when workers are present; obey posted reduced speeds.
Alcohol, Drugs, and Driver Responsibilities
Alabama's legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers 21 and older.
For drivers under 21, Alabama enforces a zero-tolerance policy: any BAC of 0.02% or higher is illegal.
A commercial driver's license holder is considered impaired at a BAC of 0.04%.
Implied consent law: by driving in Alabama, you consent to a chemical test if lawfully arrested for DUI; refusal can result in license suspension.
A first DUI conviction in Alabama carries up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $2,100, and license suspension.
Alcohol affects driving by slowing reaction time, impairing judgment, and reducing coordination and vision.
Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can impair driving; never drive if a medication warns of drowsiness or dizziness.
Alabama law requires drivers involved in a crash with injury or death to stop, render aid, and report the crash to police.
Drivers must carry proof of insurance and a valid driver's license at all times while operating a vehicle.