I85PREP
⌘ K
California DMV Permit Test study materials
California DMV Permit Test study resources

California DMV Permit Test practice questions

One question at a time. Build your California DMV Permit Test understanding.

First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1California Driver's Handbook content

Under California law, what is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for a driver who is 21 or older and operating a non-commercial vehicle?

  1. 0.04 percent
  2. 0.08 percent Correct answer.
  3. 0.01 percent
  4. 0.10 percent

Explanation

California sets the presumptive limit for adult drivers at a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or higher. At that level a driver is considered legally impaired and may be convicted of driving under the influence. Commercial drivers and minors are held to stricter limits.

Question 2California Driver's Handbook content

A driver who is under 21 years old may be arrested for DUI in California with a blood alcohol concentration of at least what level?

  1. 0.01 percent Correct answer.
  2. 0.05 percent
  3. 0.02 percent
  4. 0.08 percent

Explanation

California enforces a zero-tolerance standard for drivers under 21. A BAC of 0.01 percent or higher is enough to support a DUI arrest for an underage driver. The lower threshold reflects that any alcohol is unlawful for this age group.

Question 3California Driver's Handbook content

What does a solid double yellow line in the center of a two-way road indicate?

  1. Passing is prohibited in both directions Correct answer.
  2. The lane nearest the line may be used for passing
  3. Only trucks are prohibited from passing
  4. Passing is allowed in either direction when traffic is light

Explanation

A solid double yellow center line means passing is prohibited for traffic in both directions. The restriction exists because sight distance or roadway conditions make passing unsafe. Drivers may still cross the line when turning into or out of a driveway or making a lawful left turn.

Question 4California Driver's Handbook content

When a school bus is stopped with its red lights flashing on a two-lane road, what must a driver approaching from the opposite direction do?

  1. Stop until the red lights stop flashing Correct answer.
  2. Slow down and continue past the bus
  3. Sound the horn and proceed
  4. Stop only if children are visible

Explanation

A driver approaching a school bus with flashing red lights must stop and remain stopped until the lights are turned off. This applies to traffic in both directions on a two-lane road. The rule protects children who may be crossing the roadway.

Question 5California Driver's Handbook content

At a four-way stop, two vehicles arrive at the same time and are facing each other. One driver wants to go straight and the other wants to turn left. Who has the right of way?

  1. The driver turning left
  2. The driver who arrived first
  3. The driver going straight Correct answer.
  4. The driver in the larger vehicle

Explanation

When two vehicles reach an intersection at the same time and face each other, the driver going straight has the right of way. The driver turning left must yield and wait for a safe gap. This prevents the turning vehicle from cutting across oncoming traffic.

Question 6California Driver's Handbook content

How far before a turn must a driver signal when no other distance is required by the situation?

  1. At least 100 feet Correct answer.
  2. At least 200 feet
  3. At least 25 feet
  4. At least 50 feet

Explanation

California requires a driver to signal at least 100 feet before making a turn. The signal warns following and oncoming drivers of the intended maneuver. Signaling earlier is allowed and often wise in fast-moving traffic.

Question 7California Driver's Handbook content

On a freeway with a posted speed limit of 65 mph, what is the maximum speed allowed for a vehicle towing a trailer?

  1. 45 mph
  2. 65 mph
  3. 55 mph Correct answer.
  4. 50 mph

Explanation

California limits vehicles towing trailers to a maximum of 55 mph, even where the posted limit is higher. The lower limit accounts for reduced stability and longer stopping distances. The restriction applies on freeways and most other highways.

Question 8California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is parked on a two-way street facing downhill next to a curb. In which direction should the front wheels be turned?

  1. Toward the curb Correct answer.
  2. Away from the curb
  3. It does not matter if the parking brake is set
  4. Straight ahead

Explanation

When parking downhill next to a curb, the front wheels should be turned toward the curb. If the vehicle rolls, the curb will block the tires and help stop it. Turning the wheels away from the curb on a downhill grade risks the vehicle rolling into traffic.

Question 9California Driver's Handbook content

What is the general rule about fog lights and headlights when driving in fog?

  1. Use high beams to see farther
  2. Drive with no lights to avoid glare
  3. Use low beams, since high beams reflect off the fog Correct answer.
  4. Turn on only parking lights

Explanation

In fog, low beam headlights are the correct choice because high beams reflect off the moisture and worsen visibility. Low beams aim light down at the road surface. Parking lights alone are insufficient and may make the vehicle hard to see.

Question 10California Driver's Handbook content

A driver's vehicle begins to skid on a wet road. What is the recommended response?

  1. Turn the wheel opposite the skid and hold it
  2. Brake hard and steer sharply
  3. Ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go Correct answer.
  4. Accelerate to regain traction

Explanation

In a skid, a driver should ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly in the direction the vehicle should travel. Hard braking or abrupt steering can worsen the loss of traction. Gentle inputs allow the tires to regain grip.

Question 11California Driver's Handbook content

When an emergency vehicle approaches with its siren sounding and lights flashing on a divided highway, what should a driver do?

  1. Stop immediately in the travel lane
  2. Speed up to stay ahead of it
  3. Continue at the same speed in the left lane
  4. Pull to the right edge and stop until it passes Correct answer.

Explanation

Drivers must yield to emergency vehicles using lights and siren by pulling to the right edge of the roadway and stopping. Staying clear of the path lets the emergency vehicle pass safely. On a divided highway, vehicles on the opposite side are generally not required to stop.

Question 12California Driver's Handbook content

What is the purpose of the diamond symbol painted in a traffic lane?

  1. It marks a lane where trucks must drive
  2. It indicates a lane that ends soon
  3. It marks a lane reserved for high-occupancy or specific vehicles Correct answer.
  4. It warns of a sharp curve ahead

Explanation

A diamond symbol marks a lane reserved for high-occupancy vehicles, such as carpools or buses. The restriction is often in effect only during posted hours. Other drivers may use the lane when the restriction is not in force.

Question 13California Driver's Handbook content

How close may a driver legally park to a fire hydrant?

  1. Within 10 feet
  2. Within 5 feet
  3. Within 15 feet Correct answer.
  4. Within 20 feet

Explanation

California prohibits parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant. The clearance ensures firefighters can connect hoses without obstruction. The limit is measured along the curb from the hydrant.

Question 14California Driver's Handbook content

A pedestrian is crossing the street in a marked crosswalk at an intersection with no traffic signal. What must a driver do?

  1. Proceed if the driver arrives first
  2. Yield and let the pedestrian cross Correct answer.
  3. Honk so the pedestrian hurries
  4. Drive around behind the pedestrian

Explanation

Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing in a marked crosswalk. The duty applies whether or not the intersection has a signal. Failing to yield can result in a citation and serious injury.

Question 15California Driver's Handbook content

What does a flashing red traffic signal require a driver to do?

  1. Yield only to vehicles on the right
  2. Proceed without stopping
  3. Stop, then proceed when safe Correct answer.
  4. Slow down but keep moving

Explanation

A flashing red signal is treated like a stop sign. The driver must come to a complete stop and then proceed only when it is safe. Right of way follows the normal rules for a stop-controlled intersection.

Question 16California Driver's Handbook content

When may a driver legally make a left turn at a red light?

  1. From a one-way street onto another one-way street, after stopping Correct answer.
  2. Only when a green arrow is showing
  3. Only if no other vehicles are present
  4. Never, under any circumstances

Explanation

California allows a left turn at a red light when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street. The driver must first stop and yield to traffic and pedestrians. The maneuver is otherwise prohibited at a red light unless a signal directs it.

Question 17California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is traveling on a road with a posted speed limit of 55 mph and approaches a blind curve. What does the basic speed law require?

  1. Maintaining exactly 55 mph
  2. Driving slower than 55 mph if conditions make that speed unsafe Correct answer.
  3. Speeding up to clear the curve quickly
  4. Using the center line to see around the curve

Explanation

California's basic speed law requires drivers to travel no faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the posted limit. A blind curve may call for a speed well below the maximum. The posted number is a ceiling, not a target.

Question 18California Driver's Handbook content

What is the correct way to use a center left-turn lane on a busy multi-lane road?

  1. Use it to travel for several blocks
  2. Enter it only when preparing to turn left, and use it for the turn Correct answer.
  3. Use it to pass slower traffic
  4. Enter it well ahead of the turn and accelerate

Explanation

A center left-turn lane is meant only for preparing to turn left, usually from either direction. Drivers should enter it close to the turn and not use it as a travel or passing lane. Using it to pass or travel creates head-on risk.

Question 19California Driver's Handbook content

At what distance must a driver dim high beam headlights when following another vehicle?

  1. Within 100 feet
  2. Within 300 feet Correct answer.
  3. Within 500 feet
  4. Within 200 feet

Explanation

High beams must be dimmed when following another vehicle within 300 feet. The glare in the other driver's mirrors can be blinding. High beams must also be dimmed for oncoming traffic within 500 feet.

Question 20California Driver's Handbook content

Under California law, when must a child under 8 years old be secured in a child passenger restraint system?

  1. In a rear seat unless the child is 8 or taller than 4 feet 9 inches Correct answer.
  2. Only when a parent is driving
  3. Only on freeways
  4. Only during nighttime driving

Explanation

California requires children under 8 to ride in an appropriate child restraint, generally in the back seat. A child who is 8 years old or at least 4 feet 9 inches tall may use a regular safety belt. Exceptions exist for certain medical and seating situations.

Question 21California Driver's Handbook content

How should a driver merge onto a freeway from an on-ramp?

  1. Use the acceleration lane to match freeway speed, then merge when clear Correct answer.
  2. Force other drivers to change lanes
  3. Merge immediately at the bottom of the ramp
  4. Stop at the end of the ramp and wait for a gap

Explanation

A driver should use the on-ramp and acceleration lane to build speed matching freeway traffic, then merge into a safe gap. Entering too slowly disrupts traffic flow and increases collision risk. Freeway traffic generally has the right of way.

Question 22California Driver's Handbook content

On a three-lane freeway with light traffic, which lane should a driver generally use for normal travel?

  1. The right lane Correct answer.
  2. Any lane, since lanes are interchangeable
  3. The far left lane
  4. The center lane at all times

Explanation

Drivers should generally travel in the right lane and use left lanes for passing or faster traffic. Keeping right leaves the left lanes open for overtaking and emergency vehicles. Slower traffic lingering in the left lane impedes the flow of others.

Question 23California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is involved in a collision that causes property damage only. What is required under California law?

  1. Wait for police before speaking to anyone
  2. Report the collision only if damage exceeds the insurance deductible
  3. Stop, exchange information, and report the collision if required Correct answer.
  4. Leave the scene if no one is hurt

Explanation

A driver in a collision must stop, exchange identifying and insurance information, and report the collision when the law requires it. Leaving the scene of a property-damage collision can itself be an offense. Police are not always dispatched, so drivers must handle the basic duties themselves.

Question 24California Driver's Handbook content

What does a white painted curb at the edge of the road generally mean?

  1. Parking is prohibited at all times
  2. Parking is allowed for up to two hours
  3. Parking is allowed only long enough to load or unload passengers Correct answer.
  4. Parking is reserved for commercial vehicles

Explanation

A white curb marks a zone where a driver may stop only briefly to pick up or drop off passengers. It is not a place for long-term parking. Other curb colors carry different restrictions, such as red for no stopping.

Question 25California Driver's Handbook content

When may a driver pass another vehicle on the right?

  1. Only on a freeway with three or more lanes
  2. When the vehicle ahead is turning left and there is room on the right Correct answer.
  3. Whenever traffic is moving slowly
  4. Only if the driver flashes the headlights first

Explanation

Passing on the right is permitted when the vehicle ahead is making or about to make a left turn and there is enough paved roadway to the right. The maneuver must be done safely and without leaving the pavement. Passing on the unpaved shoulder is not allowed.

Question 26California Driver's Handbook content

What must a driver do when approaching a steady yellow traffic light?

  1. Continue at the same speed and treat the light as green
  2. Stop before entering the intersection if it can be done safely Correct answer.
  3. Speed up to clear the intersection before the light changes
  4. Come to a complete stop no matter where the vehicle is

Explanation

A steady yellow signal warns that the light is about to turn red, so a driver should stop before entering the intersection if there is enough distance to do so safely. If the vehicle is already too close to stop without hard braking, the driver may proceed through with caution.

Question 27California Driver's Handbook content

A school bus with flashing red lights is stopped on the opposite side of a two-way road with no median. What must the driver approaching it do?

  1. Stop only if children are visible near the roadway
  2. Slow down and pass with extra caution
  3. Stop and remain stopped until the red lights are turned off Correct answer.
  4. Sound the horn and continue at the posted speed

Explanation

On an undivided two-way road, traffic in both directions must stop for a school bus displaying flashing red lights. The driver may proceed only after the red lights stop flashing, which signals that children are clear of the roadway.

Question 28California Driver's Handbook content

What is the meaning of a red circle with a diagonal slash over a symbol on a sign?

  1. The action shown applies only to commercial vehicles
  2. The action shown is prohibited Correct answer.
  3. The action shown is permitted only at night
  4. The action shown is recommended for safety

Explanation

A red circle with a diagonal slash is the universal symbol for prohibition, so the maneuver or condition pictured is not allowed. Drivers should look for the accompanying symbol to learn exactly what is forbidden at that location.

Question 29California Driver's Handbook content

A driver's vehicle has been pulled over by a police officer at night. What is the recommended practice for the driver?

  1. Stay in the vehicle, keep hands visible, and wait for instructions Correct answer.
  2. Step out of the car immediately and walk toward the officer
  3. Drive slowly to the nearest police station before stopping
  4. Turn off all interior lights and keep hands out of sight

Explanation

Drivers should pull over safely, remain in the vehicle, keep their hands where the officer can see them, and follow instructions. Moving around or reaching into compartments can be misinterpreted and creates risk for everyone involved.

Question 30California Driver's Handbook content

Which document must a driver have in the vehicle whenever it is operated on a public road?

  1. Evidence of financial responsibility and a valid driver's license Correct answer.
  2. A recent smog certificate and a bill of sale
  3. A signed statement of vehicle maintenance records
  4. A printed map of the planned route

Explanation

California law requires drivers to carry a valid license and proof of financial responsibility, such as insurance, whenever they operate a vehicle. These must be shown to a peace officer on request.

Question 31California Driver's Handbook content

What does a broken white line painted between two lanes of traffic mean?

  1. The lane to the right is reserved for buses
  2. Lane changes are permitted when it is safe to do so Correct answer.
  3. Traffic must stay in the current lane at all times
  4. Passing is allowed only during daylight hours

Explanation

A broken white line separates lanes traveling in the same direction and indicates that a driver may change lanes when it is safe. A solid white line, by contrast, discourages lane changes.

Question 32California Driver's Handbook content

A driver approaches an intersection where a traffic signal is dark because of a power outage. How should the driver proceed?

  1. Proceed through without slowing because no signal is showing
  2. Yield only to vehicles coming from the left
  3. Wait until a flagger arrives before moving
  4. Treat the intersection as an all-way stop Correct answer.

Explanation

When a traffic signal is not working, the intersection becomes an all-way stop in effect. Drivers must stop, yield to traffic already in the intersection, and proceed in turn.

Question 33California Driver's Handbook content

In California, what is the maximum speed limit in a business or residential district unless otherwise posted?

  1. 25 mph Correct answer.
  2. 35 mph
  3. 55 mph
  4. 45 mph

Explanation

California sets a default speed limit of 25 mph in business and residential districts unless signs post a different limit. Drivers must still reduce speed below that limit when conditions such as rain, fog, or heavy traffic require it.

Question 34California Driver's Handbook content

A driver wants to make a right turn at a red light. What conditions must be met?

  1. Stop first, yield to pedestrians and traffic, and turn only where no sign prohibits it Correct answer.
  2. Slow to about 10 mph and turn if the way appears clear
  3. Sound the horn and turn immediately to avoid delaying traffic
  4. Wait for a green arrow before turning in any circumstance

Explanation

A right turn on red is allowed after a complete stop, provided the driver yields to pedestrians and cross traffic and no sign forbids the turn. If a sign prohibits right turns on red, the driver must wait for a green light.

Question 35California Driver's Handbook content

A driver's vehicle has a blowout while traveling on a freeway. What is the recommended first response?

  1. Hold the steering wheel firmly and ease off the accelerator Correct answer.
  2. Brake hard immediately to stop as quickly as possible
  3. Swerve sharply toward the shoulder to leave the lane
  4. Accelerate briefly to stabilize the vehicle

Explanation

After a blowout, the driver should grip the wheel firmly, keep the vehicle straight, and gradually release the accelerator. Hard braking or sharp steering can cause a loss of control and a rollover.

Question 36California Driver's Handbook content

Before backing out of a driveway, what should a driver do?

  1. Have a passenger sound the horn while reversing
  2. Back out quickly so the vehicle spends less time in the roadway
  3. Check behind the vehicle and yield to pedestrians and traffic on the sidewalk and street Correct answer.
  4. Rely on the rearview mirror alone and back out slowly

Explanation

A driver entering a roadway from a driveway must yield to all approaching traffic and pedestrians. Before reversing, the driver should look behind the vehicle directly, not just in mirrors, because children and small objects may be hidden.

Question 37California Driver's Handbook content

How should a driver respond when an oncoming vehicle's high beam headlights cause glare?

  1. Turn on high beams in return to warn the other driver
  2. Look directly at the headlights to judge the vehicle's position
  3. Look toward the right edge of the lane and slow down Correct answer.
  4. Close one eye until the vehicle passes

Explanation

When glare from oncoming headlights makes it hard to see, a driver should avoid staring at the lights, look toward the right edge of the lane as a guide, and reduce speed. This keeps the vehicle positioned safely until the other car passes.

Question 38California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is about to enter a freeway from a metered on-ramp with a green ramp signal. What does the signal mean?

  1. All queued vehicles may proceed at once
  2. Two vehicles may proceed together to save time
  3. One vehicle may proceed per green signal Correct answer.
  4. The ramp is closed and drivers must merge early

Explanation

Ramp meters release vehicles one at a time on each green signal to smooth the flow of traffic entering the freeway. Drivers should wait for the next green rather than following closely behind the vehicle ahead.

Question 39California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is pulling a trailer and notices it begins to sway side to side. What should the driver do?

  1. Steer sharply in the opposite direction of the sway
  2. Brake firmly to stop the sway immediately
  3. Ease off the accelerator and avoid hard braking Correct answer.
  4. Accelerate hard to pull the trailer straight

Explanation

Trailer sway is best corrected by gradually reducing speed and keeping the steering steady. Hard braking or sharp steering can amplify the sway and cause a jackknife or rollover.

Question 40California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is convicted of a first DUI offense in California. What is one consequence the driver should expect?

  1. Only a written warning with no court appearance
  2. Immediate permanent loss of driving privileges
  3. No consequences if the driver was under the legal limit
  4. License suspension and mandatory DUI education or treatment Correct answer.

Explanation

A first DUI conviction in California typically brings license suspension, fines, and completion of a DUI education or treatment program. Penalties increase for repeat offenses and for aggravating factors.

Question 41California Driver's Handbook content

What is the correct hand signal for a right turn when turn signals are not working?

  1. Right arm extended straight out the window
  2. Left arm bent downward at the elbow
  3. Left arm extended straight out the window
  4. Left arm bent upward at the elbow Correct answer.

Explanation

Hand signals use the left arm because it is visible to other drivers. A left arm bent upward at the elbow signals a right turn, while a straight arm signals a left turn and a downward-bent arm signals a stop.

Question 42California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is approaching a railroad crossing with flashing red lights and the gate is down. What should the driver do?

  1. Proceed slowly through the crossing while the gate is down
  2. Stop only if a train horn is heard
  3. Drive around the gate if no train is visible
  4. Stop and wait until the lights stop and the gate rises Correct answer.

Explanation

Flashing red lights and a lowered gate mean a train is approaching, and drivers must stop and wait until the signals stop and the gate is fully raised. Driving around a gate is illegal and extremely dangerous.

Question 43California Driver's Handbook content

A driver wants to park on a hill facing uphill where there is a curb. Which way should the front wheels be turned?

  1. Toward the center line
  2. Away from the curb Correct answer.
  3. Toward the curb
  4. Straight ahead

Explanation

When parking uphill with a curb, the front wheels should be turned away from the curb so that if the vehicle rolls, the rear of a tire rests against the curb. This prevents the vehicle from rolling into the roadway.

Question 44California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is entering a roundabout. What is the correct procedure?

  1. Yield to traffic already in the circle and enter to the right Correct answer.
  2. Enter to the left and merge with circulating traffic
  3. Signal left and proceed without yielding
  4. Stop completely before entering even if the circle is empty

Explanation

Traffic in a roundabout circulates counterclockwise, and entering drivers must yield to vehicles already in the circle. Once inside, the driver continues to the right until reaching the desired exit.

Question 45California Driver's Handbook content

A driver has been cited for a traffic violation and wants to contest it. What is the usual first step?

  1. Contact the DMV to have the citation removed from the record
  2. Pay the fine and then request a refund from the court
  3. Follow the instructions on the citation, which may include a court date Correct answer.
  4. Ignore the citation and wait for it to expire

Explanation

A citation includes instructions for the driver, such as the date by which to appear or pay and how to request a hearing. Ignoring it can lead to additional penalties and license action.

Question 46California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is traveling in the left lane of a multi-lane highway and a faster vehicle approaches from behind. What should the driver generally do?

  1. Speed up to match the faster vehicle's pace
  2. Brake to encourage the other driver to slow down
  3. Stay in the left lane because the driver is at the speed limit
  4. Move to the right lane when it is safe to let the vehicle pass Correct answer.

Explanation

Drivers traveling slower than surrounding traffic should keep to the right and let faster vehicles pass. Blocking the left lane can cause unsafe passing and road rage, and California law requires slower traffic to use the right lanes.

Question 47California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is driving at night on an unlit road and sees a pedestrian walking along the right edge ahead. What is the safest action?

  1. Maintain speed because the pedestrian is outside the lane
  2. Slow down and give the pedestrian room by moving left if it is safe Correct answer.
  3. Sound the horn and stay in the lane without slowing
  4. Flash high beams and continue at the same speed

Explanation

Pedestrians on unlit roads are hard to see until the vehicle is close, so the driver should reduce speed and create a safety margin. Moving left within the lane, when oncoming traffic allows, gives the pedestrian extra room.

Question 48California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is on a two-lane road and a large truck ahead is signaling a left turn. Why should the driver avoid passing on the left?

  1. Passing on the left is prohibited on all two-lane roads
  2. The truck's turn signal means it is changing lanes
  3. The truck may swing wide to the right before completing the turn Correct answer.
  4. The truck will always stop before turning

Explanation

Large vehicles often need to swing wide in the opposite direction to complete a turn, so passing on the left can put a driver in the truck's path. Drivers should wait until the turn is complete and visibility is clear.

Question 49California Driver's Handbook content

A driver is stopped at a crosswalk and a pedestrian begins crossing from the opposite side. What should the driver do?

  1. Remain stopped until the pedestrian has cleared the driver's lane and path Correct answer.
  2. Proceed as soon as the pedestrian passes the center line
  3. Creep forward slowly to signal the pedestrian to hurry
  4. Sound the horn so the pedestrian knows the light is green

Explanation

A driver must yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing in a marked or unmarked crosswalk and should remain stopped until the pedestrian is safely out of the vehicle's path. Creeping forward or honking can intimidate the pedestrian and create a hazard.

Question 50California Driver's Handbook content

A driver's license is suspended for failure to appear in court. What must the driver do before driving again?

  1. Resolve the court matter and obtain reinstatement from the DMV Correct answer.
  2. Wait for the suspension to expire automatically
  3. Obtain a new license in another state and use it in California
  4. Drive only during daylight hours until the matter clears

Explanation

A suspension for failure to appear remains in effect until the driver resolves the court matter and the DMV reinstates the license. Driving while suspended can lead to further penalties, including vehicle impoundment.