20 questions from the California Driver's Handbook. Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.
1. What is the maximum speed limit allowed when driving in an alley?
Answer: 15 mph. The handbook states that the speed limit for driving in an alley is 15 mph.
California Driver's Handbook, page 43: “The speed limit in an alley is 15 mph.”
2. According to the handbook, what is the correct procedure when encountering double solid white lines?
Answer: Never change lanes over them; wait until you see a single broken white line. The handbook instructs drivers to wait for a single broken white line before changing lanes when facing double solid white lines.
California Driver's Handbook, page 11: “Never change lanes over double solid white lines. Wait until you see a single broken white line.”
3. Why should a driver not move in front of a large vehicle and suddenly slow down or stop?
Answer: Large vehicles take longer to stop than passenger vehicles traveling at the same speed. The handbook explains that heavy vehicles require more distance to stop safely, so sudden braking in front of them can cause a crash.
California Driver's Handbook, page 37: “Large vehicles and commercial trucks take longer to stop than passenger vehicles traveling at the same speed.”
4. When passing on an open highway, what action should you take regarding your speed?
Answer: Speed up to pass the vehicle. The procedure for passing on an open highway instructs the driver to increase speed to complete the maneuver.
California Driver's Handbook, page 21: “Speed up to pass the vehicle.”
5. According to California driving laws, what is the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit for a driver who is under 21 years old?
Answer: 0.01% or higher. The handbook states that drivers under the age of 21 are subject to a 0.01% BAC limit, which is stricter than the standard adult limit.
California Driver's Handbook, page 60: “It is illegal for you to drive if you have a BAC of: • 0.08% or higher if you are over 21 years old. • 0.01% or higher if you are under 21 years old.”
6. What should you do regarding cruise control when driving in high winds?
Answer: Do not use cruise control. The handbook advises against using cruise control in high winds to maintain better control over the vehicle.
California Driver's Handbook, page 54: “Do not use cruise control.”
7. Under what condition is a U-turn permitted on a divided highway?
Answer: If a center divider opening is provided. The handbook lists that a U-turn is allowed on a divided highway only if a center divider opening is provided.
California Driver's Handbook, page 17: “You may make a U-turn: • Across a double yellow line. • In a residential district if no vehicles are approaching you within 200 feet. • At an intersection on a green traffic light or green arrow, unless a NO U-TURN sign is posted. • On a divided highway if a center divider opening is provided.”
8. When turning left, what should you do if an oncoming vehicle has its right turn signal on?
Answer: Wait for the vehicle to start its turn before beginning the left turn. The handbook advises waiting for the oncoming vehicle to actually begin its turn rather than assuming the signal means they will yield immediately.
California Driver's Handbook, page 20: “Wait for the vehicle to start its turn before beginning the left turn.”
9. When stopped by law enforcement, what is the correct procedure for acknowledging the officer before moving your vehicle?
Answer: Turn on your right turn signal to acknowledge that you see the officer. The handbook instructs drivers to use the right turn signal to acknowledge the officer's presence before moving.
California Driver's Handbook, page 25: “Turn on your right turn signal to acknowledge that you see the officer.”
10. Within what timeframe must a driver request an administrative hearing after receiving notification of action against their driving privilege?
Answer: Within 10 days of being served or 14 days from the date the notice is mailed. The handbook defines the specific deadlines for requesting a hearing as 10 days from service or 14 days from mailing.
California Driver's Handbook, page 47: “you must request a hearing within 10 days of being served or 14 days from the date the notice is mailed.”
11. At an intersection without STOP or YIELD signs, if two vehicles arrive at the exact same time, who has the right-of-way?
Answer: The vehicle on the right. The handbook states that when arriving simultaneously at an uncontrolled intersection, the driver must yield to the person on their right.
California Driver's Handbook, page 34: “However, if a vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist gets to the intersection at the same time as you, give the right-of-way to the vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist on your right.”
12. How far in advance should you signal before exiting a highway when you are already in the proper lane?
Answer: Five seconds (approximately 400 feet). The handbook specifies a signal duration of five seconds or roughly 400 feet prior to exiting.
California Driver's Handbook, page 20: “When in the proper lane, signal five seconds (approximately 400 feet) before you exit.”
13. What does a diamond-shaped sign warn drivers about?
Answer: Specific road conditions and dangers ahead. The handbook defines the diamond-shaped sign specifically as a warning for road conditions and dangers, distinct from school or regulatory signs.
California Driver's Handbook, page 31: “Diamond-shaped Sign Warns you of specific road conditions and dangers ahead.”
14. What is the correct procedure when approaching a red arrow light while intending to turn right?
Answer: Wait until the light changes to green before turning. Unlike a standard red light, a red arrow requires the driver to wait for the signal to change to green before proceeding with the turn.
California Driver's Handbook, page 15: “You may not turn right if you are stopped at a red arrow light. Wait until the light changes to green before making your turn.”
15. According to the handbook, what is the specific instruction for drivers approaching a yellow and black circular sign or an X-shaped sign?
Answer: Look, listen, slow down, and prepare to stop. The handbook lists these four actions as the required procedure when encountering these specific railroad crossing signs.
California Driver's Handbook, page 31: “Look, listen, slow down, and prepare to stop. Let any trains pass before you proceed.”
16. When a green traffic signal light is displayed, when should a driver stop before entering the intersection?
Answer: For any vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian already in the intersection. Even with a green light, the handbook requires drivers to yield to those already occupying the intersection.
California Driver's Handbook, page 29: “You should still stop for any vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian in the intersection.”
17. What is the correct action when approaching a double set of solid yellow lines spaced two or more feet apart?
Answer: Do not drive on or over this barrier. The handbook defines these spaced double lines as a barrier that drivers should not cross except at designated openings.
California Driver's Handbook, page 10: “Two sets of solid double yellow lines spaced two or more feet apart are considered a barrier. Do not drive on or over this barrier, make a left turn, or make a U-turn across it, except at designated openings.”
18. What is the speed limit within 500 feet of a school while children are outside or crossing the street?
Answer: 25 mph. The handbook sets the standard speed limit at 25 mph in this specific zone, though it notes some zones may be lower.
California Driver's Handbook, page 42: “The speed limit is 25 mph within 500 feet of a school while children are outside or crossing the street.”
19. What is the speed limit for a blind intersection?
Answer: 15 mph. The handbook states that the speed limit for a blind intersection is 15 mph.
California Driver's Handbook, page 43: “The speed limit for a blind intersection is 15 mph.”
20. If your vehicle starts to hydroplane, what action should you take regarding the brakes?
Answer: Do not use the brakes. The handbook advises against using brakes during hydroplaning because sudden braking can cause loss of vehicle control.
California Driver's Handbook, page 53: “Do not use the brakes. Sudden braking may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.”