California DMV Test Questions & Answers – 100% FREE
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#1. Truck drivers often keep an extra space cushion in front of the truck. What is this extra space is needed for?
Trucks take longer to stop than a car traveling at the same speed. Cutting into the open space in front of a truck removes the truck driver’s cushion of safety.
Remember, trucks have longer stopping and accelerating distances, weigh more and are not as maneuverable as cars.
#2. When school bus stops with flashing red lights, only traffic following the bus must stop:
If the school bus is on the other side of a divided or multilane highway (two or more lanes in each direction), you do not need to stop.
#3. If you have entered an intersection to make a turn, and the signal turns to red, you should:
Clear the intersection as soon as it is safe to do so. Do not back up.
#4. In general, 1.5 ounces of 80 proof liquor (one shot) contains the same amount of alcohol as:
1 standard drink is
- 1.5 oz. 80 proof liquor,
- 12 oz. 5 percent beer,
- or 5 oz. 12 percent wine.
#5. What does this sign mean?
No right turn. You cannot make a right turn at this intersection.
If a sign has a red circle with a red line through it, it always indicates NO. The picture inside the circle shows what you cannot do. The sign may be shown with or without words.
#6. Which of the following traffic violations will add two points to your driving record?
Some examples of two-point violations:
- Reckless driving or hit-and-run driving.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
- Driving while driver license is suspended or revoked.
#7. If your rear-wheel drive car starts to skid, you should ease off the gas and:
If you start to skid ease off the gas pedal, stop braking, and turn the steering wheel in the direction of the skid. If your rear wheels start going to the right, turn your front wheels to the right.
Steering into a skid is the same as steering in the direction you want to go, or simply steering down the road.
#8. When driving on a slippery surface such as snow or ice, you should:
Reduce your speed. Allow extra space between your car and the car ahead. Do not brake or turn suddenly, instead brake early. Use a low gear when going down steep hills. Be extra careful when passing bridges, shaded spots, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first and may remain icy after the rest of the roadway is clear and dry.
#9. When is it legal to use a cell phone without a hands-free device while driving in California?
You may use a cell phone to contact law enforcement, a health care provider, the fire department, or another emergency entity in an emergency. Remember, call for help in emergencies only.
#10. If you see a pedestrian with a white cane at a crosswalk, you must:
Pedestrians using guide dogs or white canes with or without a red tip must be given the right-of-way at all times. These pedestrians are partially or totally blind.
When these pedestrians are in your vicinity, be especially careful when turning corners or backing up, particularly if you are driving a quiet hybrid vehicle.
Do not honk your horn at a blind person. The blind person has no idea who you are honking at and may be startled by the noise.
Do not give the blind pedestrian verbal directions. A blind pedestrian listens to all traffic sounds before deciding to cross the street.
#11. When can you legally drive around a lowered gate at a railroad crossing?
Never go under lowering gates or around lowered gates. It is dangerous and against the law.
#12. If pulled over and issued a citation requiring a signature, you should:
If the officer issues you a citation, do not argue with the officer about the citation.
If you are stopped by a police officer and cited for a traffic law violation, you sign a promise to appear in traffic court. When you go to court, you may plead guilty or not guilty, or you may pay the citation fine. Paying the fine is the same as a guilty plea.
#13. The California Driver Handbook recommends signaling for _____ seconds when changing lanes on a freeway.
Signal at least five seconds before you change lanes on a freeway.
#14. After passing another vehicle and before returning to the proper lane, it is a good rule to:
Before you return to your driving lane, be sure you are not dangerously close to the car you have just passed. One way to do this is to look for the car in your inside rear-view mirror. When you can see both headlights in your rear-view mirror, you have enough room to return to your driving lane. Do not count on having enough time to pass several cars at once. Also, do not count on other drivers making room for you.
#15. You should NEVER park:
It is illegal to park in the space next to a disabled person parking space if it is painted in a crosshatched (diagonal) pattern. This area is designated for the loading and unloading of vehicles parked in the stall or space.
You may park in a bicycle lane if your vehicle does not block a bicyclist and/or there is not a No Parking sign posted.
#16. When you see this sign, you should:
Obey signs pertaining to pedestrians. This sign warns you that there is a crosswalk or pedestrian path crossing the road ahead. Watch out for, and yield to people walking across the road.
#17. If you are convicted of driving with a blood alcohol concentration at or above the legal limit:
If you are convicted of DUI of either alcohol and/or drugs or both, and you have an excessive BAC level, you may be sentenced to serve up to six months in jail and pay a fine between $390 – $1,000 (plus about three times the fine in penalty assessments) the first time you are convicted. Your vehicle may be impounded and is subject to storage fees.
#18. Road signs with the horizontal rectangular shape are usually used for:
Horizontal rectangles are generally used for guide signs. They can be green, blue, or brown.
#19. You should use your horn:
Use your horn only when necessary to avoid collisions. Do not use your horn to show other drivers that they made a mistake or around blind pedestrians.
#20. At intersections, crosswalks, and railroad crossings, you should always:
Any time you come to a place where people may cross or enter your path or one line of traffic meets another, you should look to the left and right sides of your vehicle to make sure no one is coming. Always look to each side of your vehicle at intersections, crosswalks, and railroad crossings.
#21. You approach an intersection. Where should you stop if there is a stop sign, but no stop line or crosswalk?
If a limit line or crosswalk is not painted on the street, stop before entering the intersection. Check traffic in all directions before proceeding.
#22. To make a right turn from a two-way street onto a two-way street, start in the right-hand lane and enter in:
Begin the turn in the lane nearest the right-hand curb. Watch for pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists between your vehicle and the curb. Do not turn wide into another lane. Complete your turn in the right lane.
Sometimes, signs or pavement markings will let you turn right from another lane.
#23. You want to turn left ahead. In the center of the road there is a lane marked as shown. You must:
A center left turn lane is in the middle of a two-way street and is marked on both sides by two painted lines. If a street has a center left turn lane, you must use it to prepare for or make a left turn, or to prepare for or make a permitted U-turn.
Look for vehicles coming toward you in the same lane, preparing to start their left turn. Do not use any other lane for the turn.
#24. What does this warning sign tell you?
Reduction of lanes (there will be fewer lanes ahead).
These signs are used on multi-lane highways to warn you of a reduction in the number of traffic lanes in the direction you are traveling. Be prepared to change lanes or to allow other vehicles to merge into your lane. Drivers of all vehicles may need to adjust their speed and position to avoid a collision with another vehicle.
#25. Which of the following acts could be aggressive driving?
Aggressive driving and road rage happens when crowded roads, rushing, and impatience cause one driver to react angrily to another driver. To avoid aggressive driving and road rage situations:
- Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
- Do not cut off other drivers.
- Do not drive slowly in the left (fast) lane.
- Do not tailgate.
- Do not make gestures to other drivers.
- Use your horn for emergencies only.
California DMV Knowledge Test – Quick Facts
| What You Should Know | |
|---|---|
| Number of questions on exam: | 46 – if under 18 years 36 – if 18 years and older 18 – renewal test |
| Correct answers to pass: | 36 – if under 18 years 30 – if 18 years and older 15 – renewal test |
| Passing score: | 83 percent |
| Allotted time to complete test: | No limit |
| Wait time before retest: | 7 days (3 attempts within 12 months) |
| This Practice Test | Number of questions on each practice test: | 25 |
|---|---|
| Question pool: | 1,000+ |
| Each test is random | |
Practice Permit Test & Driver License Test
The best way to study for your permit or full driver license test is to use both the Driver Handbook and these permit practice tests!
Make sure you get the latest version of the handbook and read it. Pay special attention to rules and laws that are specific for California .
Use the practice tests to verify what you have learned and if you are ready or not. Take enough sample tests at Driver’s Prep to make sure you can reach the perfect score of 100%. This way we can almost guarantee that you will pass the official exam.
Each CA DMV practice test has 25 random questions based on the handbook and real questions from California DMV (dmv.ca.gov ). After every question on the practice test, you will get instant feedback with a brief explanation if your answer is incorrect.
The number of questions on the real California written test depends on your age and which test you take. If you are under 18 years, the permit test has 46 questions.
The passing score on the real DMV examination is 83 percent. On a permit test with 46 questions, this means you can only miss 10 questions. If you are 18 years or older, you can only miss 6 questions.
Who Must Take the California Written Knowledge Test
You must always take a knowledge test, vision test, and road test when you apply for an original California driver license or upgrade to a different class of driver license.
If you have a license from another state, DMV will usually waive both the knowledge test and the road test.
After a license revocation, you must apply for a new license and re-take all necessary tests, including the knowledge test.
Holders of a driver’s license from a country other than Canada must also take all tests. California does not waive the knowledge test if you move to California from another country.
Computerized Tests with Touch Screens
Previously, you got the DMV knowledge test on paper. Today, you take the test on a computer with a touch screen. Instead of marking the correct answer with an “X”, the applicant now just taps the correct answer on a screen.
The new computer version has randomized questions just like our practice test, which means that no two tests are the same. The computer tests are available in several languages:
- Arabic
- Armenian
- Chinese
- English
- Farsi
- Hindi
- Japanese
- Korean
- Punjabi
- Russian
- Spanish
- Tagalog
- Vietnamese
Computer tests speed up the exam process, but it is also a lot easier to misread and make a hasty decision. So, take your time and read everything carefully.
Read more about studying for your exam: How to Ace the DMV test.
Do Not Cheat!
Remember, the use of any testing aids is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of cell phones, cheat sheets, and the California Driver Handbook. If you use any aid during the written test, you will fail. An action may also be taken by the DMV against your driving privilege or the driving privilege of anyone else who assists you in the examination process.
Make an Appointment?
When you are ready for your test, make an appointment online at www.dmv.ca.gov or call during normal business hours.
The COVID-19 pandemic has limited the face-to-face services at DMV service locations, but knowledge tests and driving tests can still be scheduled in advance.
To make sure you have all necessary documents for your permit application, you should follow the REAL-ID checklist online at dmv.ca.gov
You should have the following documents:
ONE identity document that show full name and date of birth
You will typically bring the original or a certified copy of your U.S birth certificate, a valid and unexpired U.S. passport or passport card, or your unexpired permanent resident card.
ONE original document that shows your name and full Social Security Number
It is best to bring your social security card, but a W-2 form or a pay stub with full SSN is also accepted by DMV.
TWO Proofs of California Residency
You must provide two documents that show your first and last name together with your current mailing address. Examples of accepted documents are your rental agreement or mortgage bill, bank or credit card statements, your tax return, employment documents, or insurance documents.
A child may use a residency document in their parents’ name by presenting a tracing document (such as a birth certificate) showing the relationship.
After the California DMV Knowledge Test
If you pass the written knowledge test, California DMV issues a provisional permit (learner’s permit).
Once you have your permit, you may practice driving supervised by a parent, spouse, legal guardian, or certified driving instructor. You may also practice driving with any licensed California driver 25 years of age or older.
To learn more about California’s graduated driver license process, read this article: What is California Graduated Driver’s License ?
Videos to Help You Study
Learn More!
California DMV – COVID-19 Alerts
CA DMV Customers must wear a face covering and remain 6 feet apart in line.
CA DMV Customers are offered a text message that allows them to wait outside the building until notified it is their turn to be served.
All entry into the service center building is metered.
Latest information here: DMV-related COVID-19 updates
Schedule your behind-the-wheel drive test: Make an appointment at CA DMV
I am 72 years my DL Exp on 06-24-20 how many Question have the Test for older people like me
Normally, a renewal test in California has 18 questions (15 corrected answers needed to pass). Often very basic questions.
Due to the pandemic there is a free one-year extension available for Californians 70 years and older (noncommercial driver’s license). Beginning December 6, you should be able to renew online or by mail (even if your notification says that a visit is necessary).
Read more: Seniors Now Eligible to Renew Driver’s Licenses Online
Thank you for all you answers, to our many questions. I am also a senior, and will take my renewal license written test in 2022. I am studying all the D.M.V practice test already, and very thankful to have them.
I need a handbook to study but the DMV office is closed. Where can I get one? Thanks.
Best option: download the pdf version online https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/pubs/hdbk/driver_handbook_toc
If you can find a library that is open, they may have hard copies. Otherwise, you just have to wait.
my current extension expires 4/14/2020. with the current pandemic and all dmv field offices closed and not able to call Sacramento DMV until after 4/17/2020, where does that leave me? A
This is the latest information from California DMV (released on April 1): https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/pubs/newsrel/2020/2020_15
You should be able to renew online or by mail. If you are older than 70, your license is automatically extended.
Due to the corona crisis, The DMV has now (April 2020) extended all driver licenses that expire between March and May 2020 and has expanded eligibility to renew online.
UPDATE OCTOBER 2020: Temporary waiver allows licenses for drivers 70 and older to be renewed without an office visit
My birthday is June 4, 1938. Will my license be extended?
All California license holders, including AB 60, under age 70 with a noncommercial driver license expiring between March and May 2020 have an extension through May 31, 2020.Currently, this doesn’t include a noncommercial driver license expiring in June.https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/about/dlextinfoUPDATE OCTOBER 2020: Temporary waiver allows licenses for drivers 70 and older to be renewed without an office visit
Californians age 70 and older with a noncommercial driver’s license are now eligible to renew online or by mail, eliminating the need to visit a California Department of Motor Vehicles office. Licenses with an expiration date between March 1, 2020, throughout the COVID-19 emergency are eligible.
I have been declared medically blind on one eye,can I be allowed to take the vision test and drive?
If you will be allowed to drive or not depends on how well you can see with the other eye. This should tell you what you need to know: Vision Standards (FFDL 14)
I have studied and studied but of course nervous. I have a question that I can’t find an answer for. I have my test on June 4 and my birthday is June 6. If I fail and need to do again, do I need to do the driver’s test again? I have a clean record and need to know what to expect. I am a senior. I live in So. CA. Thank you.
The important question first: DMV will not ask for the behind-the-wheel test when you renew your license just because you fail the knowledge test.
Secondly, the knowledge test for a renewal is usually very easy and has questions that you are probably very familiar with. Most drivers with some experience easily pass this renewal test. So, try not to be nervous about it. Read carefully, but don’t read too much into the questions. There aren’t any trick questions.
With that being said, it is always up to the examiner’s discretion to ask for a practical driving test if there are reasons to believe that you have mental and/or physical condition or an inability to follow California traffic laws. This is rare and almost never comes as a surprise to a test taker.
If I’m out of the country and I can’t renew on time of my license can you still accept even I’m late, how many months or days do you allow. Thanks
California allows you to renew at any time. Process is the same. No late fees.
An in-person DMV visit is required for the new Real ID driver’s license. To board a domestic flight in 2020, you will need a federally-compliant ID, such as a Real ID driver’s license.
If eligible for online renewal , you may be able to apply for the old driver’s license online and replace it at a later point.
Remember, there is no grace period when your license has expired. It is illegal for you to drive until your license is renewed.
on the california test there is a question ?12 about which way to turn wheels when downhill with not curb
The correct answer should be toward the curb or “to the Right” not left which you say is the correct answer
You are correct about the proper way to turn the front wheels when parking downhill.
But there is no question on the California tests suggesting that you should turn them the other way. There are five versions of this question (downhill with or without curb). Correct answers on these questions are “toward the curb”, “toward the side of the road”, “to the right”, or “away from the road”.
Hi Mark, For a renewal license, how many mistakes to pass the test and how many questions for the test.
Thank you.
Normally 18 questions (if already licensed). 15 correct answers to pass.
I would like to know how I can take the oral test
Contact your local DMV office ahead of the test.
I just took my drivers renewal test last August 14,2018 @ ave L6 10 st west in Palmdale/Lancaster I had Roxanne to process my papers to take the written test and Allyssa to take the written test I was so nervous but both employee made feel that it will be ok both of them were so professional they made you at ease ..I thought I will have coronary attack both of them explained to me the computer and written test very well… the line was long coz there are too many who take the test and I understand it….took the written test coz Im not too good in computer Im old …but got 100% in the test and Alyssa made sure that Ihave an extension of my drivers license …both roxane and alyssa are perfect asset in your dept..thank you im waiting for my drivers renewal license..keep up the good work Roxanne and alyssa ..I suggest to the people who is taking the renewal test to study the 2018 booklet and you pass it…thank you..
quwationa 25,26,29 and 30 have nothing to do with the questions
?
I have an appointment for my license renewal, do I have to stand in those 2 hour lines. If so, whats the deal of making an appointment. I live in CA
No you dont wait in line you go ahead right in and say you have an appointment
I am 81 yrs. old and I have too take a drivers test and on Aug. 27 I will 82yrs old, I would like to know what I can do so I don’t have to stand inline for 1 or too two hours. Please help me.
in spanish
The spanish version of the tests is postponed. We don’t have the resources to complete the project just yet.
Is it possible to retake the driving test if my license need to be renew?
If you want to take a test that isn’t required for your renewal, this is usually up to the discretion of the DMV clerk.
This works both ways. A clerk may ask you to take a test that is usually not required, if he or she believes that your ability can be questioned.
Most renewals can be made without any tests. But if you need to visit a DMV office for your renewal, the note will tell you what tests you must take.
Read more: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/about/senior/driverlicense/renewal
Which test I take to renew my license
A renewal test is basically the same test, but with no questions about permit rules & restrictions and with only 18 questions.
I already had a Ohio state license but moved to California a month back, so need to apply for California license. Thanks drivers prep . I cleared my written test for California dmv today with just two mistakes. Practice sample tests were really helpful.
Thank you & drive safely!
I failed DMV written test because half of the questions were not on your practice tests. I think you should update your practice test questions.
You failed your test because you didn’t know and/or understand the facts described in the California Driver Handbook. As simple as that.
Our CA practice tests have more than 1,200 questions. With 8 completed practice tests, you covered less than 15 percent of them.
Can someone please recommend a local driving instructor prior to dmv driving test in Palo Alto, ca.?
Thank You
I wish you would post what the correct answers are. You don’t learn this way
The correct answers are there.
I recommend everyone to start practicing here: https://driversprep.com/dmv-test/california-dmv-practice-test-1/
When done with test 1, continue with Practice Test 2. If you need a break, bookmark the test you want to take next.