2026 California DMV Permit Test,

The official test consists of 46 questions (for minors) or 36 questions (for adults). You need an 83% score to pass.To pass the 2026 California DMV Permit Test, you must adapt to several major legislative shifts. California has recently implemented the "Daylighting" Law (AB 413) and significant updates to E-bike safety and Automated Speed Enforcement.

The official test consists of 46 questions (for minors) or 36 questions (for adults). You need an 83% score to pass.

🚦 California 2026: Top 50 Questions & Answers
New 2026 Law Updates
Q: What is the 2026 "Daylighting" Law?

A: You cannot park within 20 feet of any crosswalk (marked or unmarked) to improve pedestrian visibility.

Q: What are the new 2026 E-bike lighting requirements?

A: All e-bikes must have a red rear reflector or light visible from 500 feet at all times (day and night).

Q: What is the expanded "Move Over" law?

A: You must move over or slow down for any stationary vehicle with flashing hazard lights, not just emergency vehicles.

Q: How does the new 2026 Speed Camera pilot work?

A: In select cities (LA, San Jose, Oakland, etc.), cameras will issue civil fines for going 11 mph over the limit.

Q: What is the penalty for obscuring a license plate (AB 1085)?

A: A fine of up to $1,000 for using covers or coatings that interfere with electronic reading.

Q: What is the updated minimum insurance for property damage (SB 1107)?

A: $15,000 (increased from $5,000 in 2025/2026).

Q: What is the updated minimum insurance for injury/death to one person?

A: $30,000 (increased from $15,000).

Q: Who must use an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) starting in 2026?

A: All DUI offenders, including first-time convictions.

Q: What is the new school zone speed limit in many CA districts?

A: 20 mph (Localities now have the power to lower it from 25 mph).

Q: Can cyclists cross on a "Walk" signal?

A: Yes, cyclists may now follow pedestrian signals even if the traffic light is red.

Rules of the Road & Right-of-Way
Q: When two vehicles meet on a steep, narrow road, who yields?

A: The vehicle facing downhill must yield and backup until the uphill vehicle can pass.

Q: Who has the right-of-way at a "T" intersection?

A: Traffic on the through road.

Q: When can you drive in a bike lane?

A: Only within 200 feet of making a turn.

Q: How many feet must you signal before a turn?

A: At least 100 feet.

Q: What is the speed limit in a "Blind Intersection"?

A: 15 mph.

Q: What does a flashing yellow light mean?

A: Proceed with caution; you do not need to stop, but you must be alert.

Q: What does a flashing red light mean?

A: Stop completely, then proceed when safe (same as a Stop sign).

Q: When should you use your horn?

A: Only to avoid a collision or warn others of a hazard.

Q: Can you turn left on a red light?

A: Only from a one-way street onto another one-way street.

Q: Which lane should you use for slow driving?

A: The right-most lane.

Pavement Markings & Parking
Q: What does a blue curb indicate?

A: Parking for disabled persons/veterans with a valid placard only.

Q: What does a white curb mean?

A: Stop only to pick up/drop off passengers or mail.

Q: What does a yellow curb mean?

A: Stop only to load or unload passengers or freight (stay with the vehicle).

Q: What do double solid yellow lines mean?

A: No passing; you may only cross them to turn into a driveway or make a U-turn.

Q: When parking uphill with a curb, which way do you turn the wheels?

A: Away from the curb (toward the street).

Q: When parking downhill with a curb, which way do you turn the wheels?

A: Toward the curb.

Q: What is the "Two-Way Left Turn Lane"?

A: A lane in the center for left turns; you can only drive in it for 200 feet.

Q: Can you park on a bridge or in a tunnel?

A: No, unless signs specifically permit it.

Q: How far from a fire hydrant must you park?

A: At least 15 feet.

Q: What does a red curb mean?

A: No stopping, standing, or parking at any time.

Safety & Alcohol Laws
Q: What is the legal BAC for drivers 21 and older?

A: 0.08%.

Q: What is the legal BAC for drivers under 21?

A: 0.01% (Zero Tolerance).

Q: How long must you look ahead while driving?

A: 10 to 15 seconds to identify hazards early.

Q: Are you allowed to wear headphones while driving?

A: No, you cannot cover both ears.

Q: Within how many days must you report a collision to the DMV?

A: 10 days if damage exceeds $1,000 or there is any injury/death.

Q: What is "Hydroplaning"?

A: When tires lose contact with the road and ride on a thin film of water.

Q: At what distance must you dim high beams for an oncoming car?

A: 500 feet.

Q: At what distance must you dim high beams when following a car?

A: 300 feet.

39. Q: What should you do if your brakes fail?

A: Shift to a lower gear and pump the brake pedal fast and hard.

Q: What is the "No-Zone"?

A: The blind spots around large trucks (front, back, and both sides).

Miscellaneous & 2026 Tech
Q: What do "Marker Lamps" on an Autonomous Vehicle (AV) mean?

A: They indicate the vehicle is currently operating in self-driving mode.

Q: What is the penalty for "Sideshows" or street racing in 2026?

A: Potential vehicle impoundment and license suspension for up to 6 months.

Q: When can you drive off the paved road to pass?

A: Never.

Q: At a railroad crossing with no gates, what is the speed limit?

A: 15 mph if you cannot see 400 feet in both directions.

Q: How much space should you give a cyclist when passing?

A: You must change lanes if possible; otherwise, at least 3 feet.

Q: What should you do during a "Smog Alert"?

A: Minimize driving to reduce emissions.

Q: When can a child sit in the front seat?

A: At age 8 or when they reach 4'9" tall.

Q: What is "Hand-over-Hand" steering used for?

A: Recovering from a skid or making low-speed turns.

Q: What does a diamond-shaped sign on a truck mean?

A: The vehicle is carrying hazardous materials.

Q: When are roads the most slippery?

A: During the first few minutes of a rainstorm.

Pro Study Tip: The 2026 test focuses heavily on Section 7 (Laws and Rules) and Section 9 (Alcohol and Drugs). Make sure you memorize the new insurance minimums—they are a frequent "trap" question this year!