🚦2026 California DMV Permit Test

As of January 1, 2026, the DMV has updated its testing bank to reflect new laws on Daylighting, E-bike safety, and Automated Enforcement. Below are the 40 most critical questions you will likely encounter.

🚦 Elite 40: California DMV 2026 Knowledge Test
Section 1: 2026 New Laws & Rules
Q: What is the "Daylighting" law (AB 413) requirement for parking near a crosswalk?

A: You must not park within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk (15 feet if there is a curb extension).

Q: What is the 2026 update to the "Move Over" law (AB 390)?

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

Q: You see turquoise/teal marker lamps on a vehicle's exterior. What does this mean?

A: The vehicle is an Autonomous Vehicle (AV) with its automated driving system currently engaged.

Q: What is the penalty for using a device to obscure or hide a license plate?

A: A fine of up to $1,000.

Q: What are the age/equipment rules for Class 3 E-bikes (up to 28 mph)?

A: Operators must be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet regardless of age.

Q: At what speed will automated speed cameras (AB 645) trigger a citation?

A: When a vehicle is traveling 11 mph or more over the posted limit.

Q: Does a "DUI" apply to prescription medications?

A: Yes, if the drug impairs your ability to drive safely.

Q: How long is the probation period for vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated in 2026?

A: Between 3 and 5 years (increased from 2 years).

Q: When are children under 18 required to wear a helmet on e-bikes?

A: At all times.

Q: What is the 2026 rule for e-bike rear reflectors?

A: E-bikes must have a red rear reflector or light during all hours of operation.

Section 2: Right-of-Way & Intersections
Q: When two vehicles meet on a steep, narrow road, who has the right-of-way?

A: The vehicle traveling uphill. The downhill vehicle must back up.

Q: You are waiting to turn left at an intersection. Which way do you point your wheels?

A: Straight ahead.

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

A: Traffic on the through-road.

Q: What is the speed limit at a "blind" intersection?

A: 15 mph.

Q: Can you turn left on a red light?

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

Q: What is the speed limit in an alleyway?

A: 15 mph.

Q: You reach a four-way stop at the same time as the driver on your right. Who goes first?

A: The driver on the right.

Q: When may you enter an intersection?

A: Only when there is enough space to cross completely without blocking traffic.

Q: When do pedestrians have the right-of-way in an unmarked crosswalk?

A: Always.

Q: What should you do at a flashing red traffic light?

A: Stop completely, then proceed when safe (treat it like a stop sign).

Section 3: Lane Markings & Passing
Q: How many feet can you drive in a "Center Left Turn Lane"?

A: 200 feet.

Q: When can you drive in a bike lane?

A: Only when you are within 200 feet of a turn or entering/leaving a driveway.

Q: What does a solid yellow line next to a broken yellow line mean?

A: You may pass only if the broken line is on your side.

Q: What is the "No-Zone"?

A: The large blind spots around a truck where the driver cannot see you.

Q: When merging onto a freeway, how much signaling time is recommended?

A: At least 5 seconds.

Q: When can you pass a vehicle on the right?

A: Only when there are two or more lanes moving in your direction.

Q: What do double solid white lines mean?

A: Lane changes are prohibited; stay in your lane.

Q: What do double solid yellow lines mean?

A: No passing in either direction.

Q: Can you cross a double solid yellow line to turn into a driveway?

A: Yes.

Q: What should you do if you are being tailgated?

A: Move to the right lane and allow them to pass.

Section 4: Safety, Parking, & Emergency
Q: What does a blue curb mean?

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

Q: What does a white curb mean?

A: Stop only for passengers or mail.

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

A: 500 feet.

Q: Within how many days must you report a collision to the DMV if damage is >$1,000?

A: 10 days.

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

A: Away from the curb (Left).

Q: What should you do if your accelerator sticks?

A: Shift to neutral and apply the brakes.

Q: When are roads most slippery during a rainstorm?

A: During the first few minutes of rain.

Q: Are you allowed to wear headphones while driving?

A: No, you cannot cover both ears.

Q: What is the legal BAC limit for a driver over 21?

A: 0.08%.

Q: What is the legal BAC limit for a driver under 21?

A: 0.01% (Zero Tolerance).

💡 Pro-Tip for 2026
The California DMV has increasingly used Video-based questions for some testing versions. Make sure to watch the official "Rules of the Road" videos on the DMV YouTube channel before your appointment.