CALIFORNIA 2026 DMV Written Test: 200 Real Questions, Proven Answers,

Q: What is the "Basic Speed Law"?
A: You may never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit.

Q: At an intersection with no signs, who has the right-of-way?
A: The vehicle that arrives first; if two arrive at once, the vehicle on the right.

Q: What is the legal BAC limit for drivers 21 and older?
A: 0.08%.

Q: When must you yield to a pedestrian in an unmarked crosswalk?
A: At all times.

Q: What does a flashing red light mean?
A: Stop completely, then proceed when it is safe to do so.

Q: How many feet before a turn should you signal?
A: At least 100 feet.

Q: What is the speed limit in a school zone when children are present?
A: 25 mph (unless otherwise posted).

Q: Can you turn right on a red arrow?
A: No, you must stop and wait for a green signal or arrow.

Q: When can you drive in a bike lane?
A: Only when you are within 200 feet of making a right turn.

Q: What is the "3-second rule"?
A: The minimum safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you.

Q: What should you do if your car begins to hydroplane?
A: Ease off the gas pedal; do not hit the brakes.

Q: When must you use your headlights?
A: From 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise.

Q: What does a solid yellow line next to a broken yellow line mean?
A: Passing is only allowed for the side with the broken line.

Q: How far away should you stop from a school bus with flashing red lights?
A: At least 20 feet.

Q: What is the speed limit in a blind intersection?
A: 15 mph.

Q: What color are construction signs?
A: Orange.

Q: What does a "No Standing" sign mean?
A: You can stop to drop off or pick up passengers, but you cannot park.

Q: When should you use your high beams?
A: In open country or dark city streets, as long as it is not raining/foggy and no cars are approaching.

Q: How many days do you have to notify the DMV if you sell your car?
A: 5 days.

Q: What is the purpose of a "Space Cushion"?
A: To give you time to react to unexpected maneuvers by other drivers.

Q: If you are under 21, what is the Zero Tolerance BAC limit?
A: 0.01%.

Q: What shape is a "Yield" sign?
A: An inverted triangle.

Q: When are roads most slippery?
A: During the first few minutes of a rainstorm after a dry spell.

Q: What does a flashing yellow light mean?
A: Proceed with caution; you do not need to stop.

Q: Which lane is considered the "fast lane"?
A: The left-most lane (Lane 1).

Q: What is the proper hand signal for a left turn?
A: Left arm extended straight out.

Q: What is the proper hand signal for a right turn?
A: Left arm bent upward at a 90-degree angle.

Q: What is the proper hand signal for slowing or stopping?
A: Left arm bent downward at a 90-degree angle.

Q: A pentagon-shaped sign indicates what?
A: A school zone or school crossing.

Q: What should you do if your brakes fail?
A: Pump the brake pedal rapidly and shift to a lower gear.

Q: When should you use your low beams?
A: In fog, rain, or snow to reduce glare.

Q: How much is the fine for smoking in a car with a minor?
A: Up to $100.

Q: If you miss your exit on a freeway, what should you do?
A: Continue to the next exit; never back up on a freeway.

Q: What is "Implied Consent"?
A: You agree to a chemical test for alcohol/drugs just by driving in the state.

Q: How far back should you stay from an emergency vehicle with sirens?
A: At least 500 feet.

Q: What do double solid white lines mean?
A: Lane changes are prohibited.

Q: When parking uphill with a curb, which way do you turn your wheels?
A: Away from the curb (Left).

Q: When parking downhill with a curb, which way do you turn your wheels?
A: Toward the curb (Right).

Q: What is the speed limit in an alley?
A: 15 mph.

Q: When you see "Move Over" lights on a stationary vehicle, you must:
A: Change lanes away from the vehicle or slow down significantly.

Q: A diamond-shaped sign is what?
A: A warning sign.

Q: What does a flashing yellow arrow mean?
A: Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, then turn.

Q: How many days do you have to notify the DMV of an address change?
A: 10 days.

Q: Can you park in a space with a blue curb?
A: Only if you have a disabled placard or specialized license plate.

Q: What should you do if a tire blows out?
A: Hold the steering wheel tightly and ease off the gas; do not brake hard.

Q: What is the BAC limit for commercial drivers?
A: 0.04%.

Q: When can you cross a double solid yellow line?
A: Only to turn left into a driveway or private road.

Q: What is the safe following distance for motorcycles?
A: 4 seconds or more.

Q: What does a "Roundabout" sign look like?
A: A circular symbol with three arrows.

Q: What should you do at a railroad crossing with no gates?
A: Slow down, look both ways, and listen for a train.

Q: Can you use a handheld cell phone while driving?
A: No, only hands-free devices are permitted for drivers 18+.

Q: What is the speed limit on a standard two-lane undivided highway?
A: 55 mph (unless otherwise posted).

Q: Where are your blind spots located?
A: At the left and right rear corners of your vehicle.

Q: What should you do if you are being tailgated?
A: Change lanes to the right or slow down to encourage the driver to pass.

Q: A "No U-Turn" sign means:
A: You cannot turn your vehicle around to go in the opposite direction.

Q: What is "Defensive Driving"?
A: Constant awareness of surroundings and anticipating the mistakes of others.

Q: When can you pass a car on the right?
A: If the driver is turning left and there is an available lane/pavement.

Q: What color is a "Yield" sign's border?
A: Red.

Q: If you hit a parked car and cannot find the owner, what must you do?
A: Leave a note with your contact info and report the accident to police.

Q: When turning left, which lane should you finish in?
A: The lane closest to the center or the one designated by arrows.

Q: What is a "Blind Intersection"?
A: An intersection where you cannot see 100 feet in either direction.

Q: When is it legal to use a car horn?
A: To avoid a collision or warn others of a hazard.

Q: What is a "Turnout" lane used for?
A: To allow faster vehicles to pass when you are driving slowly.

Q: What does a white painted curb mean?
A: Loading/unloading passengers or mail only.

Q: What does a green painted curb mean?
A: Park for a limited time (time is usually posted on sign/curb).

Q: What is a "Sharrow" marking?
A: A symbol indicating a lane is shared by cars and bicycles.

Q: What should you do if an oncoming vehicle has high beams on?
A: Look toward the right edge of your lane to avoid being blinded.

Q: Can you wear headsets or earplugs in both ears while driving?
A: No, it is illegal.

Q: What is the penalty for littering on the roadside?
A: A fine of $1,000 and mandatory roadside trash pickup.

Q: When must you dim your high beams for an oncoming car?
A: Within 500 feet.

Q: When must you dim your high beams when following a car?
A: Within 300 feet.

Q: What does a yellow diamond sign with a "T" mean?
A: The road you are on ends; you must turn left or right.

Q: Is it legal to leave a child 6 or younger in a hot car?
A: No, it is dangerous and illegal.

Q: What is the "Merge" sign's symbol?
A: One straight arrow and one curved arrow meeting.

Q: If your gas pedal sticks, what should you do?
A: Shift to neutral and apply the brakes.

Q: What is a "Litter" sign's purpose?
A: To warn drivers of heavy fines for throwing trash.

Q: Can you cross a single solid white line?
A: Yes, but only when it is safe and necessary.

Q: What does a crossbuck sign indicate?
A: A railroad crossing.

Q: What is the legal limit for THC (marijuana) while driving?
A: Any amount that impairs your ability to drive safely (Zero Tolerance in many states).

Q: When should you check your rearview mirror?
A: Every 2–5 seconds and before any maneuver.

Q: If you have a green light but traffic is blocking the intersection:
A: Wait until the intersection is clear before entering.

Q: Large trucks have "No Zones"—what are they?
A: Large blind spots where the truck driver cannot see you.

Q: When driving behind a large truck, you should:
A: Stay far enough back so you can see the driver’s side mirrors.

Q: How should you enter a freeway?
A: Speed up on the ramp to match the flow of traffic.

Q: What is a "Chevron" sign?
A: A sign indicating a sharp curve in the direction of the arrow.

Q: Can you park on a bridge?
A: No, unless permitted by signs.

Q: What is "Rubbernecking"?
A: Slowing down to look at accidents, which causes traffic congestion.

Q: What does a "Soft Shoulder" sign mean?
A: The dirt on the side of the road is soft; do not drive on it.

Q: When is it safe to return to your lane after passing a car?
A: When you can see both of their headlights in your rearview mirror.

Q: If you are 16, can you drive with a minor passenger?
A: Not for the first 12 months, unless accompanied by a licensed adult 25+.

Q: What color are informational signs for hospitals?
A: Blue.

Q: What is "Scan the Road"?
A: Looking 10–15 seconds ahead of your vehicle.

Q: When can you make a U-turn in a residential district?
A: If no vehicles are approaching within 200 feet.

Q: What should you do if you start to feel sleepy while driving?
A: Pull over and rest or change drivers.

Q: Can you park in an unmarked crosswalk?
A: No.

Q: What is the "Point System"?
A: A method for the DMV to track your driving record and violations.

Q: If you are involved in a crash with $1,000+ in damage, you must:
A: Report it to the DMV within 10 days.

Q: What is a "Divided Highway" sign?
A: A sign with two arrows pointing in opposite directions with a median symbol at the top.

Q: How should you react to a "Merge" sign?
A: Adjust your speed to allow vehicles to enter the lane safely.

Q: What is a "Dead End" sign?
A: A sign indicating the road does not continue.

Q: What is the maximum speed limit on most rural freeways?
A: 65 or 70 mph (check local state laws).

Q: Should you use cruise control on wet roads?
A: No, it increases the risk of losing control.

Q: What does a "Slippery When Wet" sign look like?
A: A car with swerving tire marks.

Q: When can you legally drive over the speed limit?
A: Never.

Q: What does a "One Way" sign indicate?
A: Traffic only moves in the direction of the arrow.

Q: What is the proper way to use an ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)?
A: Firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal; do not pump.

Q: What does a "Dip" sign mean?
A: There is a low place in the road; slow down.

Q: Can you cross a double solid yellow line to pass another car?
A: No.

Q: What is the "No Zone" for a truck?
A: Directly behind, directly in front, and the sides.

Q: If you are stopped by police, where should you keep your hands?
A: On the steering wheel where the officer can see them.

Q: What is a "Yield to Pedestrians" sign?
A: A regulatory sign reminding drivers to stop for people in crosswalks.

Q: Can you change lanes in the middle of an intersection?
A: No, it is unsafe and usually illegal.

Q: What does a "Bicycle Crossing" sign look like?
A: A yellow diamond with a bicycle symbol.

Q: What should you do if your engine overheats?
A: Pull over and turn off the engine; do not open the radiator cap.

Q: What is "Tailgating"?
A: Following a vehicle too closely.

Q: What color are regulatory signs?
A: White and Black.

Q: What color are warning signs?
A: Yellow or Fluorescent Yellow-Green.

Q: What does a "Keep Right" sign mean?
A: Stay to the right of a median or obstruction.

Q: What is a "Blind Spot Monitor"?
A: A vehicle sensor that alerts you to cars in your blind spot.

Q: When can you use the "Carpool" (HOV) lane?
A: When you have the minimum number of people in the car or a qualifying low-emission vehicle.

Q: What is the "End Divided Highway" sign?
A: Two arrows with a median symbol at the bottom.

Q: If you are turning left and there is a pedestrian in the crosswalk:
A: You must yield and wait for them to finish crossing.

Q: What is the speed limit in a business district?
A: 25 mph.

Q: What does a "Two-Way Traffic" sign look like?
A: Two arrows pointing in opposite directions (up and down).

Q: Should you stop for a school bus on a divided highway with a 5ft median?
A: No, only vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop.

Q: What is the safest way to exit a roundabout?
A: Use your right turn signal before exiting.

Q: What is "Lane Splitting"?
A: A motorcycle driving between rows of stopped/moving cars (Legal in some states, like CA).

Q: What is a "Do Not Pass" sign?
A: A regulatory sign indicating passing is dangerous and illegal.

Q: What color are signs for motorist services (gas, food, lodging)?
A: Blue.

Q: What does a "Narrow Bridge" sign look like?
A: A yellow diamond with a road symbol that pinches in the middle.

Q: Can you make a U-turn on a one-way street?
A: No.

Q: When should you adjust your seat and mirrors?
A: Before you start the engine.

Q: What is "Velocitation"?
A: Feeling like you are going slower than you actually are after driving on a freeway.

Q: What does a "Winding Road" sign mean?
A: There are three or more curves ahead.

Q: When can you legally block an intersection?
A: Never.

Q: What is a "Shared Turn Lane"?
A: A center lane used for left turns by traffic from both directions.

Q: What does a yellow light mean?
A: The light is about to turn red; stop if you can do so safely.

Q: How many feet of space must you give a bicyclist when passing?
A: 3 feet.

Q: What should you do if your vehicle breaks down on the freeway?
A: Pull to the right shoulder, turn on hazards, and stay in the car.

Q: What does a "No Parking" sign mean?
A: You cannot park your car there at any time.

Q: What is a "Ramp Meter"?
A: A signal light on a freeway entrance to control traffic flow.

Q: What color are guidance signs?
A: Green.

Q: What does a "Hill" sign mean?
A: A steep downgrade is ahead; check your brakes.

Q: What is "Aggressive Driving"?
A: Running red lights, tailgating, and weaving through traffic.

Q: What is the "Blind Spot" of a mirror?
A: The area not visible in the mirror.

Q: Can you park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant?
A: No.

Q: What is the speed limit in a residential area?
A: 25 mph.

Q: What does a "Pedestrian Crossing" sign look like?
A: A yellow diamond with a person walking.

Q: What should you do if you are being passed?
A: Maintain your speed or slow down slightly.

Q: What is "Defensive Driving"?
A: Thinking ahead and anticipating hazards.

Q: Can you double park?
A: No, it is illegal and blocks traffic.

Q: What is the penalty for a hit-and-run?
A: Jail time and heavy fines.

Q: What does a "Stop Ahead" sign mean?
A: Be prepared to stop at an upcoming sign.

Q: What is "Highway Hypnosis"?
A: A trance-like state from driving for long periods.

Q: What should you do if an animal runs into the road?
A: Do not swerve; brake firmly.

Q: What does a "Low Clearance" sign mean?
A: The bridge or overpass is too low for tall vehicles.

Q: Can you use your hazard lights while moving?
A: Usually only to warn of an immediate danger or a very slow-moving car.

Q: What is the "Move Over" law?
A: A law requiring drivers to move over for emergency vehicles with flashing lights.

Q: What is a "Junction" sign?
A: A sign showing where two or more roads meet.

Q: When must you yield to an city bus?
A: When it is re-entering traffic from a bus stop.

Q: What is "Total Stopping Distance"?
A: Perception distance + Reaction distance + Braking distance.

Q: What does a "No Outlet" sign mean?
A: The road is a dead end.

Q: Can you park in a tunnel?
A: No.

Q: What is "Tailgating"?
A: Following too close.

Q: What color is a "Slow Moving Vehicle" sign?
A: Orange and red reflective triangle.

Q: What should you do in a dust storm?
A: Pull off the road, turn off all lights, and take your foot off the brake.

Q: What is the "Reaction Time"?
A: The time it takes to see a hazard and step on the brake.

Q: What does a "Shoulder Work" sign mean?
A: Men or machines are working on the side of the road.

Q: What is the "Curb Weight"?
A: The weight of the car with no passengers or cargo.

Q: What is a "Flagger"?
A: A construction worker directing traffic.

Q: What does "Yield" mean?
A: Slow down and be ready to stop for others.

Q: Can you drive with only parking lights on?
A: No, you must use headlights.

Q: What is "Blind Spot Awareness"?
A: Knowing where other cars are hidden from your mirrors.

Q: What does a "Deer Crossing" sign look like?
A: A yellow diamond with a deer symbol.

Q: What is the "Point of No Return"?
A: The point at an intersection where you can no longer stop safely before the light turns red.

Q: What does a "Truck Route" sign mean?
A: Designated road for heavy trucks.

Q: Can you cross a solid white line at an intersection?
A: It is discouraged but not always illegal; stay in your lane for safety.

Q: What is "Overdriving your Headlights"?
A: Driving so fast you cannot stop within the distance your lights illuminate.

Q: What does a "Do Not Enter" sign mean?
A: You are going the wrong way.

Q: When should you use your emergency brake?
A: Every time you park.

Q: What is "Distracted Driving"?
A: Anything that takes your eyes or mind off the road.

Q: What does a "No Turn on Red" sign mean?
A: You must wait for the green light to turn.

Q: What is "Road Rage"?
A: Violent or angry behavior by a driver.

Q: Can you pass a vehicle in a curve?
A: No, because you cannot see far enough ahead.

Q: What does a "Divided Highway Ends" sign mean?
A: The road becomes a two-way street again.

Q: What is "Aquaplaning"?
A: Same as hydroplaning (sliding on water).

Q: What does a "One Way" sign look like?
A: A rectangular sign with an arrow.

Q: Can you drive in the center left-turn lane for more than 200 feet?
A: No.

Q: What is "Brake Fade"?
A: Loss of brake power due to overheating.

Q: What does a "Hospital" sign look like?
A: A blue square with a white "H".

Q: What is the "Blind Spot" for a car?
A: The area you can't see with mirrors.

Q: What does a "Merge" sign look like?
A: A yellow diamond with two lines joining.

Q: Can you use your phone for GPS if it's mounted?
A: Yes.

Q: What is a "Speed Hump"?
A: A raised area in the road to slow down traffic.

Q: What does a "School Crossing" sign look like?
A: A yellow-green pentagon with two people walking.

Q: What is "Impaired Driving"?
A: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Q: What does a "Handicap Parking" sign mean?
A: Only for people with a valid placard.

Q: What is "Tire Tread"?
A: The pattern on the tire that provides grip.

Q: What does a "Detour" sign look like?
A: An orange rectangle with an arrow.

Q: What is the best way to avoid a collision?
A: Stay alert, scan the road, and keep a safe following distance.